FA confirm Vase Final date as Hebburn's Wembley dreams remain alive

Thursday afternoon brought confirmation that the Hornets’ semi-final against Southern Counties East League club Corinthian FC will now be a one-legged tie and the FA will hold a draw on Thursday to decide which of the two sides will be at home as they compete for a place at the National Stadium.

However, regardless of the venue, the two clubs have now agreed that the game will take place on Saturday 5th September and that means that Hebburn’s Northern League Division One season opener at Newton Aycliffe will be moved to a later date.

Should the Hornets progress, they will walk out at Wembley in the final on Sunday 27th September to face either Northern League rivals Consett or Western League club Bitton.

Hornets boss Bolam believes that the decision is great news for the local area as his side look to add their name to a growing list of Northern League clubs to have reached a Vase final.

“The rumours have been going for a while that the FA want to get the final played,” he explained.

“You do fear the worst, especially with how long it’s been going on.

“It made you wonder, but it’s fantastic for the club, for the area and for the people of the North East.

“There’s a big test ahead for us and we have done everything to make sure that we are ready for the semi-final.

“We have had the right level of opponents in pre-season, we have done everything that we possibly can to make sure we can be in the best shape possible.

“Whatever happens, home or away, we will have a good go and we look forward to it.”

The four semi-finalists are working with the Football Association to discuss player eligibility and what level of crowd will be allowed to attend the semi-final and final.