Match Preview: Sunderland RCA v North Shields (03/08/19)

The Robins begin their long-awaited Northern League Division One campaign tomorrow afternoon as they make the short trip south to face Sunderland RCA.

After a hard fought pre-season campaign which ended with a 1-0 victory over Division Two side, and future Northern League Cup opponents, Billingham Synthonia, courtesy of a late penalty kick, the Robins will be looking to improve upon their ninth placed finish last season.

After a disappointing start to last seasons campaign, an impressive run of form saw the Robins climb as high as fourth and threaten the title contenders above them. However, a poor end to the season saw North Shields drop down to mid table.

There have been plenty of changes to this North Shields team over the summer, with Ben Christensen, Rhys Williams, Marc Jacques, Ben Gaffney, Wayne Buchanan, Nick Cassidy, Paul Van Zandvliet, Scott McCarthy, Kyle Patton and Connor Campbell all making to move to NE29.

Our opponents tomorrow enjoyed a strong pre-season campaign, losing only once to Sunderland AFC U18’s 2-1. Of their other fixtures, they beat Horden CW, Billingham Synthonia, Brandon and Wolviston whilst picking up a draw against Heaton Stannington.

The opening month of the 2019/20 campaign will be a busy one for the Robins as they face eight matches in all competitions; five league matches and three cup games (one FA Cup, one FA Vase and One FA Youth Cup)

After the bad start to last seasons campaign, a good beginning for Marc and his team will be crucial as the Robins chase one of the three promotion places available.