Match report 

Chester-le-Street Town started the defence of this seasons Ernest Armstrong Cup the cup they won last season and beat  Brandon 5-4 . Chester took the lead after 10 minutes when Daniel Candlish broke into the area on the left and fired a shot past the keeper which came off the far post but Harry Whisker was quickest to react and fired into the empty net. Chester doubled their lead after 28 minutes when Kieran Megran played a corner from the left to the far post for Alexander Walker to head in. Chester extended their lead after 41 minutes when Megran played another corner in from the left and Danny Hepplewhite to score. Thornaby hit back immediately when Sam Joyce pulled a goal back. After 49 minutes, Candlish raced into  the area, went past three defenders to fire in the fourth goal. Some poor defending after 55 minutes let in Lee Blades and although Scott Pocklington blocked his first shot, Blades fired in the rebound. Chester restored their three goal advantage after 58 minutes when Michael Hepplewhite moved down the right and hit a low cross into the middle for Scott Robson to turn in from close range. After 69 minutes, Brandon made a quick break and when the ball was played through to Jordan Lee on the edge of the area he fired a great shot into the top corner of the net. More pressure from Brandon led to them reducing the deficit after 76 minutes when Luke Bailey scored.

Team: Scott Pocklington, Connor Lyon, Jai Grant, Joe Grant, Alexander Walker, Danny Hepplewhite, Joseph Hailes, (Michael Hepplewhite, 15 mins), Kieran Megran (Christopher Stephenson, 64 mins), Harry Whisker, Jack Oliver (Scott Robson, 45 mins), Daniel Candlish. Subs Not Used : Craig Marron, Rhys Turnbull.

Attendance: 110

Match Officials: Mr. Michael Studholme, Penrith, Mr. Ovi Caraiman, Washington & Mr. Mark Katoroz, Spennymoor