MATCH PREVIEW: Newcastle Independent v Rothbury

Big Paul Dunn hit a half-hour hat-trick as the Reds went into the second round of the George Dobbins League Cup following a 5-1 win over Whickham u23s.

The powerful striker proved a real handful for the young visitors and Rothbury’s reward is a trip to Whitley Bay Reserves as they look to get their hands on some silverware this season.

“It was a decent performance and nice to score a few goals, especially for our number 9 grabbing his hat-trick,” said the experienced Tony Brown, who pulled the strings in midfield with a man of the match performance.

“I think most pleasing thing was being so dominant from the start which meant the whole squad managed to get good minutes and a few – not mentioning names – older members were able rest legs for some important fixtures coming up,” he continued.

Dunn was on target in the 4th, 11th and 29th minutes with Jake Stevenson also netting in the 12th minute of an absolutely devastating start. Tony Woods pulled one back for Whickham in the 19th minute but the scoring was completed by Harry Felton with eleven minutes to go.

“We’ve been poor in the other cups so far this season so this is a competition we want to do well in and, ultimately, win,” said Brown.

This weekend Rothbury pay a visit to a third-placed Newcastle Independent, who have only been beaten once in the League so far this season, and player/boss Tom Macpherson is relishing the challenge.

“We’re hoping to take our first win of 2022 into this weekend with confidence, although we know it’s going to be a tough ask,” he said.

“Newcastle Independent are fighting for the league title and are one of the best sides we’ve faced this season so it’s a good challenge for our lads. We have a couple lads away for the weekend but welcome Mins back in and Gar’s winter break is due to finish too,” he laughed.

The game at Coach Lane kicks off at 2.30pm.

Words: Jon Tait