NEWCASTLE'S development side reached the final of the Northumberland FA Senior Cup as they secured a 1-0 win over Whitley Bay at Hillheads.

Rolando Aarons scored the only goal of the game as a second-string side captained by first teamer Gael Bigirimana edged out their Northern League opponents.

Jamaica-born Aarons, who travelled to Fulham last weekend as part of Newcastle's first-team party but did not make the matchday squad, struck with six minutes remaining to prevent the semi-final tie going into extra-time.

The youngster carried the ball across the edge of the box before drilling home a crisp left-footed strike.

The other semi-final tie takes place tomorrow, with cup holders Ashington facing Blyth Spartans.

Newcastle: Mitchell, Sterry, Williams, Bigirimana, Streete, Satka, Richardson, Miele (Kemen 44), Gilliead (Quinn 71), Roberts, Aarons.