23 Aug 20 Friendly – NSFC U16s 1-2 North Shields U16sNorth Sunderland played their first pre-season friendly against North Shields on the immaculate Seafield Park pitch and lost by the odd goal in a very even, entertaining game. The first half was mostly a midfield battle as both sides struggled to create any clear cut chances. Rory Davidson did break the offside trap but his effort drifted just wide and at the other end James Southwood comfortably dealt with a number of long range efforts. The home side broke the deadlock following an almighty scramble from a Tom Storey corner, a number of North Sunderland players could have scored before debutant Liam Douglas hooked in. It was soon 1-1 when another long range N Shields strike found corner of the net. The home side changed formation to 3-5-2 in the second half and settled well into this system. The excellent central 3 of Findlay Cross, Will Griffiths and Liam Douglas controlled the game and were assisted by impressive wing back play from Charlie Elliot, Tom Storey and Robbie Swordy. The tidy approach play threatened goals but the killer pass did not happen and the home side were punished when N Shields pounced on a loose ball to make it 2-1 with minutes remaining. A good run out for the U16s who did not look out of place against a side from the division above. All players contributed to a good team performance, the stand out players being Zach Watson, Liam Douglas and man of the match Charlie Elliot who had a fine game at wing back. The match was well controlled by Mick Hornsby. The U16s have a friendly away to Morpeth this Sunday before their first league fixture on 6th September at home to newly promoted Forest Hall. Team: James Southwood, Jack Heston, Sam Hall, James Wright, Zach Watson, Charlie Elliot, Tom Storey, Liam Douglas, Will Griffiths, Findlay Cross, Rory Davidson, Jos Wilson, Robbie Swordy.174People reached17EngagementsBoost post

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