14 July 2010

Pre-season friendly

Click here for a slideshow of photos from the match

The team sheet showed pleasing continuity from last season, but also included a number of faces who are returning to the club, as well as new signings Harrison Davies and Rob McLean.

RCA created good movement and cohesion, in the first half in particular. This is promising for the new campaign. With more firendlies coming up there should be ample opportunity for players to improve and prove their fitness and to stake their claim for a starting place for the first competitive match: home to new boys Gillford Park on Saturday, 8 August.

The team sheet:

Starting 11
Gary Hoggeth, Steve Jones, Paul Wardle, Dave Anderson, Adam McGuinness, Steven Stewart, Michael Coghlan, Mark McLeod, Harrison Davies, Gary Sheilds, Paul Taylor

Came on during match
Chris Curtis, Lee Andrews, Adam Forrest, Rob McLean (GK), wayne Henderson, Andy Reay, Scott Richards, Chris Lumsden, Anth Laidler, Lee Smith

Sunderland RCA outshine Dunston in Pre-Season Match

Pre-season friendly

23 July 2009

Sunderland RCA travelled to Northern League Div I Dunston UTS for their second pre season friendly and came away with an emphatic 3 - 1 win. On a lovely summer evening the crowd were entertained by some good football by both teams but it was RCA who took the spoils.

Click here for a slideshow of photos from the match

A cagey opening spell by both teams suddenly burst into life when a screamer of a shot from Dunston full back Taylor was brilliantly saved by Hoggeth after 10 minutes. This spurred RCA into action and a jinxy run from Stewart ended in him crossing for Davison to beat Connell to make it 1-0. It could have been 2 -0 moments later when the same two players combined but this time Davison headed wide.
Dunston's only reply was a cross cum shot from Sheeran which was easily dealt with by Hoggeth.
RCA were easily the better team and defensively gave little away, even when temporarily down to ten men when trialist Noble was receiving treatment for a nose bleed.

Taylor shot wide after some good work by Halliday had set him up and Davison, who was causing major problems for the Dunston defence, was again unlucky shooting narrowly wide.

It was not unexpected when RCA increased their lead on the half hour with a slick passing movement started by McGuinness and ending with a low shot from Stewart which left the keeper stranded.
RCA had further chances to wrap the game up with Stewart firing wide, Davison having a 25 yard shot well saved by Connell and Taylor missing the target when clean through.

Dunston came back strong in the final minutes of the half and Preen wouild have scored but for a reaction save from Hoggett sending the ball round the post for a corner. The ball was then cleared off the line by Noble from a Sheeran header and RCA were able to clear.

The Managers of both teams made changes at half time to give everyone a chance but, unlike the Shields game when RCA fell away after the break, this time the momentum was maintained.
Dunston did start the better in the second half and it was only some stout defending by Wardle and Reay that denied Bulford on three seperate occassion in the first 5 minutes.

Having whethered the storm RCA reverted to the passing game that they had used to great effect in the first half and Stewart, now operating on the right wing, crossed for Davison but his flick on was well saved.

McLean was brought into action, having to punch clear from a corner with Collins threatening at the near post.

An injury to Coghlan meant a reshuffle in defence and this gave Dunston a slight lift and they got on top for the first time in the match. However, RCA managed to hang on until the 85th minute when during a goalmouth scamble Laws blasted the ball home. RCA's response was emphatic Stewart burst forward, beat two player before sending his shot narrowly wide.

Two minutes later a supurb crossfield ball from McGuinness found Stewart on the right wing, again he cut inside and this time found the bottom corner to finish the scoring.

A resounding victory and an all round excellent team performance which proves that there is strength in depth in the team.

25 July 2009

Pre season friendly

RCA Blast 7 past Bedale

The team travelled to Bedale FC in North Yorkshire for the 3rd of their pre season friendlies.

The game started in glorious sunshine with both teams playing open attacking football.

Taylor had RCA's first chance after 10 minutes when he was sent clean through by Coghlan but he fired narrowly wide.

Bedale's Parkinson was causing problems down the right and had an effort on goal which was easily saved by McLean.

Taylor squandered two further one on one chances sending the ball high and wide on both occassions. However the general play was promising and we were creating a lot of chances, especially from the left wing where Davies was getting a lot of the ball. Bedale persisted with their policy of counter attacking football and were a constant threat.

However it was against the run of play when they scored from freekick. Parry floated the ball into the box and Turner headed the ball into his own goal.

Within minutes RCA had two more chances firstly Davies crossed but nobody could get on the end of it and then Davison burst into the box and fired wide.

With 2 minutes remaining to half time Anderson was dispossessed on the edge of his own box and Parkinson cleverly chipped the ball over McLean's head into the net.

The second half opened with RCA attacking from the off and it was no surprise to see Taylor score after 47 minutes volleying in a headed pass from Davison.

Bedale defended well and denied RCA with some good tackling and blocks but it looked like it was only a matter of time before the equaliser came. On the hour mark, after a succession of corners, Davison rose unmarked at the back post and powered in a header past the helpless Heugh. This opened the floodgates and 2 minutes later Coghlan fired in a shot from 35yards which Heugh could only parry into the goal.

The manager introduced Wardle up front after 75 minutes and he tapped in from close range with his first touch of the match. Minutes later and Curtis had made it 5-2 within a minute Jones burst into the box and fired home to make it 6 and the final nail in the coffin was administed with 5 minutes remaining when Wardle scored his second.

28 July 2009

Pre season friendly

Sunderland RCA continued their pre season build up with a good competitive friendly at Tow Law.

A good move in first minute saw Mark Davison give RCA the lead. Matty Moffet equalised for Tow Law on four minutes.

On 20 minutes a clever Mick Coghlan free kick saw Harrison Davies slide past the keeper.

HT 1 - 2

On 55 minutes RCA centre half Wayne Henderson headed home from a corner to make it 3 - 1 to RCA. And on 68 minutes Wayne got his second in identical fashion to make it 4 - 1 to RCA. But three minutes later Andrew Thompson scored with a top class free kick from 25 yards, which gave Gary Hoggeth no chance. 4 - 2. A deflected Moffet effort brought Tow Law back to 4 - 3 on 75 minutes and made it for a hectic last 15, but RCA held on well.

30 July 2009

Pre Season Friendly

Sunderland RCA continued their impressive pre season with a workmanlike 3 - 0 win against Wearside league Silksworth FC. However, the real winner on the night was Cancer Research, the charity that the night was all about.

The match itself was very competative with Silksworth proving that they are not to far away from being a very good team. In the first 20 minutes, they matched RCA and had one effort which hit the crossbar.

In the 22 minute Taylor burst into the box and was fouled by the keeper. The penalty was sucessfully converted by Davison.

Silksworth responded with two good opportunities and were unlucky not to equalise when a long throw in from N Jones found Thopmpson inside the box but he fired wide.

RCA went two up when a long ball from Mcleod found Turner on the edge of the box and he deftly lobbed the advancing keeper.

ther second half was as competative as the first with both teams playing some good football but RCA proved that they were stronger and fitter than the Wearside league team and the final goal came through a piece of sheer brilliance. Coghlan picked the ball up in Midfield and threaded a ball through 5 defenders into the path of Davies who dummied the keeper before curling the ball into the net.

With 5 minutes remaining Coghlan showed another piece of skill which will be remembered for years to come by everyone who was there. he brought down a high kick from the keeper with his right foot, kept the ball up with alternative feet six times before despatching an inch perfect, 30 yard pass, to Davies on the left wing, the subsequent header from Davison went narrowly wide.

This match was a good work out for both teams and we wish Steve Smith and his team every success in the coming season.

1 August 2009

Pre Season Friendly

Mancunians get shock treatment

“From South Shields onwards we've been consistently good in our build up.”

- Neil Hixon

“The passing and movement in the first half were excellent and we've carried on.”

- George Herd

Sunderland RCA comprehensively outplayed and out fought a visibly shocked Atherton Collieries in their first home friendly in the pre-season build up to the 2009-10 campaign.

Mark – Sparky – Davison went nap, there were braces for Mickey Coghlan and Mark McLeod and Paul Taylor slotted home a penalty.

RCA kicked off down the slope and were instantly pressuring the Atherton defence. There was little waiting for the first breakthrough: a classy 25 yard strike from Mickey Coghlan in the centre of the park soared past the keeper.

RCA mustered more attacks. On 10 minutes a great cross from Gary Shields from RCA's right led to a corner, but the referee blew for a foul in the six yard box when the ball was played in. On 15 minutes a direct free kick from the corner of the box was curled over the cross bar. On 16 minutes a Harrison Davies cross from the left was met first time by Mark Davison, whose shot hit the near post. Moments later another cross from Gary Shields led to Sparky heading just wide. Five minutes later and it was Harrison Davies' turn to have a direct shot from 28 yards, which the keeper parried. There was no one from RCA on hand to follow up.

On 25 minutes RCA went two up following excellent work from Harrison Davies. Under pressure from two Atherton defenders he twisted, turned and crossed perfectly for Mark Davison to rifle home from 12 yards.

Two minutes later and RCA went three up. Through his usual combination of skill and determination Gary Shields won a 30:70 ball on the left, ran forward and fed Mark Davison who turned to avoid defenders and pick his spot.

On 35 minutes Sparky got his hat trick, holding the ball up, passing, getting it back again in the right channel to turn and shoot across the keeper into the far corner. Cue celebrations!

On 39 minutes RCA went five nil up, Paul Taylor converting a penalty after the referee judged that Scott Richards had been brought down unfairly in the area.

On 42 minutes Wayne Henderson went down after a knock to his knee and needed treatment. Minutes later through he had to come off and was replaced by Dave Anderson. (A few minutes into the second half, Dave was to go over on his ankle and had to come off. Neil, George and Glen will be wrapping Andy Reay and Paul Wardle in cotton wool.)

If spectators thought that was effectively the end of the first half they were wrong. On 44 minutes short interplay passing down the left ended with Michael Coghlan's second from six yards. Well into added time, a Gary Shields cross was met by hit man Mark Davison who headed home from 12 yards.

HT: Sunderland RCA 7 Atherton Collieries 0

For the second half, Rob McLean came on for Gary Hoggeth in goal and new signing Matthew Noble replaced Steve Jones at right back. Shortly into the half Adam McGuinness gave way for Dave Turner and Mark McLeod came on with Scott Richards moving into the back four for Dave Anderson following his ankle twist.

With wind and the slope and no doubt stung by their first half experience Atherton showed much more of their game, putting the RCA defence under some pressure, none of it telling though.

On 70 minutes, Mark Davison headed on a through ball. It looked unfortunate when the turning Paul Taylor slipped, but he still went on to win an RCA corner. The ball was played short to Gary Shields, whose cross shot was turned in by Mark McLeod at the far post.

Three minutes later and Mark Davison was back in on the scoring act. Clean through he looked to have taken the ball too far wide as he rounded the keeper, but he cut back in and knocked the ball home to make it 9 – 0 to the home side.

Atherton had not given up. On 74 minutes RCA keeper Rob McLean had to rush from his area and head clear to avoid being one-on-one with an Atherton forward. Two minutes later Mickey Coghlan nearly hit a deserved hat trick from a header following a Harrison Davies cross.

Mark McLeod wrapped up the scoring with his second and RCA's tenth, when following more RCA pressure, he ran in to score from a tight angle on the left.

SRCA team: Gary Hoggeth, Steve Jones, Adam McGuinness, Wayne Henderson, Paul Wardle, Scott Richards, Gary Shields, Michael Coghlan, Mark Davison, Paul Taylor, Harrison Davies, Dave Anderson, Dave Turner, Matthew Noble, Mark McLeod, Chris Curtis, Adam Forest.

5 August 2009

Alan Thompson Memorial Cup

The 2009 Alan Thompson Memorial Cup match between Ryhope CW and Sunderland RCA ended with a deserved 2 - 0 win to the home side Ryhope Colliery Welfare.

The match raised £280 for charity.

There has been some criticism of the visitors for fielding a compostite team, consisting mostly of RCA's Under 18 team, but the scoreline and much more importantly the keen contest on the night are more than an answer to such grumbles. Both sides played out a whole hearted contest.

The two goals came in the 59th and 89th minutes, both from Anthony Ross, following good work on the left wing from Martin Swales. RCA fielded a side consisting mainly of their Under 18s and they put on a good, well organised show, in a competitive match, but it was a fair result.

CW captain and centre half, Phil Hall lifted the cup for the home side. Phil was one of many players on the night who have played for both Ryhope clubs.

8th August 2009

skilltrainingltd Northern League Division 2: Attendance 78

The opening day of the new season saw Sunderland RCA FC matched against skilltrainingltd Northern League newcomers Gillford Park FC. A silver salver was presented by RCA's captain Gary Shields, to the Gillford captain Mark Butler, to mark the occasion.

The game started in glorious sunshine with RCA taking advanatage of the slope and it was they who had the first opportunity after 7 minutes when a cross from Davies was tipped away for a corner. Stewart sent in the corner for Davison to powerfully head home.

Dickinson had a chance to level 2 mninutes later but his shot went well wide. RCA took control of the game in a scintillating period of play which saw Coghlan burst into the box and although his shot was blocked Davies was there to volley home from 10 yards out. Within a minute it was 3 - 0 when a crossfield ball from Davies found the unmarked Shields who cracked the ball home from 15 yards out.

The crowd were being well entertained with fast attacking football and it was no surprise when Gillford pulled a goal back in the 18 minute when a corner was swung into the box by Butler and the ball was stabbed home from close range by Ian Johnstone.

Davison restored the 3 goal difference after 24 minutes when Sheilds sent in an inch perfect cross for him to head home his second of the match.

