Sunderland pegged back twice in U18 derby draw

Newcastle and Sunderland played out a thoroughly entertaining 2-2 draw in the Under-18 Premier League yesterday, writes David Pilkington.

Sunderland, buoyed by their weekend win over Liverpool, started brightly, pressing forward in the opening minute, but Jack Diamond’s cross was easily cleared.

The Magpies instantly responded, pushing forward with Ben Kitchen cruising down the right to swing a deep cross in which was comfortably collected by keeper Michael Woud.

The visitors drew first blood when Chris Allan fed the ball through to Lee Connelly, in the 16th minute, for the striker to hit a fierce strike which left home keeper Ben Smith no chance.

The hosts quickly responded, with Craig Spooner twisting and turning on the edge of the area, but Woud was quick to respond, blocking the attempt on goal.

The hosts managed to equalise on 32 minutes, when Kitchen crossed and Kelland Watts sent a looping header over Woud.

From then on, the game got more physical, with both teams going in with crunching tackles. The visitors finished the first half looking stronger, and deservedly regained the lead in the 43rd minute, with Oscar Krusnell playing in Connolly to coolly slot home his and Sunderland’s second goal.

The young Magpies threw everything at Sunderland in the second half, forcing Woud to make some outstanding saves, denying Sangare, Watts and Callum Smith in quick succession.

However, Newcastle finally did beat Woud for the equaliser on 65 minutes. Following a goalmouth scramble, the ball fell to Wilson to drive through a sea of legs.

Sunderland coach Mark Atkinson said: “I was really pleased with the performance from the lads. Two great goals from Lee (Connelly).

“We were on the back foot a little in the second half for about the first 20-25 minutes, but, as the game went on, we grew in character. We are now two games unbeaten and the confidence is showing. Michael (Woud) made some tremendous saves.”