Recap

The Young Reds remain consistently inconsistent.  Last week, they fell to a disappointing defeat but, on this occasion emerged deserved winners against the Premier Division leaders.

Having recently lost three points after Carlisle City’s record was expunged, it was important to get a victory under the belt and they showed the commitment and desire that was lacking in their previous outing.

A good start was rewarded with the opening goal after fifteen minutes.  Tyler Harrell reacted well to a knock down in the area, swivelled and finished in one swift movement.

Reds were unfortunate not to go two ahead when Harry Watson faced a one-to-one scenario with the Unisun ‘keeper.  His progressed was unfairly checked, Reds’ penalty appeals were turned down and Watson was left with a dislocated finger!

They did extend their lead when Cain Pears’ shot from the edge of the area and a handling error from the ‘keeper saw the ball finish up in the net.

Athletic got back into the game on the half hour mark when James Murdoch scored direct from a free kick with his first goal for the Yellows going in off the post.

But Reds restored their two-goal advantage shortly before half time thanks to the goal of the match.  Harrell had been fouled on the edge of the area and, from the subsequent free-kick, Evan Stephenson (inset) thundered home an unstoppable third.

Reds squandered a couple of chances after the break and, although they controlled the game, there were no further goals.

The Development Squad now face two games against Dearham United.  The first, at Borough Park on Tuesday, is in the Second Round of the Cumberland Cup then, on Saturday at Pottery Park, they meet again in the Conway Cup.   

Team: Aaron Lister, Hayden Percival, Owen Birkett, Evan Stephenson, Zak Walker, Chad Grisdale, Cain Pears, Luke Davidson, Harry Watson, Tyler Harrell, Luke Knowles.  Substitutes – Brad Keenan, Spencer Bland, Sam Christian, Alfie Schofield, Jay Connor (all used).

Goals from yesterday's defeat at @WorkingtonAFC Reserves.
Match sponsor was the club's official charity partner @DiabetesUK
1st team sponsored by @Usedcars4lessU pic.twitter.com/nDQxjZS4nR

— UniSunAthleticFC (@UniSunAthletic) November 5, 2023