Gillford to their credit continued to battle and were rewarded with a breakaway goal when Bead sent the ball clear of his defence to Dickinson who's crossfield pass found Addison free and he finished superbly past the advancing Hoggeth.

At half time Andy Reay replaced Paul Wardle who was struggling with a hamstring problem.

The second half could never match up to the pace of the first and although both teams had chances to score, notably, Skinner and Dickinson, for Gillford Park, in the opening 3 minutes of the second half and Davison, RCA, after 50 minutes it was Stewart who sealed the victory with a well taken shot from an immaculate through ball from Richards.

As the game progressed both teams started to cancel each other out and although both teams had half chances to score niether keeper was really tested until the last 5 minutes when Hoggeth had to punch clear a wicked curling cross from Addison and than a shot from Davison from 40 yards caught Williams off his line but went narrowly wide.

12th August 2009

skilltrainingltd Northern League Division 2: Attendance: 62

RCA went top of the skillstrainingltd Northern League Second division after thouroughly outplaying their opponents Darlington RA FC.

There was only one change to the team which started on Saturday, with Matty Noble coming in for Steve Jones who is on holiday.

RCA took the early initiative and where in control from the start. Darlington set out their stall to defend and try to counter attack. How it took until the 15 minute for RCA to test the keeper is a testament to Darlington's defensive line up.

Davies had two efforts on goal, but both failed to test Raine in the Darlington goal.

In the 22 minute Davison rounded the keeper but fired into the side netting. It looked like RCA's shooting had deserted them and this was evident again when Stewart fired in a shot from 20 yards which went straight into Raine's hands.

The first goal when it eventually came in the 32 minute was a tremendous strike from Coghlan from 35 yards which took a deflection off Darlington midfielder Martin Smith.

Four minutes later they doubled their lead when a Shields shot was saved by Raine but the loose ball was headed home by Stewart. Within minutes the same player was guilty of the miss of the season when he blazed over the bar from 2 yards out.

It did not take long for him to redeem himself when he took a pass from Coghlan, beat two defenders with a blistering turn of pace before cutting the ball back into the path of Davison who guided the ball into the bottom corner of the net.

Darlington's only effort in a poor first half or them was in the 46 minute when McKie fired wide from 30 yards out.

The second half was only a minute old when Davies produced a piece of brilliance, receiving a 40 yard pass from Wardle on the left wing, he cut inside before delicately chipping the ball over Raine's head and into the net.

In the space of two minutes Raine was called upon to save from Davies and Coghlan but was unable to do anything when Davies crossed for substitute Taylor to ram home the fifth. Within a minute it could have been six, but Davison's powerful header rebounded off the post. This was to be his last action of the match as he made way for the debut of Liam McBryde who was playing only three weeks after knee surgery.

Darlington although well beaten did try to play some football and late in the game Jenkinson was unlucky with an effort, but the only save that Hoggeth had to make all game was in the 92 minute when he saved a 30 yard shot from Max Ripley.

15 August 2009

FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round: Attendance: 75

Sunderland RCA FC welcomed Ryton FC to Meadow Park for this Extra Preliminary FA Cup match.

RCA started the stronger and should have taken the lead as early as the 2 minute when a cross from Stewart found Davies in space at the back post, unfortunately, he volleyed high over the bar.

In the 13 minute RCA went in 1 - 0 up, courtesy of a howler from Ryton keeper Tony Davison, a cross from Davies was collected by Davison who then stumbled backwards into the net.

Ryton were visibly stunned by this and responded by starting to play some good football. Burrell was causing problems on the right and Barclay forced a good save from Hoggeth after 20 minutes.

Taylor had a great chance to make it 2 - 0 when he broke away from his marker and lobbed the ball over Davison’s head only to see his effort go agonisingly wide of the post. Within a minute of this RCA lost their captain Paul Wardle who suffered severe facial injuries after an unsavoury aerial challenge with Patton. This meant that RCA played for 8 minutes with 10 men and the impetus of the game swung to Ryton who utilised this spell to put pressure on the RCA defence. Halliday replaced Wardle and RCA got back into the game.

In the last minute of the first half Mark Davison almost scored when he made contact with a Stewart cross but could only guide it over the bar with the keeper beaten.

Ryton came out in the second half and started to dominate. Barclay was guilty of a miss after 50 minutes when he blasted wide from five yards.

In the 55 minute Ryton were awarded a penalty when Anderson pushed Patton inside the box and Marron converted. Ryton were in control and never took their foot of the pedal as they reduced RCA to breakaway attacks. A long range effort from Inness brought a good save from Hoggeth.

RCA held on until the 69 minute when Barclay volleyed home a cross from Burrell to make it 2 - 1 to the visitors.

RCA rallied for a spell as Ryton defended their lead and Halliday was unlucky to see a glancing header go wide. They then forced a succession of corners and only some superb defending by Preston kept the score at 2 - 1.

Man of the Match Dale Burrell finished off any hopes RCA had of a replay when he went on a solo run, beating two defenders before rounding the keeper to score from close range.

Ryton won this game with a disciplined second half performance and RCA will look back at the missed chances and a poor refereeing decision which changed the game.

22 August 2009

skilltrainingltd Northern League Division 2: Attendance: 72

This match between two teams who are looking for promotion this season was always going to be a tense affair and so it turned out with a single goal enough to secure the points for Sunderland RCA.

Marske took the game to RCA From the off and could easily have been in the lead inside the first 10 minutes but for some resolute defending by Wardle and Reay at the heart of RCA's defensive line up.

Skelton was unlucky with a shot that went narrowly wide after 12 minutes as Marske continued to pile the pressure on. RCA could have gone 1 -0 up against the run of play when a cross from Shields found McGuinness unmarked at the far post but he headed straight at Ledgeway in the Marske goal.

In the 25 minute Gamble broke into the RCA box and only a well timed challenge from Wardle stopped him from scoring. Marske looked to be in control and it was only their final ball that was missing.

RCA started to halt the tide of pressure after half an hour and were unlucky as first Davison headed narrowly over the bar and then Davies was adjudged to be off side when put through by Coghlan.

In the 40th minute Blair had probably the best chance of the half for Marske but somehow managed to head over and two minutes later from a corner the same player headed over again. The half time score of 0-0 reflected how well both defences had coped.

The quiet first half was matched by an explosive second which saw referee Mr McMullen at the centre of a number of controversial decisions.

With 5 minutes of the second half gone Hoggett was called upon to save from Gamble and a minute later Bradley shot wide.

Once again RCA weathered the early pressure and came back at Marske. Davison saw a well placed header saved by Ledgeway. RCA were looking more composed now and looking to go forward with Shields and McBryde combining to set up Davison but his header went well wide. McGuinness almost broke the deadlock with an audacious shot from 35 yards out which only just went over the bar with the keeper beaten.

McBryde did break the deadlock in the 60 minute when he rose higher than everyone else to head home from six yards out.

From the kick off a clumsy challange by Richards had everyone off their seats and it is easy to say in hindsight that he should have been booked for the challenge but the referee chose only to speak to him. This backfired within minutes when a clash between Reay and Skelton resulted in punches being thrown and two red cards being issued. A further red card was issued when Swalwell was given a second yellow card for what appeared to be grabbing someone by the throat.

The game degenerated from that point on with the referee losing control and dishing out yellow cards like confetti.

Both RCA and Marske had penalty appeals turned down with the referee and assistants reluctant to make any sort of decision on the incidents. Within the last five minutes Halliday had a great chance to finish Marske off but fired wide.

Marske had plenty of chances to equalise late in the game but some good defending and poor finishing meant that RCA keep their unbeaten league run going.

As others see us

The bloggers from Around the Grounds were at this match. You can read their view here.

26 August 2009

skilltrainingltd Northern League Division 2

Sunderland RCA FC celebrated their 1,000th Northern League game with an emphatic win over Hebburn Town FC. Before the match Sunderland RCA's captain for the night, Paul Wardle, was presented with a silver salver from League Chairman Mike Amos MBE for reaching the milestone of playing 1,000 Northern League games.

RCA started the game in a determined mood and maintained a high tempo to their game that could not be matched by Hebburn. They took the lead after four minutes when a cross from Richards was headed home by McBryde. RCA for all their supremacy could not capitalise on some poor Hebburn defending and it was the home side who almost equalised when Myers burst into the box and rolled the ball to Armstrong who blasted the ball wide from five yards out.

This was the wake up call that RCA needed and they extended their lead when Stewart beat two players on the right wing before crossing for McBryde to score his second. RCA were in total control of the game now and when Coghlan found Davies on the left with a great ball he had time to beat the full back before crossing an inch perfect return pass to Coghlan who steered the ball past Donaldson from 8 yards out. 2 minutes later and Richards won the ball in midfield, passed the ball to Coghlan who unleashed a shot from 30 yards which hit the post with the keeper beaten.

RCA were making their aerial supremacy count and it was no suprise when Davison made it 4-0 when he headed in a cross from Davies. The same player then headed over the bar after some good work by Richards. He made amends a minute later when he received the ball from Richards on the 18 yard line with his back to goal, turned and fired a shot into the bottom corner to make it 5-0.

Hebburn scored in the 44th minute when a rare lapse in the RCA defence allowed Myers in and he passed to Gordon who fired into the net.

Hebburn started the second half a lot better than the first and had two goal attempts in as many minutes with McMann firing wide and then over the bar from 10 yards out. However, the difference in the finishing was highlighted when Davison completed his hat trick, rising above everybody else, to power a header into the net. Not to be outdone, McBryde picked up a through ball from Richards, burst between two players before burying the ball in the Hebburn net for his hat trick. The night was complete when yet another cross from the right was headed home from close range by Davison for his fourth and RCA's 8th.

A thoroughly impressive team performance on a special night for the club.

29 August 2009

skilltrainingltd Northern League Division 2

Sunderland RCA kept up the 100% record in the second division with a hard fought victory over a spirited Birtley Town team.

Birtley Town without a number of key players started well and were unlucky not to score in the first 5 minutes when Brown had a shot deflected wide for a corner. Johnson then fired well wide when in a dangerous position.

RCA seemed to take an age to adjust to the pace of the opposition, but when they did a quick passing move between Coghlan and Richards resulted in a cross that brought a great save by Regan from a Davison header. Birtley counter attacked and only a great save from Hoggeth denied Terrell.

After 20 minutes Birtley were awarded a corner and when the ball came in the header by Armstrong hit Coghlan who was on the goal line and was cleared to Jones who found McBryde with an inch perfect ball and his finishing was clinical. RCA 1-0 up against the run of play.

Within a minute Davison had another header saved by Regan. RCA were starting to put some good moves together and were causing the Birtley defence problems with balls into the box. It was Birtley who almost equalised next when the ever dangerous Terrell fired in a shot which was turned round th epost by Hoggett.

Regan in the Birtley goal was called upon again after 30 minutes and saved with his feet from Davison. Stewart fired over the bar a minute later when in a good position. There was little Regan could do about the second goal when Davison rose high above the Birtley defence to powerfully head home a Coghlan freekick.

In the early part of the second half RCA took control of the midfield and started to play the sort of football we Know they are capable of. McBryde was unlucky with a shot that went wide and a Davison header flashed just over the bar. A surging run from Coghlan saw him almost score, but the final shot was straight at Regan.

It was however Birtley who came nearest to scoring when substitute Hughes went on a solo run, cutting in from the right wing he unleashed a terrific shot which struck the post before rebounding to safety. A minutes later and Brown shot tamely wide from a very promising position.

McLeod finally killed the game off when he headed in at the far post from a corner after 76 minutes.

Birtley responded with some good football, but RCA's defence, ably led by Wardle, coped with everything that was thrownn at them in the final 10 minutes.

The difference between the two teams today was the clinical finishing of RCA.

31 August 2009

skilltrainingltd Northern League Division 2

Sunderland RCA were looking to stretch their record start to the season with a sixth successive victory at local rivals Seaham Red Star FC. As local derbies go, this was not a classic, but it did produce a tension packed afternoon which saw both teams playing flowing attacking football.

Seaham Red Star, after their 2 -1 defeat last week, were looking for a return to winning ways and started this match playing some good attractive football. However it was RCA who had the first real chance of the game when Davison fired in a shot which was well saved by Thackeray.

Red Star were unlucky when Winspear broke down the right and his cross was met by Hugill but his shot was blocked by Wardle.

The game became bogged down in midfield and both defences seemed to be coping with any long balls into the box. There was also a strong gusty wind which spoiled some enterprising moves by both teams with the ball either running away from players or holding up in the wind.

RCA took the lead when Stewart was unceremoniously dragged to the ground by Linighan and Davison stepped up to blast the penalty home.

Hugill broke through in the 40th minute but fired his shot wide and Winspear and Hugil combined once again to trouble the RCA defence before Winspear fired straight at Hoggeth.

RCA almost went further ahead when a shot from McBryde was saved by Thackeray.

The second half saw RCA looking more composed and looking to pass the ball while Red Star continued to pressure the ball in an attempt to upset the play.

Red Star equalised when a long cross field ball from Winspear found Croft in acres of space and with Hoggeth out of position he crossed the ball for Hugill to ram home.

Minutes later and another cross from the same wing beat everyone and went out for a goal kick.

RCA came back into the game with Stewart now operating on the right and causing plenty of problems with a succession of crosses which were well dealt with by Laidler. Both McBryde and Davison had chances to score and only some brave goalkeeping stopped McBryde from scoring at the near post.

As the game entered the final minutes there was some frantic defending by Red Star as they repelled a succession of RCA attacks.

The deadlock was broken in the 92nd minute when a freekick was awarded 45 yards out, Jones crossed into the box and Davison rose above everyone to head home.

