Tom just can’t stop scoring

TOM EAVES scored four goals as Athletic blitzed Accrington Stanley 7-1 at Chapel Road in their opening match of the campaign in the North-West Youth Alliance.

It took the 6ft 5in striker’s total to 10 goals in six matches this season. He has found the net in every game in which he has played.

Yet Eaves, who missed the final seven months of last season after rupturing ankle ligaments, has still to regain full sharpness after his lengthy lay-off.

There were a couple of excellent finishes from Eaves, whose two other goals were those of a poacher.

Phillip McGrath found the net twice, while Connor Hughes completed the scoring.

Young forward Kirk Miller, a first-year trainee, also caught the eye.

He was captured last season from top Irish club Linfield, having played in their first team at the age of 16.

Athletic’s victory was achieved with a struggling squad.

Many of the players had been struck down by a virus earlier in the week.

And though most of the youngsters recovered, they were still feeling the effects and, as a result, coach Tony Philliskirk made three substitutions early in the second half.

Athletic’s youngsters are in league action on Saturday when they visit Carlisle United.