Jarrow Reserves 2 Darlington Under 23s 2

Our Under 23s dropped points on Saturday, but they’re still on course for a top two finish in the Wearside League Second Division.

The lads drew 2-2 at a much-improved Jarrow Reserves, but they’re still top of the table, seven points ahead of Middlestone Moor. Matthiew Kirokiro, who has now got 19 for the season, and Ethan Cuthbertson scored the goals.

Manager Grant Cuthbertson said; “It was a hard day at the office against a very much improved Jarrow Reserves. Jarrow were very good on the counter attack and very physical which our boys just didn’t cope with. It was disappointing to come away with a draw but relieved at the same time.

“We’ve got a busy February ahead, but I’m sure that the lads will bounce back. They’ve shown plenty of times this season what they’re capable of.”

Jarrow took the lead with a simple ball over the top to leave their striker with a 1 on 1 which he converted and give them the lead at half time.

 Half time came and a few tweaks made and Darlington started the second half much brighter and some good play and Matthiew Kirokiro made it 1-1. Darlington started to impose themselves on the game but a very resilient back line of Jarrow meant that our lads just couldn’t break them down. A very sloppy free kick was given away and unfortunately Jarrow made it 2-1 with five minutes remaining. The boys dug deep and a ball from the left was whipped in and slotted away by Ethan Cuthbertson to make it 2-2.

In the end, it was a good point for Quakers, and a reminder of how physical the Wearside League can be at times.