Date: Sunday 1st September 2024, 11::00
MOM: H Bell
Goals: L Medley
In Stokesley’s second pre-season fixture of the weekend, a combined squad of first and second teams travelled to face a strong Newcastle side. Given that Newcastle M1 claimed the league title from Stokesley M1 last season, and with both second teams now promoted to the same division, it was always going to be a tightly contested match.
Despite the competitive undertone, the long-standing camaraderie between the two clubs set the stage for a true pre-season friendly, with both teams giving it their all. Stokesley started brightly, breaking the deadlock with a beautifully orchestrated move that was expertly finished by Lewis Medley. For much of the match, Stokesley appeared composed, solid in defence, and in control of the game.
However, as the game wore on, Newcastle began to mount pressure. In the final stages, that pressure paid off as they managed to draw level. With just minutes remaining, a moment of defensive confusion proved costly for Stokesley. A long-range aerial ball fell between two defenders, allowing a Newcastle forward to pounce. With a one-on-one opportunity against Hibbert, the attacker made no mistake, securing a last-minute winner for the home side.
Despite the late heartbreak, it was a valuable run-out for Stokesley. A big thank you goes to Newcastle for their continued hospitality—it's always a pleasure to visit and face such worthy opposition.
Next game: Stockton M2 - AWAY (Wednesday 4th September 2024, 19:00 push back)
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