05 September 2009

FA Vase First round Qualifying

Sunderland RCA welcomed Armthorpe Welfare from Doncaster to Welfare Park for this first round Preliminary FA Vase match. Both teams are top of their respective divisions, both teams are unbeaten in the league and have only lost one cup match. So this should be an interesting match.

Armthorpe took advantage of the wind and the slope and were on the offensive from the off forcing a corner when an overhead kick by Holden was well saved by Hoggeth. When the corner was swung into the near post Nelthorpe was first to react steering the ball into the net from two yards out. 1-0 down inside two minutes was not the sort of start that RCA wanted.

In the 10th minute Coghlan beat two players on the right wing before crossing for Davison who missed the target with a free header from eight yards.

Armthorpe immediately went down the other end and RCA conceded another corner; this time when it was swung into the near post and the ball was cleared but only as far as Nelthorpe who this time hooked the ball into the net.

RCA were shocked by this second goal, but continued to play some good football and it was only the final ball that was letting them down.

RCA were awarded a penalty after 35 minutes when an Armthorpe player was adjudged to have handled inside the box. Davison stepped up but his spot kick was well saved by Murray.

Hoggeth was called into action again as the second half came to a close when Davis fired in a shot from 35 yards,

The second half saw RCA piling on the pressure as wave after wave of attacks were repelled by a well organised Armthorpe defence.

Davison had a header which went wide then a long range effort from Coghlan flew over the bar. McBryde and Davison combined in a one-two which resulted in a shot from McLeod going wide.

Armthorpe seemed happy to absorb the pressure and try to counter.

Whatever RCA did Armthope seemed able to cope with and James Walker was outstanding. For all their second half supremacy RCA did not test Murray in the Armthorpe goal.

12 September 2009

skilltrainingltd Northern League Division II

Sunderland RCA maintained their inpressive start to the season with a seventh successive league win at Thornaby. However the "Ryes" didn't have it all their own way as Thornaby showed plenty of fighting spirit in the first half.

RCA opened the scoring with the first real attack of the game when a through ball from McLeod found Taylor on the edge of the box where he beat the defender before blasting the ball into the back of the net.

A minute later and Thornaby were almost level when a shot from Livingstone rattled the post before being cleared by McGuinness. Davison saw an effort go wide and Taylor was also off target with a shot. At the other end Thornaby were causing a few problems of their own with McLean called upon to make a save from Winspear.

The equaliser came in the 24th minute when the quick thinking of Tomlinson caught the RCA defenders sleeping. While they were still arguing about the validity of a freekick, Tomlinson stepped up and passed the ball to Gibson who squared it to Garside who fired home.

RCA reacted with some good football down the right and when Stewart was fouled on the edge of the box it was an ideal situation for them to exploit the Thornaby defence; unfortumnately the well taken free kick went narrowly wide. Thornaby then suffered a major setback when Abdullah, auguably their best defender, was carried off the pitch with a pulled hamstring.

RCA took control of the game in a scintillating 15 minute period at the start of the second half. Davison had two efforts on goal in the opening four minutes of the half and when Stewart cut inside he was brought down inside the box by Reed and a penalty was awarded.

Coghlan took the penalty and his well struck shot rebounded off the post. Jones reacted the quickest and fired the ball home from an acute angle.

Stewart was starting to get at the Thornaby defence on the right and Davies was causing problems down the left. It was only a matter of time before they increased their lead - this time Stewart played a neat one two with Davison inside the box before beating Pisawi with a powerful shot.

Thornaby were unable to cope with the pace of the game and started to tire while RCA were starting to play some really good football. Stewart was the provider for the fourth goal when he burst past two defenders before firing in a shot which was weel saved by Pisawi, but the ball rebounded to Stewart who squared the ball to substitute Davis who sidefooted home from close range.

Thornaby tried to make a fight of it but could not get past the RCA defence and were for the most part kept at bay by a well-drilled RCA defence. When they did get into good positions their final ball let them down or they found McLean in the RCA goal hard to beat.

In the 85th minute Davison rounded off a good second half performance when a received a pass from Noble, controlled the ball with his right foot and turned a hit a thunderbolt of a right foot shot into the top corner of the net.

16 September 2009

skilltrainingltd Northern League Div II

Sunderland RCA lost their 100% league record to a very good Crook Town team who more than matched them in a very competitive 0-0 draw at Meadow Park.

How often have you heard it said that 0-0 draws were predictable? Well when these two teams met they had scored 45 goals between them so a no score draw was probably the most unpredictable score line imaginable.

The game started with Crook forcing the pace and a shot from Kokes going wide. It didn’t take long for RCA to respond and it was Davison who produced a cracking shot which was well saved by Lanning.

In the 18th minute Crook looked to have taken the lead when a cross into the box was met by Olusoga who scrambled it home, but he was adjudged to be offside. Crook were piling on the pressure and gained two corners in quick succession; however they were well dealt with by RCA defence.

In the 37th minute RCA were awarded a freekick on the edge of the box and Coghlan passed the ball to Davies who crossed into the box only for Lanning to get to the ball just before the head of Davison.
Two minutes later and another Coghlan freekick went inches wide with the keeper beaten.

In the 42nd minute Taylor tried an audacious shot from 25 yards which rattled off the crossbar and was cleared by Hall.

The second half saw Crook well on top in the opening 10 minutes with Kokes going close with a snap shot and Hall heading against the crossbar. The two forwards were causing all sorts of problems and only some superb defending by Wardle and Anderson kept them at bay.

In the 70th minute a corner was awarded to Crook and when the ball was delivered into the box Hall powered a header downward into the bottom corner. Somehow Mclean got a hand to the ball and turned it over the bar. A great save to keep RCA in the game.

The introduction of Richards to the midfield added something to RCA as an attacking force and they came into the game a little more. Coghlan sent another freekick inches wide and when Davis crossed to the far post Taylor was on hand to volley the ball home only to be flagged for offside.

Both teams continued to attack and to try to win the game and as the match reached its conclusion a flare up between a number of players resulted in the dismissal of Davis.

RCA will probably not face a sterner test than this one and they came through with their unbeaten league form intact. Crook will be disappointed that they did not convert at least one of their chances.

19 September 2009

skilltraining Northern League Division II

Sunderland RCA continued their unbeaten League run against a hard working Washington team. Another three points keep them clear at the top of Division II.

RCA were once again caught napping in the opening minutes of the game when a through ball from Lydon found Emmerson unmarked inside the box and he made no mistake from 12 yards out.

Within four minutes they had equalised when Stewart's supurb cross evaded the Washington defence and found Davies at the far post and he cooly slotted home.

Washington were unlucky when Reays cross was volleyed over the bar by Emmerson and Watling had a shot which flew wide. A quick Coghlan freekick to Davies almost punished Washington as the cross found Richards but his shot was deflected for a corner. From the corner Richards headed over.

Within a minute a cross from Taylor found Davies at the far post, but this time he volleyed the ball wide of the target.

A bizzare incident near the end of the half when Watling challenged McLean in the RCA goal and the ball ran free, Watling picked himself up and stabbed the ball home. The Assistant Referee disallowed the goal presumably for a foul on the keeper.

An even sillier incident occurred after six minutes of the second half when the whole Washington back four appealed for offside against Taylor as he ran past them; the keeper raced off his line and was favourite to get to the ball, but Taylor challenged him and won the ball and from near the touchline curled the ball into an empty net.

RCA started to dominate in the next 20 minutes with constant pressure on the Washington goal, Davison had a header fly over the bar, Davies should have killed the game off with shot that flew wide. A minute later and a Davison header found Richards who crossed for Coghlan, but he shot over. Within minutes Davies won a header in the box and the ball fell to Davison who chested it down before hitting a shot which Starford saved brilliantly. From the corner Anderson had a great header well saved by Starford.

Washington having survived this onslaught came back at RCA and some good work by Lydon and Oliver in the centre of the park saw the latter make a supurb pass which found Emmerson free and his shot beat Mclean but was cleared off the line by Jones.

In the 85 minute Davison received a pass from Richards, turned and fired in a shot which beat Starford, but rebounded off the upright; the ball fell to McBryde 12 yards out but he fired over the bar.

This seemed to spur Washington on and they finished the game putting pressure on the RCA defence without really testing McLean.

26th September 2009

skilltrainingltd Northern League Div II

RCA were forced to make three changes for the visit of Whickham for today's match. In came Club Captain Stephen Halliday for the injured Coghlan, Ashley Davis started in place of McGuinness who was on holiday and Liam Mcbryde took over at centre forward from the injured Taylor.

The game started in beautiful sunshine with RCA taking advantage of the slope in the first half and it was not long before they were on the attack with a crossfield ball from Halliday finding Davies on the left wing, his cross was met by Davison, but his header was saved by Cresswell.

In the 10th minute another good ball from midfield found McBryde on the right and his cross was headed over the bar by Davison.

RCA took the lead after 15 minutes when a surging run by Richards left the Whickham defence in disarray, his cross found McBryde at the far post and he headed goalwards, Stewart made sure nipping to head home from close range.

The Whickham response was immediate with Tait firing wide from 15 yards out and within a minute they put pressure on the RCA defence and a mistake was almost punished by Laws, but he fired straight at McLean.

RCA had the ball in the net when McBryde rose high above Andison and headed home only for the linesman to flag for an infringement.

Late in the half a lovely cross from Stewart found Davies inside the six yard box, but he could only guide the ball onto the bar and into the waiting arms of Cresswell and a minute later the same player shot across the face of goal. McBryde had another goal disallowed when he ghosted in at the back post to score from a well taken corner. The referee awarded a freekick for a foul on the keeper. However, on the hour mark McBryde got the goal that his efforts deserved when he latched onto a pass from Stewart and although Cresswell saved the first shot he followed up and slide the ball home.

Within a minute RCA were 3 - 0 up when Richards hit an unstoppable 25 yard screamer which the goalkeeper never saw.

Only some brilliant saves from Cresswell kept the score at 3 - 0, firstly a point blank save from Shields and then he saved with his feet from Stewart.

Chances were coming and being squandered by a rampant RCA and Whickham were struggling to keep up with the pace of the game.

To their credit they stuck at it and as the game entered the final five minutes they started to put pressure on the RCA defence. Swanston had probably the best chance when he went clear of the defence, but decided to shoot when there were two team mates in a better position in front of goal and his effort went wide.

3 October 2009

skilltrainingltd Northern League Div. II

SRCA maintained their unbeaten start to the season with a hard fought win at Jarrow in atrocious conditions. The high winds made it almost impossible to play football and at times the game degenerated into a lottery.

Roofing took advantage of the strong wind in the first half but struggled to command. RCA counter attacked to great effect and were unlucky on five minutes when a clearance from Anderson fell into the path of McBryde, but his header went narrowly wide.

It wasn't until the 15th minute that Jarrow had a shot on target, a crossfield pass from Milner found Nelson free on the left and his well placed shot was superbly saved by Hoggeth. Five minutes later a through ball from Stewart found Halliday but with only the keeper to beat he dragged his shot inches wide.

Jarrow were forced to make a substitution when Milner was injured in a collision with Richards and was taken to hospital for a precautionary check up.

In the 31st minute RCA took the lead when Stewart sent a lovely cross into the box and McBryde was on hand to steer it into the net.

The half ended in dramatic fashion when a penalty was awarded to Jarrow Roofing when Wardle pulled back Nelson. However, Hoggeth pulled off a spectacular save from Forster's spot kick.

Within two minutes of the restart RCA were 2 - 0 up when a free kick from Jones was flicked on by McBryde to Davies who made no mistake from 10 yards out. Back came Jarrow with a well worked move which saw Dixon cross for Nelson and he beat the keeper from 12 yards.

The miss of the season took place after 10 minutes when a Jarrow player was guilty of missing an empty net from two yards out.

A minute later and RCA were down to 10 men when Wardle was given a second yellow card for a foul on Nelson.

The rest of the game saw Jarrow pushing for the equaliser and RCA showing why they are undefeated in the league with a solid defensive display.

Davies was unlucky with a 25 yard lob which landed on the roof of the net and in the 88th minute Nelson was once again denied by Hoggeth in the RCA goal.

Overall it is fair to say the the weather won this game although given the condition both teams did try to play football.

10 October 2009

skilltrainingltd Northern League Division II

Sunderland RCA played their "get out of jail free" card today to maintain their unbeaten run. However it took a 82nd minute goal from top scorer Mark Davison to clinch a hard fought draw against a very good Guisborough team.

Guisborough started the game strongly and forced RCA to defend for the opening 10 minutes without creating a meaningful shot on target.

RCA responded through a quick counter attack which saw Davies deliver a lovely cross into the box which McBryde couldn’t quite get to. A minute later and Davies brought a fantastic fingertip save from Rafferty when he fired in a shot from 25 yards.

Guisborough almost took the lead after 20 minutes when Henry whipped in a freekick and Butterworth headed over the bar from six yards out.

In the 30th minute RCA had a penalty appeal when Stewart was sent sprawling in the box, but the referee waved play on. Within a minute Stewart burst through again, but his shot was easily saved by Rafferty. Portas sent Onions clear in the 40th minute but the “Boro” striker shot well wide. At the other end Halliday, in space on the edge of the box, fired high and wide. In the final minute of the half RCA were forced to make a substitution when Anderson fell awkwardly and was unable to continue.

Two minutes into the second half and McBryde set Davies up with a deft flick, but the winger fired wide with just the keeper to beat.

Guisborough started to take control of the match and RCA were forced on the defensive again. The influential Portas was picking everything up in midfield and driving them forward at every opportunity. Onions up front had two golden opportunities to open the scoring; in the 65th minute he headed over the bar and two minutes later fired straight at Hoggeth. He redeemed himself in the 68th minute when he was sent clear of the RCA defence with a pass from Portas, this time he rounded the keeper and slotted home.

