Ruthless Boro too strong for Latics

Boundary Park round up

ATHLETIC’S youngsters found Middlesbrough under-18s too hot to handle as they lost 5-1 on Teesside.

Coach Tony Philliskirk admitted it was a steep learning curve, saying: “Boro were ruthless and were in a different class quality-wise. They defended better than we did and at the other end took their chances well.”

Yet had Athletic taken the opportunities that came their way early in the second half they would have made a better fist of it.

Tom Eaves maintained his goal-a-game pre-season record as he gave Athletic an early lead.

However, within 15 minutes Boro has overturned the deficit and built a 3-1 advantage.

Athletic dominated the early part of the second half when Andy Crompton’s free kick struck an upright and other chances went begging.

Boro weathered the storm and sealed victory with two further goals.

Athletic’s under-17s showed great character as they drew 2-2 against Yeovil at Chapel Road.

Athletic, whose side comprised seven schoolboys and four first-year trainees, were up against it as Yeovil brought their under-18 squad.

And when Athletic fell 2-0 behind inside 10 minutes, their prospects appeared bleak.

But Athletic showed great character to draw level through goals from schoolboy central-midfield player Ryan Hopper and first-year trainee central defender James Tarkowski.

And in an entertaining match, both teams had chances to secure victory in the latter stages.


ATHLETIC steward Alan Miller is the winner of our competition for two tickets to tomorrow’s ‘An Evening With David Eyres’ at the Indish Restaurant, Broadway.

Alan, of Hebron Street, Royton, correctly answered that Burnley is the Premier League club for which Eyres has played.

Tickets priced at £30, which includes a seven-course meal, are still available from Carl Spiers on 07980 001863.

The second event planned for Wednesday, October 7 features ex-Boundary Park favourite Mark Ward who was recently released from prison on licence halfway through an eight-year prison sentence for a drug-related offence.