THE game brought together two old pals - Bishop Auckland manager Alan Shoulder and United's reserve team coach Tommy Craig, who first teamed up at Carlisle United back in 1983.

Both have worn Newcastle's famous black and white shirts, although never at the same time.

Former defender Tommy was happy to bring some of the Magpies' star players to one of the most famous non-league grounds in the country and answer Alan's call for help in raising enough cash to pay the day to day costs of running the Bishop Auckland Club until the end of the season.

He said: "Having played in the North-East I know how important non-league football is and always has been to people in the region.

"I was more than delighted to come and hopefully it will help the club both financially and in terms of prestige."