RCA brought on Coghlan for Davies and this had an immediate effect, a freekick from Richards was misheaded by Davison into the waiting arms of Rafferty, a minute later and McBryde slipped the ball through to Coghlan and his measured cross was headed home by Davies. RCA for the first time in the match were looking the better team and looked to capitalise on some defensive errors, however Rafferty pulled off a superb save from Halliday and when a cross from Coghlan was met by Davison he shot wide.

Guisborough rallied in the last five minutes and Hoggeth was forced to punch a dangerous curling shot away.

This was a well earned point against a very strong Guisborough team who will be there or thereabouts at the end of the season.

17 October 2009

skilltrainingltd Northern League Div. II

Sunderland RCA's unbeaten run in the league came to sudden end when they were defeated 2 - 0 by Newton Aycliffe at home.

This was the first visit of Newton Aycliffe to Meadow Park and they became the first team to beat us in the League this season.

The game started with both teams looking to play attacking football and as early as the third minute a cross from Davies was headed narrowly over by Davison.

Hoggeth was forced into action when Broom fired in a shot from 25 yards, which he managed to tip over the bar.

With the midfields cancelling each other out both teams reverted to a more direct style and Renshaw was unlucky with a shot that went wide.

RCA started to get on top as the half hour mark approached and McBryde, Davies, Halliday and Stewart were all guilty of holding onto the ball too long when a simple pass or shot might have resulted in a goal. The Aycliffe defence held out and on a quick counter Renshaw crossed into the box and Gardner was on hand to steer the ball home from six yards.

After the break RCA put the Aycliffe goal under siege and it took a truly brilliant save from Richardson to deny a McBryde header. A minute later and a corner from Stewart was met by Wardle who thundered his header onto the cross bar.

Aycliffe reacted with a cross from Renshaw which found Gardner in space inside the box, but he fired wide.

In the 70th minute Coghlan burst into the box and shot, but once again Richardson in the Aycliffe goal was equal to it.

Within a minute Aycliffe were 2 - 0 up. Broom beat two defenders before rolling the ball into the path of Owen who made no mistake from 10 yards.

RCA tried hard to get something from the last 15 minutes, but were well held by a great defensive display with special mention going to Mitton and Close.

RCA were not at their best today, but Aycliffe to their credit made it difficult for us to play our usual game.

20 October 2009

Durham Challenge Cup Competition

Sunderland RCA FC went out of the Durham Challenge Cup competition beaten 3-0 by Ryton FC. RCA’s manager Neil Hixon was forced through injury, suspensions and work commitments to make several changes to the team and he gave first team debuts to five youngsters, Graeme Pickering started in goal with Liam Dunn, and Jonathan Davis starting the match. He then brought on substitutes Ryan Mather and Peter Deary to end the match with 5 players under the age of 18.

The game started in in typical cup fashion with both teams pressing for an early advantage, but with both defences looking solid there were no chances until the 18th minute when a shot from Taylor was well saved by the keeper and when Taylor crossed the ball into the box from the rebound there were no RCA players to take advantage.

With the RCA youngsters showing great enthusiasm the Ryton team were unable to get the ball moving forward with any effect. Benjamin did have a shot which was easily saved by Pickering and Innes fired wide.

In the 32nd minute one stray pass led to the opening goal when Innes pounced on a loose defensive ball and fired goalward, the ball took a wicked deflection of a defender and sent Pickering the wrong way.

Stewart had a chance to level the score, but fired wide.

The second half saw RCA pressing for the equaliser and both Taylor and Stewart had chances but both fired wide.

Benjamin forced a save from Pickering before and Dunn made a great tackle on Innes to deny the striker a shot on goal.

A long ball out of defence caught Ryton napping and the quickness of Stewart had him clear of the defence, unfortunately at the vital moment he slipped and the chance was gone.

Benjamin scored the second Ryton goal when he received a long ball from Young and fired home.The same player put the game beyond doubt when he fired home from 25 yards.

This was a good opportunity to see the progress made by the youngsters of RCA and none of them let the team down.

24 October 2009

skilltrainingltd Northern League Div II

This game was billed as the clash of the league leaders against the current in form team. Brandon have made great strides in recent seasons and have looked a very decent team leading up to today's game. Everyone was looking to see how RCA would react to their first league defeat of the season.

My apologies for the less than informative first half report; unfortunately I didn't arrive until just before half time. I had to attend my granddaughter's 4th birthday party, which just proves that we do have a life outside of football.

The highlight of the first half was the goal scored by Taylor in the 15th minute. I was informed that we should have been 7 - 0 up by half time, but that information was given to me by an RCA supporter.

The second half started with RCA attacking up the slope and they immediately went close when a cross fromm Davies was headed wide by Davison. In the 52nd minute Davison scored to make it 2 - 0 when he controlled a long ball from McGuinness on his chest before slotting past Joyce in the Brandon goal.

Brandon got back to 2 - 1 in bizarre circumstances when an appeal for a penalty was initially turned down by the referee, but as the RCA defence cleared the ball he awarded a penalty. Fothergill converted the spot kick.

RCA piled on the pressure and were unlucky when Taylor broke into the box and looked odds on to score, but fired high and wide. Within a minutes he had another chance and again fired wide.

After a number of near misses RCA eventually got their third goal when a corner from Stewart to the far post was met by the unmarked Davison who volleyed home his 14th of the season.

The one way traffic continued and shots from Halliday, Sherwood and Stewart were all easily dealt with by Joyce.

RCA's goal did survive a mini onslaught when Dixon fired in a shot which was cleared off the line by Jones and the follow up was again cleared off the line by McGuinness.

RCA broke from this and substitute Davis was unlucky to see his shot go wide. Brandon looked to go forward after this slight break through, but were well and truly caught napping when a long ball out off defence from debutant McArdle was chased down by Davis and his delicate lob beat Joyce and nestled in the bottom corner of the net.

There were further chances for RCA to increase their lead, but they had to settle for a 4-1 win which keeps them six points clear at the top of Division Two.

31 October 2009

skilltrainingltd Northern League Div. II

Sunderland RCA lost out to a workmanlike Stokesley team with the only goal of the match coming from ex RCA player Andy Jennings.

How RCA did not get something out of this game is a mystery. For long period of the match they dominated but they could not produce the finishing required on the day.

Within five minutes of the start Stewart raced clear of the Stokesly defence and his cross was met at the far post by Davies who fired wide from two yards out. Three minutes later and Taylor was unlucky with a snap shot. A cross into the box by Davies was dropped by the keeper, but Taylor and Davison did not react quickly enough and the danger was cleared by Andrew O'Shea. At this point Stokesley had not had a meaningful attack.

After 15 minutes a cross field ball from McGuinness found Stewart in acres of space as he moved into the box, but fired his effort wide with only the keeper to beat.

An injury to Taylor seemed to dispupt the attacking options of RCA and Stokesley started to get more into the game. A shot from Jennings was well aved by Hoggeth and minutes later a long range effort by Yalcin went well wide. RCA were struggling to create any chances during this period and it was only a superb save from a Radigan freekick by Hoggeth that kept the score at 0-0.

The deadlock was broken when Jones was caught in possession on the byline by Stewart and his cross found Jennings unmarked and he tapped home from four yards out.

At the start of the second half Jennings almost made it 2 - 0 when he beat two players before firing low into the corner, but Hoggeth was well placed to save easily.

RCA changed up a gear and forced Stokesley back and only some last ditch defending kept them in the game. A shot from Davison went narrowly over the bar. Minutes later and a cross from Noble found Davison who fired the ball at the goal, but it was cleared of the line. RCA continued to bombard the Stokesley goal and reduced them to breakaway attacks during one of these attacks a splendid effort from Yalcin was turned over the bar by Hoggeth. RCA then hit the post and the follow up was fired wide.

Good defensive work from Stokesley denied any further real chances and the game ended 1-0 in favour of stokesley.

7 November 2009

skilltrainingltd Northern League Division 2

"Funny old game is football", 0-0 at half time and Jarrow could have been 3 - 1 up, with 15 minutes to go RCA are 3 - 1 up and look to be coasting and then Jarrow respond and the match ends 3 - 3. Take nothing away from both teams, if you were a neutral you would probably have enjoyed it. However this was a game that was thrown away by RCA and two valuable points dropped.

Sunderland RCA welcomed third placed Jarrow Roofing to Meadow Park in this top of the table clash.

Jarrow took advantage of the slope in the first half and were immediately on the attack with Nelson slipping a ball in to Houghton who fired wide.

RCA's first effort was a header by Taylor which went wide. The game was being played at a furious pace and both teams were looking to attack, however the defences of both teams were holding strong. A good run by Hepple found him clear of the RCA defence, but his shot flew over the bar. A minute later and Hughes jinxed into the box, but his cross shot went across the face of goal and narrowly wide.

RCA weathered the storm and came back at Jarrow a shot from Stewart was well saved by Frater two minutes later Taylor found himself free on the right, he cut inside but his effort went wide.

Hoggeth was called into action to save a Kevin Davison freekick and in the last minute of the half a Halliday cross was headed over the bar by Davison.

RCA started the second half on fire and looked to have caught Jarrow cold. A cross from Noble was headed home by Davison after 50 minutes and on 53 minutes a cross from Taylor caused a mix up in the box and Halliday was the quickest to react stabbing the ball into the net.

Jarrow fought back and were rewarded when Nelson found the net after some good work by Hughes.

RCA went 3 - 1 up when a shot from 20 yards out by Davison took a deflection and ended up in the net. Within two minutes the score was 3 - 2 when Jarrow were awarded a penalty and Kevin Davison converted, sending Hoggeth the wrong way. Immediately from the kick off RCA attacked and Mark Davison was unlucky not to deliver his hat trick, but his shot was saved by Frater.

In the 80th minute a cross from Hepplewhite was turned into his own net by the unfortunate Wardle.

The match ended 3 -3 but both Stewart and Noble will be added to RCA's long injury list.

Wednesday, 18 November 2009

Ernest Armstrong Memorial Cup Round Two

As other Northern League Cup fixtures fell by the wayside this evening, due to waterlogged pitches, we were very pleased to be at Hebburn Sports Club tonight on a pitch that showed up very well on arrival. Several members of the RCA squad were more than happy that the game was going ahead. U18 Youth players - goalkeeper Graeme Pickering plus defenders Liam Dunn, Marc Moon with midfielders Jonny Davis and Ryan Mather all being called up for their second taste of first team action in a month. New signing, forward Peter Benson was also selected to make his debut for the team. Club Captain Scott Richards was also back in the squad for the first time in over a month.

Pickering, Dunn and Davis made it to the starting eleven and it was pleasing to see Wayne Henderson also in the line up having been out of competitive action since August. Centre midfielder Michael Coghlan also started for the first time in a few weeks, having fully recovered from injury.

The level of buoyancy from RCA was transferred straight into the game and after kicking off, the visitors immediately made progress into the Hebburn half. In the second minute Wayne Henderson played a ball through the centre that split the Hebburn defence wide open and the league’s current top scorer Mark Davison was on it quick wasting no time, hitting a great 25 yard effort that Kevin Duncan in goal, dived to his left glancing the ball onto the post. RCA’s first corner and when Steven Stewart hit the centre in, the ball was half cleared to the same player this time he beat the full back then pulled the ball across for Benson who calmly swept the ball home. A real lively start continued as minutes later Dunn from right full back played Benson in again, beating the offside trap he hit an early shot from distance that went a yard past the post. Hebburn responded for the first time after 10 minutes, midfielder Keith Oliver linking with forward Shaun Carroll who running onto goal was only thwarted by a great last ditch tackle from Paul Wardle. Coghlan in midfield for RCA was showing great energy and after several passes were exchanged in midfield, the same player received the ball out wide right. Well even David Beckham couldn’t have hit a cross field pass like it, 60 yards at least over the head of the left fullback where Stewart took down superbly before playing Davison in on the edge of the box and he slotted home with aplomb. 2 – 0 to RCA and celebrations all round. Hebburn were fighting hard to keep in contention and minutes later a further cross was delivered into Davison who rose well but headed over. The home side regrouped and some good play down the right from Karl McMann ended up with a fine delivery that Graeme Matthewson hit on the volley just wide of the post. However after 25 minutes RCA moved downfield and again Stewart was the antagonist, turning defenders both ways before hitting a raking cross which Davison got up and despatched his header into the net. 3 – 0 and Hebburn supporters must have been thinking lightning could happen twice, with memories of the RCA 8 – 1 rout in August flooding back.

The game really opened up now and the end to end play really entertained the supporters. After Hebburn again moved down the right a further cross was met by Willie Crew who headed wide. In a counter attack on 35 minutes, Hebburn moved down the left where the fullback and winger appear to get in each others way forcing the ball out of play. The official flagged for a home throw and whilst the RCA players stopped to appeal, the full back threw the ball over the defence and Carroll raced into the box and coolly slotted home. Chaos for a short period and a couple of bookings ensued which were not in line with the general flow of the game. The game could have been put out of sight by RCA when Coghlan done all the hard work playing a one two to beat the last line of defence but racing through he slotted over with only keeper to beat. Davison headed wide minutes later. As half time approached though it was Hebburn who nearly scored again when out of nothing number 9 Michael Armstrong reached a loose ball on the edge of the box and stretching, he toe poked the ball goalwards and it spun off the turf, changing slight direction and Pickering threw up an arm to deflect onto the post. The referee blew the whistle to end a half that had management scratching heads, but was more than entertaining for the neutral.

