Newcastle Reserves 0 Grimsby Reserves 3

Last updated : 25 September 2003 By Site Staff
Whilst the only real experience in Town's team was sub Phil Jevons, the Geordies boasted Greek international Nikos Dabizas in defence plus Carl Cort and Michael Chopra up front.

Such is the lack of numbers for Town, only four subs were named as Paul Groves and Graham Rodger look to avoid stretching the squad further. Local trialist Robbie Greetham lined up in defence.

Town's opener came on 20 minutes. Gio Carchedi curling a 20 yard free kick into the top corner at the second attempt. The first effort hit the wall but Chopra was penalised for encroachment.

3 minutes later the lead was doubled. David Soames, returning from a short lay off took of with pace on a mazy run before Chris Carr's block tackle. The free ball fell to Darren Mansaram who slammed home from the edge of the box.

Soames soon wasted a good chance to make it three, 'Digger' sped away from the Newcastle defence but put his effort wide when one-on-one with Bartlett.

Jevons came off the bench in the second half to continue his comeback. His 67th minute scissor kick flew past Bartlett from 12 yards to make it 3-0.

Late on Andy Pettinger's goal was breached only for Andy Ferrell's effort to be ruled offside.

An excellent win for Town's youngsters against a much more experienced side.

Newcastle: Bartlett, Norton, Ramage, Dabizas, Carr, Orr, Ferrell, McClen, Cort, Offiong, Chopra. Subs: Gate, Brittian, O'Brien, Smith, Taylor.

Town: Pettinger, Greetham, Davey, Wheeler, Young, Ward, Newton, Hildred, Soames, Mansaram, Carchedi. Subs: Stares, Smythe, Huckett, Jevons.