Easington Lane Reserves 3 Darlington FC U23s 1

The U23s bowed out of the Washington Aged Trophy in another game in which they should have come away with something from the match.

They started brightly, and for the opening period it was an even game. However, Easington were awarded a penalty after a ball was smashed at Bending, with the referee deciding that it had struck his hand. Easington converted from the spot to take a 1–0 lead into half-time.

They made a couple of changes at the break, and the U23s came out flying. They dominated the first 20 minutes of the second half and deservedly got themselves back on level terms. Smith broke down the right-hand side and delivered an inch-perfect cross for Mortimer to head home from five yards.

Unfortunately, within five minutes of getting back on level terms, they conceded another penalty. Stokoe pulled an Easington player back inside the box and the referee again pointed to the spot. Easington converted to regain the lead.

The U23s pushed forward in search of another equaliser, but in the final few minutes Easington broke away and made it 3–1.

Manager John Walters said:“I’m so frustrated with both the performance and the result. These young players worked incredibly hard to get themselves back into the game, and we had the momentum at 1–1. Unfortunately, an individual error cost us that momentum and put us back on the wrong side of the result.

“Having 11 players missing through injuries, suspension and other reasons certainly took its toll on our squad depth today. The lads gave everything, and I can’t fault their effort.

“Hopefully we have no game next week, which will give us the opportunity to get some of our injured players back and ready for the next game on 17th October.”

Despite the disappointment, the U23s showed plenty of character to fight back and get themselves level. Now it’s about recovering, getting players back fit and preparing properly for the next challenge.