RCA returned to the field with youth player Marc Moon taking over at right back with Dunn moving to centre back replacing Henderson. Again the end to end play was the format. RCA winning early corners before the home side attacked down the right, full back McMann exchanging passes with Crew before moving into the box and hitting a great effort that Pickering in goal blocked well. Niall McCardle at left back cut out consecutive attacks minutes after. RCA lifted their game again and a great 6 man move ended up freeing Noble who raced onto goal but hit his effort well clear of the bar. Richards came onto replace Davis for RCA on the hour mark as both teams looked to control play. Oliver was booked for Hebburn and then Richards appeared to be harshly treated with a yellow which was in fact his first challenge of the match. Ryan Mather replaced Stewart to take the tally to five U18 players on the pitch as RCA looked to finish off the game. The next attack was by RCA down the left and a great cross to the back post found Mather who headed well but wide of the target.

The last 10 minutes saw a period as open as any other part of the game and whilst goals looked likely at either end it was Hebburn who netted again, a ball from wide right was hit into the box and Carroll raced in to flick the ball over the keeper for his second goal. 2 – 3 and the cup tie alive again. Richards was still driving forward and had three efforts on goal in the final minutes the best of which curling and smashing the bar with the keeper well beaten. Not to be outdone though the home side rallied for a final time and substitute Gary Dadd nearly took the tie to extra time racing in to hit a cracking 20 yard effort that also hit the angle.

A good cup tie was ended after 95 minutes and the result sees RCA take their place in the last 8 of a competition that they have been losing finalists in the last two seasons. Manager Neil Hixon admits the main priority is Promotion this year and resources will be aimed at keeping the team at the top of the league. Neutrals will be looking forward to more open cup ties such as this – the next one at home in the League Cup against First Division Shildon on Nov 25th ko 7.30 ko. Get your ticket quick – it will certainly be value for money!

21 November 2009

skilltrainingltd Northern League Div II

Whilst this was not classic by any stretch of the imagination it was another workmanlike performance and three points well earned. The two goal inside the first 20 minutes killed the game off and for all their endeavours Washington could not break down a resolute RCA Defence.

The game started in dramatic fashion when RCA took the lead after just 45 seconds, Paul Taylor, marking his first game back after injury, with a well taken goal when he pounced on a through ball from Davison before sliding the ball past the advancing Starford.

Washington could have been 2 - 0 down inside five minutes if Davison had been able to get on the end of a cross from Stewart as the ball sailed across the six yard box.

In the eighth minutes Lee Smith intercepted a pass inside the RCA half and unleashed a terrific strike from 25 yards out which hit the post.

RCA were starting to make inroads into the heart of the Washington defence and only some good defending by Lowden denied Halliday after some good work from Noble. A cross from Stewart was turned over the bar by Coghlan, but the same player made amends a minute later when a long clearance from Hoggeth was headed on by Davison to Taylor who threaded a pass to Coghlan who proceeded to chip the ball over Starford and into the net.

RCA were rampant at this stage of the game and Starford was called into action to parry a shot from Stewart.

Washington came more into the game in the final five minutes of the half, but Hoggeth in the RCA goal never had a shot to save.

Within three minutes of the restart Micky Coghlan limped off with a rib injury, which will probably keep him out of the mid week match against Shildon.

Smith had a decent chance to reduce the lead when he went on a mazy run beating three players before a great covering tackle from McGuinness stopped him getting in a shot. At the other end RCA were awarded a freekick and Stewart found Davison at the far post but his header was well saved by Starford.

RCA were dominating the midfield and looked likely to score on any number of occassions only for the final pass or shot to go awry. With 70 minutes gone a pass from McGuinness found Noble who turned the ball infield for Davison who hit a terrific shot which was brilliantly saved by the keeper. Minutes later Halliday burst into the box and looked odds on to score, but fired wide. Washington rallied and as RCA looked to tire they hit them on the break and both Hodgson and Donnelly had good opportunities but fired wide.

Their first shot on target in the second half came when Donnelly fired straight at Hoggeth in the 85th minute.

Special mention should go to the ground staff for presenting the best Meadow Park surface for many a year; it looks in extremely good nick.

25 November 2009

Brooks Mileson Memorial Cup

Sunderland RCA suffered their worst defeat of the season at home to Shildon in the Brooks Mileson Memorial Cup last night. A slick Shildon outfit killed off this tie in the first half with a scintillating display of football and some clinical finishing which left RCA with a mountain to climb in the second half. RCA probably shaded an entertaining second half but once again the finishing of Shildon's Andrew Johnson, who completed his hattrick, was the difference between the two teams.

Shildon looked comfortable from the start of this match with some slick fast passing which had RCA at sixes and sevens. The only surprise was that it took 12 minutes for them to register their first shot at goal when Lee Chapman fired in a shot which went narrowly wide. It only took another minute for them to take the lead when Johnson drove the ball into the bottom corner from 18 yards out. Within a minute they went 2 - 0 up when Johnson intercepted a defensive pass before finding Bell who hit another low shot into the same corner.

RCA were finding it difficult to create anything of note and there only shot on target was a header from Davison which looped into the arms of Finch. Stephen Halliday also had a half chance, but shot wide.

On 38 minutes Chris Bell, with a long ball from inside his own half set Andy Johnson free to run through and place the ball smoothly past Pickering to grab his second goal and make it 3 - 0 to Shildon.

In the second half RCA showed a lot more urgency and were unlucky not to pull one back when Shields crossed to the far post for Davison to power in a header which Finch did well to save at the second attempt.

RCA were, for the first time in the match, putting pressure on the back four of Shildon, but they were shaken in the 67 minute when Andy Johnson blasted home a right foot pile driver for Shildon's fourth goal and his hat-trick.

Both teams had further efforts on goal but none really trobled the respective goalkeepers until the 85th minute when Taylor was put through by Richards and the RCA sub sidefooted past Finch only to see the ball go narrowly wide of the far post.

28 November 2009

skilltrainingltd Northern League Division 2

RCA fielded a strong team for today's visit to Northallerton and a tremendously exciting game ended all square 1 - 1.

The early exchanges were even with both teams trying to get the ball down and play football. After 10 minutes the home side's centre back Grant Hickman had to be stretchered off with a badly damaged knee after a clash with Scott Richards.

The first real chance of the game saw Mark Davison fail to get enough power onto a header in the 19th minute.

Northallerton had a couple of good opportunities, first Chillingworth was thwarted by good tackle by Wardle before Thompson pounced on a loose ball to fire wide.

A long period of passing by RCA ended with a good cross from Davis being headed wide by Paul Taylor on 24 minutes.

Northallerton responded with two corners in quick succesion and exerted real pressure on the RCA Defence before Davis broke away on a great run, rounded Kell, the keeper, but saw his shot cleared off the line by Dacombe. The loose ball was crossed back in by Richards and Shields gave RCA the lead with a smart header at the back post with 32 minutes gone.

Taylor had the ball in the net on 36 minutes but was pullled up for offside. In 44 minutes RCA had a close shave as from a Northallerton corner the ball was volleyed in by Butterworth, crashed off a post and was scrambled clear. The ref allowed eight extra minutes for stoppages, but RCA got through to half time with their 1 0 lead intact.

The second half started with RCA mistakes giving Northallerton dangerous possession but they were unable to make it count. On 50 minutes a good move lead to a RCA corner from which Davisons header was cleared off the line.

On 55 minutes Scott Richards drove a free kick just over the bar from wide right and a minute later Taylor was released but his shot lacked power and Kell saved easily.

The threatened equaliser arrived on the 57th minute when Holliday converted a Chillingworth cross from close range with a spectacular volley.

On 60 minutes Stewart replaced Shields wide right for RCA and made an immediate impact earning a freekick on the edge of the box when making a dangerous run.

The game was wide open now as Davison brought a good save from Kell before Northallerton had a goal ruled out for offside. Then in 71 minutes Stewart was brought down in the box, unfortunately Davison dragged the spot kick wide.

McBryde replaced Taylor for the last ten minutes as RCA pressed for the win and it looked like Davison had decided things but his towering header went agonisingly wide.

The last few minutes saw Northallerton clinging on desperately, but they saw it out for a well earned draw.

5 December 2009

skilltrainingltd Northern League Division 2

In a game of constant attacking in both halves it is amazing how this game finished 0 - 0. Both teams had great chances and squandered them. From a neutral's view point they saw the best of North Shields in the first half and the best from RCA in second half.

The Game opened brightly enough with Stewart going past Luccock before sending in a terrific cross which evaded everyone including Robinson in the Shields' goal.

North Shields were unlucky not to take the lead after six minutes when a good move down the right saw Livermore pull the ball back for Taylor, but he fired wide from 12 yards out.

A strong challenge by Richards earned him an early yellow card and from the resulting free kick Amos headed wide.

In the 15th minute RCA had their best chance of the half when Stewart crossed to the far post and Noble, with the goal at his mercy, mis-timed his header and it went straight to Robinson. North Shields increased the pressure and only a fine save by Hoggeth from Smith kept RCA in the game. In a rare excursion forward Paul Taylor chested the ball into the path of the advancing Halliday, but his shot was comfortably saved by Robinson.

Cartwright was starting to pull the strings in midfield and a quick one-two with Minto resulted in a powerful shot going high and wide. Minutes later and some good interplay between Hay, Amos and Glen Taylor saw the ball crossed to Cartwright who hit his shot narrowly wide.

In the 33rd minute the defender hoodoo hit RCA again when Andy Reay was carried off with what looks like knee ligament damage. North Shields continued to press and in the dying minutes of the half both Minto and Hay had good opportunities to score. RCA defended well, but could count themselves lucky to be still in this game.

What a transformation in the second half; whatever was said in the half time team talk worked miraculously.

From the kick off Davis picked up the ball and drove at the Shields defence before slipping the bal to Davison who shot narrowly wide. From the the re start Mcardle won the ball and passed to Halliday who found Noble free on the right he crossed for Davison who's shot was blocked by Cartwright.
Halliday was taking command of the midfield and his passing was causing problems for the overstretched defence of North Shileds who must have wondered if RCA had put out different eleven in this second period.

On the hour mark Halliday found Taylor on the edge of the box and he turned and fired wide.
A minute later and the same combination were responsible for the RCA's best effort so far when a snap shot from Taylor beat Robinson but went agonisingly wide of the far post.

It was one way traffic at this stage and Shields could not even muster a worthwhile attack.

Davison had an effort blocked by Lullock before Taylor in a good position decided to shoot when a better option might have been to cross for the unmarked Davison or Richards.

Jones and Noble combined to set McBryde up, but his effort flew wide and in the closing stages Davison beat everyone to the ball inside the box but fired his shot straight at Robinson who saved with his legs.

12 December 2009

skilltraining Northern League Division 2

Sunderland RCA travelled to Team Northumbria for this reversed fixture and came away with all three points despite a few scares in the second half. On paper this should have been a comfortable match but Team Northumbria obviously hadn't read the script.

RCA had two new signings on the bench today, Martin O'Riordan signed from Horden and Sean Davies from Crook.

The opening exchanges were fairly even with neither keeper really being tested. In the 10th minute Stewart sent in a lovely cross which Davison flicked onto Taylor, but his effort went wide. Team had a good chance when Philippe found space on the right and cut inside only to see shot flash wide of the post.

With Team Nortumbria operating with a five man midfield RCA reverted to a long ball game effectively missing out the midfield and it worked to some effect when Jones sent in a long ball and it was headed on by Davison for Stewart, but his effort on goal was well saved by Jennison. Within a minute he was called upon again to save superbly from a Davison shot. However from the resulting corner RCA took the lead when Richards fired in from 10 yards.

Team Northumbria responded and a high ball into the box was allowed to bounce over the defenders heads, but Redhead put the ball over the bar from inside the six yard area.

Noble and Stewart were starting to make good runs on either flank and caused problems for the full backs. A good cross in from Noble found Taylor who laid the ball on for Halliday, but he fired wide.

Late in the first half Cairns fired wide from the edge of the box and Philippe headed straight at Hoggeth.

The second half saw both teams attacking with RCA just shading the exchanges, but both defences were holding firm with Donogue and Wilkinson outstanding for Team Northumbria.

Neither defender could do anything about RCA's second, which was an exquisite solo effort from Stewart; having beaten the full back, he cut inside and from the left hand corner of the 18 yard box curled the ball into the far corner of the net.

Once again Team Northumbria responded with some good football, but their final shots were never on target with Hoggeth only having to make one save.

O'Riordan replaced Noble to bring even more pace to the match and within a minute of his arrival he crossed for Davison, but he headed straight at Jennison.

Redhead had a great chance at the other end when he beat the offside trap, but with only the keeper to beat he dragged his shot wide.

Both teams played their part in an entertaining match. It is difficult to understand why Team Northumbria are in such a lowly position in the league because their general play is very good.

A friendly has been arranged for Wednesday against Silksworth FC at RCA's Welfare Park Ground.

Saturday, 23 January 2010

skilltrainingltd Northern League Division 2

RCA gave home débuts to no fewer than four new players: Christoph Ascherl, Darren Kokes, Sean Davies and Martin O'Riordan. Having had no games since 12 December it was no surprise that the two teams took a little while to get into their stride, but when RCA got into gear they romped away with all three points.

The opening exchanges of this match was fairly even with both teams taking time to get their passing game together. It was Hebburn who had the first shot on goal when Myers, fired in a low shot which flashed narrowly wide of the upright. Hebburn took heart from this and won two corners in quick succession, but they were well dealt with by Henderson and Wardle in the heart of the RCA Defence.

RCA took the lead with their first real shot at goal when Steven Stewart blasted in a shot, which took a wicked deflection, past Rogers.

RCA seemed to step up a gear and Kokes brought a fantastic save from Rogers and an O'Riordan cross was headed over the bar by Davison.

The game took a dramatic turn when the Referee awarded two penalties in the space of two minutes and dismissed Gray for violent conduct.

Stewart converted the first penalty to make it 2-0, but rattled the bar with the second and Kokes, who reacted the quickest, fired over the bar.

