A lively evening at the MAP Group UK Stadium saw Stockton Town beat Bishop Auckland in another pre-season matchup.
Jake Petitjean was given the nod from the start, with Jamie Bramwell starting on the bench as the pair return from knocks.
After a quick start, the Anchors struck first. Amar Purewal played a smart flick-on into Kevin Hayes’ run, who confidently flicked the ball past Alfie Gordon to give Stockton a 1–0 lead inside the opening 10 minutes.
In the 22nd minute, Arjun Purewal rose high to meet a cross with a determined header, only to see his effort saved – a moment that still seemed to further lift the energy and confidence of the squad.
Cameron Painter had a standout moment in the 26th minute, regaining possession high up the pitch, and launching a long-range effort that required another quick save from Gordon.
Stockton continued to dominate the half with energetic, attacking play, heading into the break with a deserved 1–0 lead.
Half-time: Stockton Town 1-0 Bishop Auckland
The second half resumed with Stockton showing no signs of letting up. Owen Gallagher showed excellent control in midfield, setting up Kev Hayes, who slid in with a determined effort, but just fired too high.
The Anchors finally broke through again not long after. Kev Hayes delivered a precise free-kick, which found the head of Jamie Bramwell, who calmly found the bottom corner to make it 2–0.
Despite a few late pushes from Bishop Auckland, and late opportunity inside the box from Lewis King, Stockton held firm for a pre-season victory.
Full-time: Stockton Town 2–0 Bishop Auckland
A composed and confident performance from Stockton, who controlled much of the game and secured a solid victory in front of their home crowd. The Anchors are at home again on Saturday at 1pm, as Scarborough Athletic visit the MAP Group UK Stadium.
Words: Elle-Mai Keightley
Photo: Jordan Clarke
