Lots of work for Thompson to do after United’s heavy defeat in cup

Washington United manager Cameron Thompson believes his side “have a long way to go” after they suffered a heavy defeat in their Alan Hood Charity Cup tie at Horden CW in midweek.

The Nissan Sports Complex club fell to an 8-1 defeat against Jonathan Payne’s side on Wednesday night and will hopetomoveonquicklywhen they host Chester-le-Street United in their latest Group

Two game on Saturday.

Thompson is keeping a calm frame of mind despite watching his players fall to their heaviest defeat since they joined the Wearside League last summer.

“The lads aren’t distraught after Wednesday night,” he explained.

“We are on a journey and where we are right now is not our final destination.

“We have a long way to go.

“We are improving and we are learning a lot about ourselves.

“Implementing a style of play is not an overnight thing, it takes hours of games and sessions.

“We will get there and when we do it will be a great feeling.”

Thompson’s ranks have been swelled ahead of Saturday’s game as Jordan Lee, Taylor Mason and Curtis

Richardson all return to contention.

Elsewhere in Group Two, Silksworth CW are without the trio of Josh Perry, Joe Jones and Josh Winthrop for their home game against Durham Corinthians and Horden look to build on that big win against Washington United when they visit Richmond Town.

Boldon CA have a number of selection issues ahead of their Group Two trip to Darlington RA.

David Crumbie will be without defender Sam Attewell and striker Frankie Hucks as his side prepare to take on the former Northern League club.

Andy Hunter and Aaron Williams will also face fitness tests ahead of the trip to Brinkburn Road.

Meanwhile, FC Hartlepool have been handed a major boost ahead of their home game against West Auckland Tunns.

Manager Terry Hill has confirmed that he expects Luke Naylor, Robbie Hammond, Ash Clark and Jack Dennis all to return to the fold and to be in contention for the game.

Annfield Plain face Norton and Stockton Ancients in the third Group Two fixture to take place this weekend.