Around the grounds with yesterday’s friendly action
SUMMER signing Alex Kempster struck twice as South Shields eased to a comfortable victory at Marske.
Former York City striker Kempster scored two beauties after the break as Shields finally hit their straps.
A tepid and goalless first half was followed by an all-action second period that brought five goals.
Connor Smith was booked for challenge on Kempster that would have seen the front man in on goal.
Lewis Maloney’s long range free-kick on 45 minutes Marske’s only threat on goal in the first half.
The tempo was much better on the resumption, Shields ahead five minutes in as Josh Gillies’ inswinging corner sneaked in at the near post.
Marske were soon level after a Gary Brown on Louis Johnson was punished by Craig Gott’s well-taken spot kick.
A howler from Mariners keeper Myles Boney almost gifted the Seasiders the lead but Lewis Maloney fired wastefully over.
A home corner then struck the bar – but that’s as good as it got for the hosts at a blustery Mount Pleasant. Shields made their extra quality count in the final half hour to run in three more goals.
Kempster took a crossfield ball from Gillies to fire into the bottom corner from 20-yards.
After good control Kempster’s clever lob then just cleared the bar with keeper Ryan Catterick stranded.
Not to denied Kempster was in again when he took Jason Gilchrist’s lay-off to again find the bottom corner.
Jordan Hunter and Rob Briggs then combined for Gilchrist to slot home late on after rounding the keeper.
STAR MAN: Alex Kempster
(South Shields) ENTERTAINMENT: ★★★★★