O'Riordan started to get more involved in the game and was putting in some good crosses and from one a glancing header from Davison was somehow headed of the line by Cowell.

Hebburn continued to look for openings going forward and Crew had a good chance when he was put into space by Brocklehurst, but Hoggeth saved well from a weak effort.

In the 28th minute Davison, who was having one of those games where he was doing everything right, but the end product was just off target or saved by the keeper, headed over a Stewart cross.

On the half hour mark RCA went 3-0 up when another cross from O'Riordan was met at the far post by Davison who, unselfishly, headed it back across goal for Ascherl to head home from close range. RCA were well on top now and Hebburn's cause was not helped by an injury to Greenwell.

In the 38th minute Kokes scored when he burst past two defenders before firing past the advancing Rogers.

Hebburn were forced to reorganise at the back when the injured Greenwell did not appear for the second half and was replaced by Nesbitt. It was a familiar pattern with Hebburn taking the early initiative with both Brocklehurst and Crew going close in the opening five minutes of the second half.
However it was not long before O'Riordan and Stewart started to weave their respective magic on the wings and Davison was unlucky once again to see a header brilliantly saved by Rogers and a minute later a fierce 25 yarder from the same player went narrowly over the bar.

In the 60th minute the Davison was replaced by McBryde and only a good save from Rogers denied him a goal with his first touch.

In the 63rd minute Kokes dispossessed Nesbitt before rounding the keeper to score his second of the match.

Taylor and Coghlan replaced Kokes and Ascherl who had both given a good account of themselves in their debut matches.

McBryde scored to make it 6-0, when he combined with Taylor for a tap in at the far post.

Hebburn should have score a minute later when Willie Crew was clear with only the keeper to beat, but Hoggeth made a superb save diving at the feet of Crew. Within a minute RCA were caught again on the break and only a covering tackle from Henderson stopped another shot from Crew.

Late in the game RCA wrapped the game up when Taylor volleyed home from eight yards out and then in the dying minuters of the match McBryde found the net for his second and RCA's eighth.

26 January 2010

skilltrainingltd Northern League Division 2

Sunderland RCA super sub Liam McBryde came on to score a late goal and deny Seaham Red Star a share of the spoils in the entertaining derby clash. Over 100 spectators witnessed an exciting match, which was a credit to the Northern League but more importantly a credit to both clubs.

Sunderland RCA were forced to make one change, bringing in Scott Richards to replace club captain Stephen Halliday in midfield. Seaham Red Star were looking to build upon their impressive draw against Guisborough Town at the weekend and started this match in impressive style putting pressure on the RCA players with their pace and endeavour.

In the third minute Winspear went past the RCA defence only to see his effort fly wide of the upright. RCA countered with Stewart crossing for Davison who headed straight at Barlow in the Seaham goal. Within a minute a cross from the other wing delivered by O’Riordan was brought down by Kokes who fed the ball to Davison to fire in a shot that went inches wide. It was a cracking opening five minutes and for those who thought it couldn’t be sustained think again. The game was end-to-end entertainment with both teams contributing to a pulsating match. When a pinpoint pass from Bettson found Hume free inside the box it looked odds on that Seaham would take the lead, but a great cover challenge from Wardle sent the ball for a corner and from the subsequent kick Jack headed over.

RCA started to play some good football without really penetrating the Seaham defence, but after 20 minutes a 35 yards snap shot from Henderson almost caught them out but it cannoned off the outside of the post for a goal kick. Kokes was causing all sorts of problems, with his pace and movement upsetting the Seaham defence. On 25 minutes Kokes laid the ball into the path of Richards who hit a tremendous curling shot which hit the post and again went for a goal kick. In another game RCA could have been 2 – 0 up, but the Seaham goal seemed to have a charmed life. Seaham responded with some good football between Hume and Winspear, with the latter striking a great shot which produced an equally great save from Hoggeth.

The second half saw Seaham pick up the momentum in the opening five minutes and Hoggeth had to be at his best making saves from first Winspear and then Armes.

RCA were awarded freekick on the edge of the box and a well rehearsed move saw Stewart fire wide from Richards kick. Within a minute O’Riordan broke on the left and fired in a shot which went narrowly wide. At the other end Armes broke past Henderson and fired in across which was met by Hume and only a goalline clearance by Davies prevented Seaham taking the lead.

McBryde replaced Davison on 70 minutes and within six minutes had broken the deadlock. A corner from O’Riordan looked to have been cleared only for it to hit Wardle and rebound to O’Riordan who sent in a low cross which was met at the front post by McBryde to steer past the helpless Barlow. This lifted RCA and they were unlucky not to double the lead when McBryde sent Kokes clear, but his shot went narrowly wide.

Seaham to their credit never gave up, but as the two teams tired it was RCA who looked the stronger and although both teams had good moves neither keeper was really called upon to make a save in the final five minutes of the match. Whilst Seaham probably did deserve a draw on the night, it was RCA who took the spoils and moved towards their goal of promotion. With other results on the night going our way it is now in our hands.

Saturday, 6 February 2010

skilltrainingltd Northern League Division 2

Sunderland RCA were made to work hard today by a well organised and very spirited Thornaby side. A goal from man of the match Darren Kokes in the 44th minutes settled the match and gave RCA all three points.

A minutes silence for the late Mr Gordon Nicholson was impeccably observed prior to the match.

Thornaby took advantage of the slope in the first half and immediately showed their intention with some slick attacking moves which had the RCA defence rocking. Gibson was the first with a shot which went narrowly wide before Fox mishit a shot from 12 yards out which went yards wide. RCA weathered the early pressure and responded with a shot from Kokes, which the keeper was pleased to see go wide. This was end-to-end football with both teams looking to go forward at every opportunity. Whilst the quality was not always evident you could not question the commitment of both teams.

RCA should have taken the lead when a a great run from Ascherl ended with a lovely cross into the path of McBryde, but his effort, with only the keeper to beat, was well wide of the upright. Thornaby went down the other end and a cross from Moore found Gibson unmarked in the box, but his downward header from two yards out was cleared off the line by Henderson. A minute later and a run and shot from Fox, who could have put Crossen through on goal had he looked up, went well wide. Five minutes later and Kokes rattled the bar after some excellent work on the left by Mcbryde.

Only a great last gasp tackle from Pearson stopped a certain RCA goal when Kokes was sent clear by Ascherl. Within a minute Davis went on a surging 40 yard run which ended in him crossing for Davison who headed over. RCA were, at this point, starting to get on top of the game and Thornaby were forced to defend.

In the final minute of the half Ascherl again sent Kokes clear of the Thornaby defence and this time he made no mistake with a beautiful lob over the keeper.

The second half saw RCA pressuring the Thornaby defence for long periods. A cross from McBryde was headed goalward by Davison but was cleared off the line by Pearson. Kokes, who was showing his class, was a constant thorn in the side of a well organised Thornaby defence. He was unlucky with a shot that was deflected wide and from the resulting corner Ascherl’s shot went narrowly wide.

Thornaby responded with a quick counter attack and Gibson forced a corner which was headed over.

Pearson and Bishop for Thornaby were performing heroics in keeping the RCA attack at bay and were pleased to see a surging run by Kokes end with a shot which struck the post.

Thornaby had only their second real chance of the second half when substitute Abdullah played in Gibson and from inside the box; he blasted his shot across goal but wide of the post.

For all their domination in the second half RCA could not break down the Thornaby defence and the match ended 1-0.

Wednesday, 10 February 2010

skilltrainingltd Northern League Division 2

Sunderland RCA kept their title dreams alive with a wonderful second half display which netted a hat trick for leading scorer Mark Davison.

Bottom of the table Birtley Town started the game well kicking down the slope and soon had RCA in trouble with a well worked move between Moat and Peterson resulted in the latter firing wide.

In the fifth minute RCA were awarded a corner and the resulting kick saw Hall power a header over the bar.

Birtley came back and were awarded a freekick on the edge of the box after a strong challenge from Hall. Peterson's shot was deflected for a corner. From this corner RCA countered and a through ball from Ascherl found Kokes inside the box; he looked to have gone round Hunter, the Birtley keeper, but somehow as Kokes fired in his shot Hunter managed to grab the ball - a brilliant save keeping the score level.

RCA mounted a bit of pressure and within the space of two minutes had great opportunities to score. First, Davis skipped past two defenders but his cross was too good for everyone and then Jones burst into the box only to be denied by a late lunge from Scott.

Birtley had a penalty appeal turned down when Roseby was brought down on the edge of the box, but the referee only awarded a freekick which was poorly taken.

RCA finished the half strongly and Ascherl was unlucky with a snap shot from a Davis cross which went over the bar.

The second half saw RCA start with more purpose, Coghlan firing over as early as the third minute. RCA took the lead after 50 minutes when a cross from Davies found Davison free inside the box and he was able to lob Hunter from 12 yards out.

Within five minutes it was 2 - 0 when Davis went on a mazy run before passing to Kokes who crossed the ball into the path of Davison who guided it past Hunter for his second.

Both teams continued to attack and had chances to score but failed to make either keeper make a save until the 75th minute when a screamer from Nugent looked to be heading into the top corner, however Hoggeth somehow managed to get a hand on the ball and turn it over the bar for a corner. Birtley, sensing a goal piled forward, but RCA managed to scramble the ball clear.

McBryde was unlucky when a header from a Davis corner went narrowly over the bar.

In the 82nd minute a surging run by Ascherl was abruptly ended when he was fouled 25 yards from goal. Up stepped Davison to rifle the ball home for his hat trick to make it 3-0.

Within a minute it really should have been 4-0 when McBryde squared the ball to Taylor inside the six yard box and he somehow blasted the ball over the bar.

Don't be surprised to see Steve Bruce at our next match with six clean sheet in a row in the league and unbeaten since November, he might need some tips from Mr Hixon.

Saturday, 13 February 2010

skilltrainingltd Northern League Division 2

Sunderland RCA suffered only their third defeat of the season at the hands of a very hard working and organised Whickham team, but it could have been so different if they had been able to convert any of about five chances in the first 20 minutes.

Sunderland RCA started this game on fire putting Whickham under pressure from the off. A Stewart cross after four minutes found Kokes, but he steered his shot wide of the upright. A Davison shot which looked destined for the net was saved by Robinson at the expense of a corner and Stewart's corner kick was headed over by Hall.

Whickham counterattacked through Swanson, but Jones was equal to the task and set up another RCA attack, a superb pass found Ascherl just inside the box who in turn found Stewart who tried to cut the ball back into the path of Davison, but the ball was cleared. In making this pass Stewart was injured and had to be replaced.

This gave Whickham the chance to start again and as RCA's game became narrow they were able to cope easily with most of RCA's game play and towards the end of the half put RCA under pressure with a series of dead ball situations where Patterson went close with a low shot.

The second half was a very even affair with both teams attacking whenever possible.

In the 63rd minute RCA looked to have broken the deadlock when Davison rattled in a shot from 10 yards out after some good link up play. The goal was ruled out when the assistant referee ruled that Davis had handled the ball in the box when it was clearly the hand of Wilkinson the Whickham defender.

With 12 minutes remaining Whickham took the lead. Robson evaded two challanges before drilling the ball low into the bottom corner. RCA responded with two great efforts, Davison inside the box turned and fired in but Robinson was equal to the task. In the final minutes Robinson produced another top draw save from Davison turning the shot round the post.

Whickham held out for a well fought win although RCA can feel agrieved not to have at least come away with a point.

Saturday, 20 February 2010

skilltrainingltd Northern League Division 2

Sunderland RCA recalled Paul Wardle, Scott Richards and Sean Davies into the first eleven and the effect was immediate with RCA almost back to their early season best. In the first 20 minutes they tore the heart out of Guisborough scoring three fantastic goals and the game was killed off.

An amazing start to this game saw RCA take the initiative as early as the second minute when a pass from McBryde found Ascherl free on the edge of the box and he delicately curled the ball into the top corner with Escritt rooted to the spot. Two minutes later and a shot from Kokes was turned away for a corner and and from McBryde's kick Hall powered in a header which rattled the bar.

Davison made the score 2-0 with a spectacular overhead kick which left Escritt helpless as it hit the net. RCA were rampant at this point and Guisborough were unable to cope with the constant pressure. A good run by Kokes beat two players before he passed to Ascherl who fired narrowly wide from 18 yards.

In the 15th minute RCA effectively sealed the win with a superb lobbed shot from Richards who received the ball 25 yards out before unleashing the dipping effort which gave Escritt no chance.

Guisborough did not give up and a lovely pass fron Portas found Onions in space, but Hoggeth closed him down and his shot drifted wide of the upright. RCA, though, were in command and were looking to increase their lead and only some excellent defending from Butterworth prevented McBryde from scoring. Towards the end of the first half Guisborough started to get to grips with the midfield, but they were not creating any chances as RCA restricted them to long range efforts.

In the last minute of the first half Guisborough were awarded a free kick, which was crossed into the box by Roberts but was easily dealt with by Hall.

The second half saw a much improved performance from Guisborough, with Portas and Onions posing a threat, but they were still unable to fashion a worthwhile effort on goal. At the other end Kokes was unlucky with and effort that was deflected wide for a corner and Hall once again headed the corner high over the bar.

Portas and Roberts combined for Guisborough and Roberts' shot had Hoggeth scrambling to make the save.

In the 70th minute it looked certain that RCA would increase their lead when a quick one-two between Jones and McBryde found Jones inside the six yard box, but his shot was brilliantly saved by Escritt.

Inside the last five minutes and Escritt was well beaten by a McBryde thunderbolt, but the ball rebounded off the post to safety.

In the final minute Harrison Davies, who had been extremely quiet all game, put in a telling cross but both onions and Roberts missed the ball.

