Our Under 23s stayed top of the Wearside League second division with a comfortable 6-1 away win at Hilda Park on Saturday.

Goals from Will Maddison, Jack Mortimer (2), Alfie Fawcett (2) and Alfie Robinson gave them the points, which make sure that they remain three points clear of Middlestone Moor, having played three games more.

Manager Grant Cuthbertson said; “It was a pleasing performance. I was really impressed with the standard of play, the movement out of possession, and the decision-making.”

The lads were coming into this game with confidence at an all time high, the boys were really gelling on the pitch and the quality of football was clear for all to see.

Like all our recent matches the boys were right at it from the off, moving the ball left to right and keeping possession impressively well. Unlike last game where they had to be patient the chances came thick and fast, Will Maddison continued his good scoring form with a smart left foot to put Darlo 1-0 up before a minute later Jack Mortimer was wiped out for a penalty that he buried for 2-0.

A defensive mishap at the back for Darlo got one back for Hilda Park but we still had our foot on the gas with the boys constantly pushing up the pitch. They won a free kick on the edge of the box in a dangerous position, Mortimer whipped in and Alfie Fawcett volleyed home for 3-1 at half time.

Fawcett was quickly at the double after halftime as he scored a worldie from outside the box. After continued good possession and dominance a free kick on the edge of the box was won Mortimer absolutely buried it for his brace.

Changes throughout the second half saw Kirokiro getting some good minutes for match sharpness, Jake Patterson dictating a lot in midfield. Sam Booth who earned his first start did well and was replaced by Ethan Mcloughlin. The strength in bench is really apparent, Alfie Robinson being one of them that came on and put a shift in, earning himself a goal to put the game fully to bed for 6-1. The good form continues and another three points on the board.

1. Liam Mason, 2. Ethan Cuthbertson, 3. Sam Booth, 4. Thomas Southwood, 5. Dylan Helliwell 6. Oliver Walters, 7. Jack Mortimer, 8. Will Maddison, 9. Stevie Dawson, 10. Owen Smith 11. Alfie Fawcett

Subs:
12. Alfie Robinson, 14. Harry Butters, 15. Matthiew Kirokiro, 16. Ethan Mcloughlin, 17. Jake Patterson