Youngsters denied by inspired goalkeeper

ATHLETIC had a frustrating morning as they lost 3-2 at Blackpool in the North-West Conference of the Puma Football League Youth Alliance.

Had it not been for an inspired display by Seasiders ’keeper Mark Halstead, whose admirers include Liverpool and Manchester City, Athletic’s youngsters would have triumphed.

Youth-team coach Tony Philliskirk rang the changes after the midweek cup-tie at Newcastle United, leaving out many of the regulars in order to give the fringe players a match.

The game was played in terrible conditions, in total contrast to the St James’ Park surface Athletic had encountered four days’ earlier.

Athletic, who dominated for long periods, were unlucky to find themselves 2-0 down at half-time following an own goal and a defensive error.

But after the break they staged a spirited recovery to level the scores.

Irish lad Philip McGrath halved the deficit, knocking in the rebound after Halstead had brilliantly saved his initial header.

And substitute Tom Eaves made an immediate impact with a headed equaliser.

Athletic ran out of steam, however, and Blackpool scored their winner 15 minutes from time.




ATHLETIC face a tough match at unbeaten table-toppers Burnley on Saturday.