Soaring Robins in flight again; SKILLTRAININGLTD NORTHERN LEAGUE

Evening Chronicle (Newcastle, England), Sept 26, 2008

Byline: By MALCOLM PRATT

NORTH Shields are confident they can go from strength to strength after putting a poor start to the season behind them.

The Robins' first five games produced just a single point, but they have taken seven from the last three matches to move into mid-table in the Second Division.

"We haven't conceded a goal in three matches and we feel we have several positives to take forward," said joint manager Paul Hogg.

"We are much more resilient now and are looking forward to tomorrow's game with Horden CW at Welfare Park.

"They made a number of high-profile signings during the close season but are just a point ahead of us."

Former Consett player Scott McDonald and Paul Gibbs, previously with West Allotment Celtic, have moved to Ralph Gardner Park, and this week Dean Nicholson made the switch from Dunston Federation.

Another boost for Hogg is the return from Prudhoe Town of former captain Nicky Evans, who is enjoying his third spell with the club.

Martin Lamb, who missed the early games, is now having an influence on the defence, where his experience is proving invaluable. Lamb has made 376 appearances for the Robins.

Hogg also welcomes the return of goalkeeper David Lanning and Stuart Heppell tomorrow, but former Gateshead and Hartlepool player Colin McKenzie is injured and Scott McDonald is suspended.

BIRTLEY Town's Second Division game has been transferred to Stokesley SC because contaminated water has flooded the Birtley Sports Complex.

"Until we find out what has caused the problem we'll have to reverse our fixtures," said secretary Trevor Armstrong.

Prudhoe Town are another side on their travels. They have agreed to switch their match with Marske United to Marske at the request of the Seasiders.

"Apparently, they have a function tomorrow night and wanted to be on hand rather than have to travel home from our place," said secretary Chris Lowther.

CAPTION(S):

POSITIVE: Hogg