Due to both Bishop Auckland and West Auckland being exempt from the opening rounds of this season’s FA Vase, the away Auckland derby, at The Wanted Stadium, has been brought forward by a considerable period, possibly to aid with fixture congestion/cup final preparation (makes logical sense).
Originally scheduled for 18 April 2020, the game will now be played in late August, the Two Blues now making the short trip to oppose their neighbours on Saturday 31 August 2019, kick-off at 3pm.
Bishop Auckland are one of 35 sides exempt until the First Round Proper, to be played on 12 October, and West Auckland are one of a further 26 sides who are exempt until the Second Round Proper (along with Hebburn Town, Newcastle Benfield and Sunderland RCA), taking place on 2 November – this is down to the top four finish we had in the league last season and having not been promoted (Consett are also exempt until the First Round).
Now as the return fixture, Bishop Auckland will welcome West Auckland to Heritage Park on Saturday 23 November and the last game of the season will be at home to Consett on Saturday 11 April.