RCA back to their best in the first 20 minutes and able to keep yet another clean sheet.

Wednesday, 3 March 2010

skilltrainingltd Northern League Division 2

Two of the top three met in a terrific end-to-end encounter which first swung in favour of the Marske United but then as the game progressed it was Sunderland RCA who came into the game and finished by far the stronger. The only disappointment for the fans was the fact that it ended goalless.

Steve Stewart came back into the side. The pitch was very sticky and the first half was very evenly contested, with few chances for either side.

Ash Davies went close for RCA and Ben Thompson was a constant threat for Marske, but it was 0-0 at the break.

The second half saw Marske start the stronger, but as the game went on RCA got on top and Darren Kokes went close from close range on a couple of occasions.

Ash Davies caused real trouble with his running on the left and Marske were the more relieved side to hear the final whistle as an entertaining game finished goalless.

Saturday, 6 March 2010

skilltrainingltd Northern League Division 2

Sunderland RCA took all three points in a hard fought match against a very competitive, young Brandon United team who never stopped trying. In the end RCA proved too strong for Brandon who tired as the game entered the final 10 minutes and RCA took advantage to move five points clear at the top of the division.

Brandon were quickly into their passing game and a good spell of early possession ended with a shot from Bowman being well saved by Hoggeth.

The game then became scrappy with the ball being given away cheaply by both teams and the game got bogged down in a midfield battle. Brandon had a free kick 25 yards out, but Fothergill fired his shot straight at the RCA wall and the danger was cleared.

As the half progressed RCA started to penetrate the Brandon defence and after some good work by Richards, Ascherl was sent clear, but his attempt at lobbing the keeper went narrowly wide.

Within a minute Ascherl, who was playing in a more advanced role today, fired in a shot which was well saved by Myers.

Quick interplay between Jones and Ascherl should have been rewarded with a goal but the final shot from Jones flew over the bar.

RCA were almost caught in the final minute of the half when a crossfield ball found Bowman who tried a cheeky first time shot from fully 40 yards out which cleared the bar and landed on the roof of the net.

O'Riordan replaced Davis at half time and made an immediate impact, beating two players before crossing into the box for Stewart, but he fired over from five yards out.

Brandon broke out and a searching ball from Bramley found Verity free on the edge of the box and he fired in a low shot which scraped the foot of the upright.

The game was starting to open up now with RCA forcing their opponents to defend deep. A right wing corner was not cleared and Hall sent in a fierce shot which Myers was equal to.

The game changed dramatically with the introduction of Coghlan, with almost his first touch of the ball he hit the bar with the keeper well beaten. Five minutes later a pass from Ascherl found Coghlan on the right and his crossshot was magnificently saved by Myers at the expense of a corner. Coghlan took the corner and found Hall, unmarked, 12 yards out, and he thundered home his header.

As Brandon weakened RCA started to press for a second, but were denied by some good defensive work by Guy and Newby.

RCA were maybe feeling the effects of a hard match at Marske, but Brandon aquitted themselves well today.

Special mention must be made to RCA's defensive record this season: 14 clean sheets (8 in the last 9 games) must be a club record, if not a second division one.

Wednesday, 10 March 2010

Ernest Armstrong Memorial Cup

North Shields progressed to the semi final of the Ernest Armstrong Cup with this comprehensive win against a below par RCA team. The result was rarely in doubt after "Shields" opened the scoring within the opening two minutes.

A crossfield ball found Wright free and his cross to the far post evaded everybody except Akinbolu who bundled the ball home.

RCA responded with a shot from O'Riordan which was tipped over the bar by Robinson and a minute later the same player thought he had scored only for Farman to clear off the line keeper Robinson beaten.

More good chances then came for "The Robins" with Hay heading over and then he had a goal disallowed after a great move.

Ascherl was unlucky not to level the scores when he steered a Coghlan freekick inches wide and in the final minute of the half Davison fired staright at the keeper.

The second half didn't liven up until the 60th minute when Jones fired just wide. Then with 20 minutes remaining North shileds were awarded a freekick which Rassmussen blasted into the net aided by a goalkeeping error.

Robbie Livermore made it 3-0 when he dribbled into the box and knocked the ball past Hoggeth. Robinson finished the scoring with a deft header from an excellent Nellis cross.

RCA continued to put pressure on the North Shields defence but didn't really trouble the keeper.
Mention must be made concerning the great vocal turn out by the "Red Ultras"; North Shields' travelling fans were a credit to their team.

Saturday, 13 March 2010

skilltrainingltd Northern League Division 2

RCA entertained Stokesley in a vital top of the table clash, and the big news before kick off was former RCA centre forward Andy Jennings pulling up in the warm up and having to drop to the bench.

Courtesy of the Sunday Sun reporter Steve Brown: Match report:

An “absolute cracker” one would be “daft to miss”, promised the programme. It was right, as Sunderland stoked their promotion flames while Stokesley demonstrated sufficient to suggest that despite defeat in Ryhope, hope floats. Some game too. Five goals, two sendings-off, a penalty. Heated disagreement between dug-out and crowd, two balls in the neighbouring cemetery and another in a small girl’s face. It had everything and, for victorious boss Neil Hixon, satisfaction at the death. “That’s a massive win for us, we needed it if we have any aspirations to win the league,” he said, his side leading Northern League Division Two by five points from Jarrow Roofing, but nine now ahead of yesterday’s visitors, fourth with games in hand.

“It was a good game between two good sides but I think we deserved to win and they’re three big points for us.” They never looked like claiming any at the outset, as in-form Stokesley – 14 league wins on the bounce before last week’s draw with Newton Aycliffe – ought to have romped into a three-goal lead courtesy of Turkish Under-21 international Lev Yalcin. “That’s three glorious chances he’s p****d away,” bemoaned Frustrated, of Stokesley.

Home keeper Gary Hoggeth kept Yalcin, and Paul Crager’s header, at bay before Richard Hope fired across the face of goal, and by then Sunderland had at least served some notice of their attendance at least, Mark Davison and Liam McBryde heading at Rob Dean. Then though RCA, imploded.

A difference of opinion between a spectator and RCA boss Hixon saw the former vacate Meadow Park and the latter exit the dug-out. Something and nothing, you sensed.

Yet moments later Hoggeth’s 32nd-minute throw struck the back of unwitting team-mate McBryde and fell kindly to Bryan Stewart, who sprang clear to score. Credit though to the hosts, for they re-gathered composure, and took control. Six minutes later Davison headed in McBryde’s arrowed cross, the goalscorer then volleyed wide and ex-Gateshead star Christoph Ascherl fired at Dean before Darren Kokes ought to have scored in added time. Though before then Stewart and McBryde might also have handed Stokesley the lead again, the second half belonged – largely – to Sunderland.

Three minutes after the restart McBryde hit the foot of the post, then after Stokesley’s Stuart Wise was dismissed for a second bookable offence, Davison saw headers tipped and fly over, Stephen Halliday shot wide, Martin O’Riordan volleyed over and, finally, on 73 minutes, all that pressure paid. O’Riordan sent Kokes down the left, his nifty turn left Crager for dead and set up Scott Richards for a simple finish.
Game over, surely. But from near nowhere Stokesley seized a lifeline.

Hope’s threaded through ball put Stewart clear, only for the winger to be impeded by Steven Jones, who was red-carded as Yalcin equalised from the penalty spot.

So a draw then. Seems fair, keeps things interesting.

Sunderland had other ideas though, and on 85 minutes Halliday’s careering run took him past two opponents before a slid pass allowed Davison – who had just curled a free-kick wide – to ram the winner past Dean.

“I’m very disappointed, we should have had it won after 25 minutes but missed a lot of chances,” said Stokesley manager Ted Watts.

“We did enough for a point but that’s our first loss in 19 games.

“You don’t want to lose against a promotion rival but we’ll bounce back, I’m confident of that.”

Saturday, 20 March 2010

skilltrainingltd Northern League Division 2

Sunderland RCA FC should have bagged all three points at Whitehaven and only two monumental errors by a better than average referee denied us. His first was in denying Davison his hat trick when he headed home. Reason given was a pull on the goalkeeper's jersey by an unknown player. The second was in the last minute of the game when Shields was fouled just outside the box, he gave a non existent advantage as Whitehaven had the ball and they scored from the long ball out of defence.

Sunderland RCA started this match fantastically well putting Whitehaven under pressure from the off. In the third minute a slick one-two between McBryde and Kokes set up Davison, but he fired wide.

RCA took the lead on 11 minutes when Hall took the ball past a Whitehaven defender before crossing for Davison to volley home from 10 yards out.

Whitehaven's first effort on goal came in the 15th minute, when a smart passing move resulted in a long range effort from Shaw which was easily saved by Hoggeth. Immediately RCA went up the other end and Kokes rounded the keeper before shooting only to see his effort blocked by Lewis. RCA were dominating the play and Whitehaven were guilty of giving the ball away in key areas. McBryde and O'Riordan were a constant threat on the wings and their balls into the box were causing major problems for a shaky Whitehaven defence.

Davison scored his second when he was the quickest to respond to a shot from O'Riordan which struck the underside of the bar and bounced for him to head home from close range,

In the 43 minute Hoggeth was called into action for the second time of the half when he saved from Shaw again.

The second half started much the same as the first with RCA attacking and Whitehaven reduced to counter attacking.

In the 50th minute O'Riordan was unlucky to see a shot from the edge of the box clear the bar by inches and a minute later a Davison freekick was well saved by Miller. Connolly then tested Hoggeth as he skipped past two defenders before firing straight at the keeper. Kokes had a glorious chance to make it 3 - 0 when he was sent clear by McBryde, but his shot was well saved by Miller.

The game turned in the 78th minute when the referee disallowed what looked like a perfectly good goal which would have given Davison his hat trick. Whitehaven took advantage of the situation and Connolly was allowed to much room to get in a shot which beat Hoggeth low dow and nestled in the bottom corner.

In the 83rd minute Davison once again headed goalwards only to see Miller, at full stretch, tip the ball onto the bar and away for a corner.

With the 90 minutes up the referee decided to give a non-existent advantage when Shields was up-ended and Miller fired the ball forward to Connolly who finished with some aplomb from 25 yards out.

RCA should have had this game wrapped up well before the 80th minute, but it just goes to show that missed chances will cost points at this stage of the season.

Saturday, 27 March 2010

skilltrainingltd Northern League Division 2

An early morning pitch inspection was required after the torrential rain of the last few days. Once it was decided to play then it was game on against two teams who only seven days earlier had fought out a 2 - 2 draw. The srong wind was always going to be a factor in this match, but neither team took full advantage of it.

RCA took advantage of the wind and the slope in the first half and were quickly on the attack, Hall sent a searching pass into the path of Kokes who shot over. The wind was causing problems to both teams with the ball running away from players and the difficult conditions underfoot were making it impossible to play attractive football.

A bit of good fortune stopped Whitehaven taking a bizarre lead when a cross from Robson went over Hoggeth's head, but hit the top of the crossbar.

In the 18th minute Jones latched onto a McBryde pass and fired in a 30 yarder that screamed past Fryer in the Whitehaven goal, but hit the crossbar and went out for a goalkick.

Danger man Robson went close again after 30 minutes, forcing a good save from Hoggeth and in the closing minutes of the first half O'Riordan crossed into the box and Davison headed narrowly wide when he looked odds on to score.

Whitehaven started the second half positively probably bouyed by the fact that they had not conceded in the first half.

In the 50th minute Donnald burst past the RCA defence, but with only the keeper to beat he sent his shot wide. The effect of this miss was to lift the game of RCA who poured forward and Davison was unlucky with a powerful header which flew over the bar. Then a shot from McBryde almost deceived Fryer when it hit a divot, but the keeper did well to readjust his position and make the save.

RCA piled on the pressure and a corner from McBryde was flicked on at the near post by Davison, but it was cleared off the line by Johnson.

Whitehaven almost scored against the run of play when Shaw received a good through ball from Holliday but fired well over the bar.

Then within the space of 30 seconds Davison had two great headers. The first went wide off a defender and from the resulting corner he headed downward and looked to have beaten the keeper but somehow he got a hand to if and it went over the bar for a corner.

In the last five minutes RCA almost self-destructed when a Hall backpass to Hoggeth was intercepted by Holliday, but Hoggeth was able to stay on his feet long enough to stop the Whitehaven captain getting in a cross and the danger was averted.

Marske moved to the top of the table and RCA drop to second for the first time since October.

Saturday, 3 Aprill 2010

skilltrainingltd Northern League Division 2

Sunderland RCA went back to the top of Division 2 with this win against lowly Darlington RA. However they did not have it all their own way. Darlington gave as good as they got in the first half and took a surprise lead and could have doubled it before RCA turned on the style.

A torrential hailstorm greeted the players at the start of the match and it soon became clear that the pitch would cut up badly. RCA were finding it difficult to adapt their passing style on a sticky pitch and it was RA who seemed to revel in the conditions early on with Donalson causing problems down the left and Abel holding the ball up front. Eventually RCA got it together and should have taken the lead when a Stewart cross was met at the far post by O' Riordan, but he somehow managed to steer the ball wide of the opposite post.

RA took the lead when O'Riordan was dispossed on the halfway line and the ball was quickly fed to Abel who made no mistake from 12 yards out. This was a wake up call for RCA and they pushed forward, but could not seem to do the simple things well and were getting caught with smart counter attacks from RA.

In the 25th minute Kokes went past two defenders and fired in a shot which Moody was equal to, the resulting corner was headed over by Hall.

RA almost doubled their lead when another defensive mistake saw Freary release Donaldson on the left and his cross was met by Abel who looked to fire home, but Hoggeth got down to turn it round the post for a corner.

RCA were level after 38 minutes when a through ball from Richards found O'Riordan and he cooly curled the ball into the top corner.

