North expect tough fight in derby decider
UNDER-18S FOOTBALL
NORTHUMBERLAND FA Under18s’ manager Alan Thompson is not underestimating rivals Durham after their 2-2 draw against West Riding - a team North beat earlier in the season at Whitley Park, writes DAN SIMMONITE.
He said: “It is every game as it comes and we have a tough one against Durham where it is a winner-takes-all situation.
“Their draw was a shock result but we will prepare the same - we will go out expecting a tough game and I am sure they will as well.”
The top-of-the-table battle is staged next Saturday at Durham’s Chester-le-Street headquarters (2.00) - with the winners earning themselves a first-place finish in the Association of Northern Counties East Division.
North sit in second - but only on goal difference - and are level on points with their North East counterparts after a four-game unbeaten start to the season.
Lincolnshire are hot on North’s heels - but the Tynesiders only require a point to guarantee their progression to the next stage of the competition.
Speaking about North’s recent victory over North Riding, Thompson added: “The lads were excellent and did exactly what we asked by getting on the front foot.
“We hit the bar three times in the first 10 or 15 minutes and when Sam Dibb-Fuller went through for his goal the first thing I said was I was glad he did not hit the bar.”
Many of the regular first-team squad were away for the fixture which meant Adam Orarbay was given a call-up to the starting 11 alongside 16-year-old Josh Wilson, who started between the sticks to replace the injured Liam Renwick.
Thompson praised those who stepped up, suggesting the depth of the county team is very strong and competition for places is high ahead of the final fixture of the regular season.
He said: “Three players were missing after being called up by Carlisle United Development and it could have been a worry.
“However, we brought in young Adam for his debut and he was outstanding.
“We have to see about knocks and form but no player did themselves any harm in terms of future squad selection.” COACHING sessions for young footballers begin next month at Consett Leisure Centre.
The Get Into Football courses will run every Saturday from March 2 to April 6 for ages four to 12.
Places on a course, priced at £21 per child, must be booked in advance by contacting the leisure centre, in person or by ringing 03000 262 499.
■■THE ChronicleLive Under-19 Cup final will be staged on Wednesday, May 1 at Newcastle University’s