8 September 2008
On the eve of the trip to York City, club Chairman Owen Haley beings us up to date with progress for the Under 18s.
It’s certainly been lively on the SRCA youth front and there have been extended numbers enjoying the pre-season build up and looking to break into our Under 18 side.
At least 35 players have put pen to paper and fancy their chances of making the grade, the hard part for Colin Stokoe and myself is picking the team, as there are at least two players for every position. I for one though am not complaining as last season was a big struggle and we certainly don’t want to be repeating that league position of occupying bottom. The only way is up!
The Durham pre-season tournament in August went better than expected, although we did lose out to Ryhope CW in the semi final in a very close game – the score line was 2-3. However that shows our progress as last year we were not nearly as close in league encounters, as our neighbours easily won home and away matches.
A few scouts have been watching developments in recent weeks and the management team welcomed the news that Ryan Graham (who sat on the first team bench as goalkeeping cover in pre-season) and centre forward Luke Page were selected for DFA County trials this week. Midfielder Marc Moon was also having a trial with Carlisle United on Wednesday.
A couple of weeks ago I was disappointed for SRCA, but pleased for the lad, to hear the news that our very promising midfielder Callum Charlton was to sign for Airdrie United. However that was short lived as a further call was again received this week that he had a change of mind and was back with us. The boy is obviously enjoying his football here at Meadow Park.
Our only league match played to date was away at Chester-le-Street a couple of weeks ago when we were defeated 3 – 0. Whilst on paper that looks like a mauling, all in attendance will tell a different story as we ran one of the strongest teams in the North East Youth scene very close. Chester-le-Street had an excellent run a couple of seasons ago in the FA Youth Cup eventually going out at West Ham in the very late stages of the competition. Keep an eye out for them again this season as they have a very talented squad.
But back to us, as this week we prepare for our forthcoming tie at York City on Tuesday 9th September at the Kit Kat Stadium with a 7.30 PM KO. A very tough game obviously, but what a life experience for some of our young lads. I cant wait as well!
Alas the game coincides with the first team’s home match tonight against Esh Winning so the SRCA numbers travelling to York might be limited. But who knows a possible double celebration and if it does happen the Defty’s Diner Meadow Park will have to stay open for our return.