This was the start of some sustained pressure from RCA and both McBryde and Kokes were unlucky with efforts that went narrowly wide. When they did get shots on target, Moody was saving them with ease.

The sun tried to make an apppearance for the second half and RCA certainly did with a blistering assault on the RA goal. A through ball from Halliday found McBryde in space and his shot was inches over the bar. O'Riordan was having a field day on the left and on three occasions he went past the full back but could not get an effective cross in.

In the 52nd minute a clipped through ball by Halliday was handled inside the box and a penalty was awarded; O'Riordan stepped up and blasted the ball home.

Two minutes later and the same player was clear of the defence the simple pass to Kokes or McBryde was on but he went for glory and hit the side netting.

RCA were rampant now and RA could not get the ball out of their own half. The whole RA Back four were being pulled apart, but RCA were squandering chances and while it was still 2 - 1 RA were in with a shout. The longer the game went on the more RA turned the tide and came back into the game and Hoggeth had to be at his best to hold a fierce shot from Freary.

In the 80th minute Coghlan replaced Kokes and with his first touch made the score 3 -1 when he found space in the box to steer the ball past the helpless Moody. Two minutes later and he latched onto a through ball from Davies and fired home at the back post. Two goals in two minutes with two touches of the ball: an inspirational substitution, playing a central midfield schemer as a make-shift centre forward.

With the game over RCA played out the remainder of the match in comparative ease.

Wednesday, 7 April 2010

skilltrainingltd Northern League Division 2

A first half hat-trick from Liam McBryde set RCA on the way to a comfortable away win against a struggling Crook Town team. The score could easily have been more but RCA were guilty of squandering a hat full of chances.

The Crook Town team that turned out tonight bore no resemblance to the one that played so well in the early part of the season, but to their credit they played some decent football without really troubling a solid RCA defence.

RCA took the lead when the Crook defence failed to clear a Stewart corner and McBryde was on hand to volley home from eight yards out. Stewart should have made it 2-0 within minutes but his weak shot was easily saved by Carr. Richards set up Kokes with a lovely though ball but the ex-Crook striker fired wide.

On 20 minutes Halliday was unlucky when he fired in a shot after a good header from Hall found him free, but his shot was cleared by Kime.
Kime and Wilson were performing heriocs at the heart of the Crook defence, but could only stand and watch as McBryde headed home a Noble freekick after 33 minutes. Five minutes later McBryde completed his hat trick when Kokes beat a defender before laying the ball off for the simplest of tap ins.

In the dying minutes of the half Taylor hammered in a shot from 35 yards which hit the post with the RCA defence looking on in disbelief. Within five minutes of the restart Stewart had fired a shot high over the bar and both Kokes and Richards had half chances.

In the 56th minute it was the Kokes, McBryde combination that struck again with McBryde bundling over a pass from Kokes. Crook responded and forced a corner which was taken by Laverick and only a goalline clearance from Davies prevented Wilson from scoring.

McBryde was replaced by Davison and with his first touch he found Stewart with a perfectly weighted pass and the winger bore down on goal before firing past Carr from 10 yards out.

Crooks only remaining contribution to the game was a 20 yard shot from Hanson which went narrowly wide and some good passing and movement without any real penetration.

The only downside to the night was the injury sustained by Henderson which looks like a hamstring problem which could mean the end of his season if confirmed.

Saturday, 10 April 2010

skilltrainingltd Northern League Division 2

Sunderland RCA maintained their push for promotion with this hard fought win against a strong Northallerton Town team. The cause was not helped by the dismissal of Scott Richards after four minutes for violent conduct. However the remaining ten men dug deep and when Hoggeth saved a Northallerton penalty after ten minutes they rose to the occasion.

Sunderland RCA are becoming skilled at doing things the hard way, five minutes into the game they were down to ten men, when Richards was dismissed for violent conduct when he retaliated after a late tackle from Richard Thompson in front of the referee who had no option but to send him off.

Click here for a slideshow of photos from the match

Northallerton Town were passing the ball well and were making the extra man tell and on 13 minutes were awarded a penalty when Halliday was alledged to have fouled Allison inside the penalty area. Hoggeth made a superb save to deny Smurthwaite's well struck spot kick.

This seemed to lift RCA and they went on the offensive, a cross from Stewart was headed inches wide by Kokes and when a shot from McBryde came back off the keeper Kokes was there to stab home from close range.

The home side then took control and it was difficult to see who was playing with a man short. they were were passing the ball really well and when McBryde turned and shot it took a great save from Thompson to put it round the post. His relief was short lived as Stewart swung in the corner and Hall rose at the back post to power a header home.

RCA continued to put some good moves together and it took a smart save from Thompson just before half time to deny McBryde once again.
The early exchanges in the second half were won by Northallerton Town and only a great save from Hoggeth from Allison kept the scoreline at 2-0. Minutes later and Chillingworth fired high over the bar when he should have done better. At the other end Stewart fired well over the bar when in a decent position.

In the 55th minute Northallerton must have realised it wasn't going to be their day when a Bowman shot from 35 yards out struck the bar and then Butterworth fired a shot inches wide of the goal.

As RCA weakened Joe Fairish started to pull some strings in the centre of midfield and he was unlucky with a shot that went wide. With Winter and Smurthwaite playing well for Northallerton at the back RCA created little going forward but to their credit the 10 men worked hard to ensure that they kept a clean sheet.

Given the circumstances surrounding the first 15 minutes of this game RCA proved that they are force to be reckoned with and ran out deserved 2-0 winners in the end. However it must be said that our discipline could be the key factor in the final push for promotion. We need to keep 10 men on the park and stop the silly booking.

Wednesday, 14 April 2010

skilltrainingltd Northern League Division 2

RCA failed to take their chances in an entertaining match against Newton Aycliffe and left empty handed despite having the lion's share of the match.

Newton Aycliffe scored just before half time and despite being reduced to 10 men, when Riatt was dismissed for a second bookable offence, held on for the win.

RCA started slowly and allowed Newton Aycliffe to get on top in the opening 10 minutes and only some desperate defending stopped Gardner from opening the scoring when he was sent clear by Raitt.

Hoggeth was called into action to stop a shot from Woodhouse just before a splendid ball from Jones found O'Riordan in the box, but instead of taking his time he lashed the ball well wide of the target. RCA started to get into the game more after this and Aycliffe were forced to defend deep and break quickly. A cross from Stewart found Davison unmarked but his header went straight to Richardson in the Aycliffe goal.

Within a minute RCA should have been 1 - 0 up when an exquisite ball into the box from Stewart found Taylor inside the six yard box with an open goal but he mis-hit the ball wide of the target. A succession of poor corners followed and set the tone for the rest of the night.

Taylor was guilty of another glaring miss as the game neared half time and the pendulum swung in Aycliffes direction on the stroke of half time when they were awarded a freekick on the edge of the area. After a delay while the referee spoke to Richards, Riatt fired the ball into the top corner giving Hoggeth no chance.

RCA started the second half by upping the pace of the game and almost equalised when Aycliffe failed to clear their lines and a shot from O'Riordan went narrowly over the bar.

A mistimed tackle saw the dismissal of Riatt for a second bookable offence and hearalded the start of an avalanche of chances for RCA. However the luck was obviously with Aycliffe as time after time their defenders cleared dangerous crosses into the box. Both Close and Stout were outstanding.

With time ticking away a cross from Stewart found Davis at the far post but he fired against the post.
Davison had the ball in the net with 5 minutes to go but was adjudged to have used his hand to control the ball.

Richardson was called upon to pull off the save of the game in the last minute hurling himself at a shot from McLeod and tipping it away for a corner.

RCA probably deserved something out of this game, but at the end of the day their finishing let them down.

Four points from three games: looks like it is going down to the wire unless Marske get beaten.

Saturday, 17 April 2010

skilltrainingltd Northern League Division 2

Sunderland RCA FC are promoted after winning today as Marske United FC were beaten by Seaham Red Star FC.

A great day in the history of Sunderland RCA and the second half performance by the players today was at times breathtaking. North Shields, to their credit, did not come to Meadow Park to defend and for periods in the game did well but in the end the result could have been 4 or 5 - 1.

The manager brought in experienced defender Matthew Hysen for his first start at Meadow Park to replace Daryll Hall.

The game started in dramatic fashion when, after 30 seconds, a bad bounce evaded Shields captain Smith and let in McBryde but his first time effort was easily saved by Robinson.

RCA were intent on attacking and a cross from O'Riordan found Kokes, but his effort was blocked by Elliott. A corner from Stewart was not cleared by the Shields defence and the ball fell to McBryde who stabbed the ball through a crowd of players, but straight at Robinson.

Within a minute Akinbolu thought he had opened the scoring when he brushed aside Jones to fire past Hoggeth, but the officials deemed that he had fouled Jones in the process.

The game was held up for five minutes when Livermore landed awkwardly and was unable to continue, he was taken to hospital to have his arm checked over. Substitute Harris almost made an instant impact when he fired narrowly wide with his first tough of the ball.

A long ball was headed out of defence by Smith, but was picked up on the half way line by Wardle who strode forward with the ball before unleashing a tremendous shot which dipped under the crossbar, giving Robinson no chance. 1-0 at half time and although RCA had not played that well they probably just deserved to be in front.

The start of the second half saw RCA make defensive changes a reshuffle in the back four meant that Jones went to his more customary right back slot and Ash Davis was introduced at left back.

RCA got into gear straight away with Stewart forcing a save from Robinson and soon after McBryde fired narrowly over after some good build up play between Stewart and Halliday. Shields came back into the game with Hay shooting narrowly wide from 20 yards out and then catastrophe as Wardle, the hero of the first half, handled inside the penalty area when the ball looked to be going for a goal kick. Hay stepped up and scored from the spot.

It was that man Hay again who almost doubled his tally when he beat the offside trap but fire well over the bar.

RCA were finding it difficult to live with Shields and in particular Hay in this 10 minute spell. Weather the storm they did and when Kokes fired home it looked all over, unfortunately the assistant disallowed the goal. The reprieve was short lived as within five minutes Kokes pounced on a misunderstanding between Robinson and Smith to steer the ball into an empty net. It was all RCA now as they went to kill the game off a shot from Halliday went narrowly wide and Davison's brilliant strike rebounded off the post.

In the 87th minute RCA went 3-1 up when McLeod stabbed the ball home after a goal mouth scramble. By then news had drifted through that near neighbours Seaham Red Star FC had beaten Marske United and the promotion celebrations were underway.

Saturday, 24 April 2010

skilltrainingltd Northern League Division 2

Sunderland RCA were blitzed by a 20 minute hat trick at the start of the second half from substitute Mark McCutcheon who was then himself subsutituted (Job Done). RCA never looked likely to score after Davison's early header was saved by Jennison.

Second place in the table is still possible as Jarrow Roofing lost. However, congratulations go to Stokesley who secured the League Championship with a win against North Shields.

The game started slowly with neither team looking to move the ball forward although they did play some good football it was mainly in defence and midfield. The first chance came after 10 minutes when a cross from Davis found Davison unmarked inside the six yard box but his header struck the leg of Jennison and rebounded to safety. Marwood then set Fenwick up, but with only Hoggwth to beat he fired straight at the RCA Keeper.

The rest of the half saw a half chance fall to Davison who fired wide and McLeod shot high over the bar from 18 yards out.

Marwood had a speculative effort that needed to be palmed over the bar by Hoggeth.

Team Northumbria played the Ace when they brought on McCutcheon at half time.

After 50 minutes Carrick rattled the inside of the post with an excellent freekick and Jones was forced to clear the rebound off the line. Two minutes later and Carrick again was unlucky with a shot that went narrowly wide.

Within two minutes of Davis going off with an injury Team Northumbria took the lead, a cross from Marwood was met at the back psot by McCutcheon and he steered his header well wide of Hoggeth.

Five minutes later and it was 2 - 0 this time Donoghue skipped past Jones, before crossing for McCutcheon to slot home from five yards out.

RCA were all over the place, but were able to muster a semblance of an attack when Davison shot but Jennison was equal to it. Worse was to come for RCA when once again they could not stop a cross from the right, this time it was Petts who found McCutcheon and he headed home.

With the job done McCutcheon was substituted. RCA then conceded in the 88th minute when Cairns fired across a crowded area and his shot found the far corner. This was one that RCA will want to forget. They did not win one battle throughout the team.

Saturday, 1 May 2010

skilltrainingltd Northern League Division 2

Sunderland RCA finished off their promotion winning campaign with a below par performance against the team who we played in the first game of the season.

The first 20 minutes of this encounter were very even with neither keeper being tested and the game bogged down in midfield. RCA then got on top and Stewart was unlucky when he cut inside his defender and unleashed a shot which went narrowly over the bar. Minutes later and McBryde set up Kokes, but his shot was saved by Little. On 30 minutes the Gillford keeper was called into action again when he tipped a Stewart free kick over the bar.

Having weathered the storm Gillford got back into the game and Johnstone fired over before Hoggeth was tested for the first time when a low shot from Riding was well saved.

RCA upped the tempo at the start of the second half and looked to be well on top in the opening ten minutes, but the combination of poor finishing and some good defending left them without a goal and in the 68th minute they were punished when a back pass from Hyson bounced awkwardly and Hoggeth was forced to head clear, however the ball went directly to Grainger who fired into an empty net from 25 yards out.

RCA were forced onto the back foot as Gillford took heart from the goal and Hoggeth brought off a world class save to deny Addison who was sent clear by johnstone. The game then fizzled out with little else of note and the celebrations began.

A special mention to the committee, players and supporters of Gillford Park FC for making our first visit to The Gillford Park Stadium a very enjoyable one obviously the result was not what we wanted, but everything else was excellent.