It’s rather unusual for us to play two derby games in the space of four days, but thanks to postponements, we’ve been spoiled for viewing this week. After the Easter Bunny came to bless our Robins with a 2-1 win against our future hosts last Saturday, we now head to Hillheads for an El Coastico with a place in the semi-final of the Newcastle Flooring Senior Cup on the line.
This may be the easiest preview I’ll have to do this season. With Saturday’s game in the memory bank, I can give an accurate read on both teams.
Whitley Bay, though beaten last time out, and our North Shields doing the double over them, I saw some bright sparks that showed their obvious quality, which has landed them third place in the league.
Mikel Thompson scored the Seahorses’ goal at the weekend, and although it took a deflection, there were some bright spots in the build-up to the goal. They moved the ball well, and if not for the performances of Callum Elliot and the Shields back four, they may have well had a couple more.
The last game had everything: a huge atmosphere, goals, a red card, it was pretty much what you’d expect of a pressurised derby game. The red card was an unfortunate one to take. Callum Ross, who scored the first goal for our Robins, went over the top of the ball, catching Whitley Bay number four, Callum Larmouth, in the ankle, which forced him to be subbed a few minutes later.
Brian Smith had the setup perfect on Saturday. Lashley and Hall were the handful they always are, running the channels and causing problems for the Whitley Bay fullbacks. The experienced Lee Mason, in the middle of them, provided balance, which knit the attack together very well. Lash is still on an unstoppable run of form, and after scoring a goal of the season contender at the weekend, his confidence will be sky-high, ready to go out and do the same.
The Robins did really well to stop Whitley Bay from playing the ball, and defended strongly in the second half, absorbing the pressure and holding onto their lead. Being more direct really suits the way the team plays, and with constant runners and supporting players to work the ball, it’s becoming a well-oiled machine, ready for the start of next season.
Yes, the last two games of the league season are upon us, but there’s still all to play for, as we’re in both cups. And with a game at St James’ Park in the final of this cup as the stakes, it’s sure to be a feisty end-to-end affair, so get yourselves over to Hillheads and support the lads through to the next round.
HOWAY THE ROBINS!
MATCH DETAILS
Whitley Bay FC vs North Shields FC
Newcastle Flooring Senior Cup Quarter Final
Wednesday 8th April
Kick Off – 7:30pm
Venue – Hillheads Park, Rink Way, Whitley Bay, NE25 8HR
Concessions – £8/£6/£5
