Town’s squad has been transformed in the last two months with 20 new arrivals, including six returnees. There is fresh energy and ambition at the club – and no shortage of talent.

The visitors’ quality shone through when they took the lead on 27 minutes. James Coatsworth played a delicious cross-field pass to find Dale Hopson in space in front of goal, and the player-coach showed excellent control before converting past exposed ‘keeper Adam Cameron.

They had chances to extend their lead during an impressive first-half display. Harry Healy was a constant menace to the home defence and Leo Myers was unlucky not to score when set up by the former Billingham Synthonia player.

Bay’s best chance came after six minutes when a Kierin Alpin free-kick skimmed the top of the bar but they were second best until a half-time regroup. They equalised with a debut goal from Lennox Magalhaes after 53 minutes.

The forward volleyed an unstoppable shot past Oli Swan after a Mikel Thompson shot was chested down by Mackenzie Sharpe.

They took the lead four minutes later after skipper Michael Scott headed in a corner by Jamie Clarke. Last year’s Northallerton team might have folded at that point but new-look Town proved they are more resilient.

Liam Darville was narrowly wide with a long-range shot before Hopson turned supplier shortly before the final whistle. His sweetly-judged cross met the forehead of an on-rushing Healy for the equaliser in front of a large contingent of travelling supporters.

Whitley Bay: Cameron, Stewart (Christie 80), Aplin, Forster (Jensen 65), Scott, McNicol, Nkunku (Livermore 83), Magalhaes, Sharpe, Thompson, Clarke.

Subs not used: McCarthy, Achuo.

Northallerton Town: Swan, Coatsworth (Bramley 64), Myers, Tomlinson, Darville, Allen, Boucher, Sartini, Healy, Hopson, Martin (Townsend 64).

Subs not used: Kitching, Poole, Fairless.

Att: 324.