New signing Sam Robinson turns with the ball during a first half attack by RCA in Thursday evening's pre season game at AFC Killingworth.
After having me tea at Bob and Thelma's, I made my way to Amberley Playing Fields for the pre season friendly against AFC Killingworth, who had kindly agreed to reverse the original fixture. The home club, the product of a recent merger between Killingworth YPC and Killingworth Town, have had a great start to their pre season, beating fellow North Tyneside club Cullercoats 8 - 1.
Killingworth took the lead after six minutes. From inside RCA's penalty area, the ball was crossed from the home side's right and was knocked home by Dan Stephenson - a good name for this neck of the woods. Colin Larkin equalised by blasting the ball home on 15 minutes, giving the keeper little or no chance. Killingworth retook the lead a minute later, Martin Roper breaking clear on the left to score. RCA had to wait until the 42nd minute for Mark Davison to use his strength to turn and score, making it 2-2 at half time.
RCA were more dominant in the second half of the match and had more than a few opportunities to score, but it wasn't until a few minutes from time that Luke Page turned to hit home across the keeper from the corner of the six yard box, after Killingworth had failed to clear.
AFC Killingworth have an effective combination of youth and experience and they show desire, commitment and not a little feistiness. They will be looking foward to their season.
Another important work out in the build up to Saturday, 4 August and our home game against Newcasle Benfield, with new signings Dom Moan, Sam Lilley and Sam Robinson busying themselves and looking the part. And, in the second half, it was good to see Phil Hall back in the RCA red and white.