Sunderland 2s 1-4 Carlisle2s

Sunderland 2s entertained a strong Carlisle team at the Raich Carter Centre in a high standard game of hockey. Despite the disappointing scoreline at the end, both teams played some excellent passing hockey at times. Sunderland 2s started off well and with veteran stalwarts Jim Gardner, Steve Crute, Mark Garrighan-Moore and Stewart Douglas ably supported by Matthew Sharp and Brian Mustard at the back managing to keep the skilful Carlisle forwards at bay.

Carlisle did however score first from a breakaway but the Wearsiders quickly responded through a superb switched short corner routine involving Matt Dench and Steve Crute which was slammed home by forward Dave Haugstad. Carlisle did manage to get a penalty flick after a ball was stopped on the Sunderland goal line but the unanimous man of the match Sunderland keeper Kristopher Kiefer saved superbly alongside many other fine saves throughout the game. 1-1 at half time.

In the second half, Sunderland 2s again started strongly and had some fine breaks from striker Andrew Tolhurst and wingers Luke Ashton and Tom Middleton but the team appeared to slacken off the pace and concentration which led to Carlisle scoring 3 goals in quick succession through breakaways as Sunderland pushed forward for the winner.

Nevertheless, the Wearsiders continued to attack and still made chances and the Carlisle keeper made a few excellent saves towards the end of the game. Despite the loss, Sunderland 2s are predominantly a young developing team and also in a much stronger league than last year so players will learn and benefit from the experience. Much credit to all the players who attended for their effort and hard work and many thanks to the families and supporters who regularly turn up to support. Also, many thanks to the Sunderland umpires of Mike Dixon and Helen Bowerman who both had fine games.