Team Northumbria remain optimistic despite a narrow defeat away to Tow Law Town in the League Cup last night.
It wasn’t the result TN would have liked but the Northern League Division Two leaders remain confident they can continue their strong start to the season.
Manager Colin Stromsoy was pleased with his team’s performance and had no criticism for his players.
“I was very proud of our players,” said Stromsoy. “It was a physical and competitive match but we kept our heads and conducted ourselves with incredible professionalism.
“Tow Law don’t have a great pitch which gives them an undeniable home advantage.
“It’s a real leveller because it’s difficult to play football on and they know exactly how to play on it and it suits them.”
It was a tale of two halves for TN who struggled to adapt to the conditions, leaving them two goals down before half time.
“We went uphill in the first half and to be honest they probably could’ve had a few more goals,” added Stromsoy.
“Immediately we were on the back foot – they scored early and we really struggled to get into the game.
“We did have a couple of breakaways but nothing to really test or trouble their keeper.
“In the second half we changed it tactically and played very direct ourselves.
“Dan Taggart got us a goal back and played very well under the circumstances but we couldn’t make the most of the chances we created.
“We dominated and in truth we could’ve had a draw or even a win but it wasn’t to be and we’ve lost 2-1 in the end.”
It was a tough defeat but there were lots of positives to take away from the performance and TN remain confident going into Saturday’s fixture with Billingham Town.
“We were poor in the first half but that was understandable – in the second half we were great,” added Stromsoy.
“We changed a lot tactically and the players did everything I asked of them and adapted well.
“It just wasn’t our night - they were very direct but that’s their approach and it’s worked for them so I have no complaints.”
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