Northumbria battle back against Benfield

Derek Forrest was left feeling delighted after his side battled back to claim a hard fought come from behind win on Boxing Day against Newcastle Benfield to ensure derby day delight for Team Northumbria.

It was first half with plenty of frustration for the hosts as they were unable to capitalise on their dominance, squandering a number of golden opportunities, before finding themselves a goal down right on the brink of half time.

However, the second half proved more fruitful for TN, as they managed to turn the game around in a five minute spell thanks to goals from Gunn and Dibb-Fuller ensuring a 2-1 win and a festive three points.

And after the game, Forrest admitted he was overjoyed by TN’s performance.

“We started really well and we created four or five chances within the first 20 minutes which we didn’t finish, but it was clear was that the approach play was good,” said Forrest.

“Unfortunately they scored before half time with their first real chance of the half, so to go one down right on half time and to come from behind and win is really character building.

“It was a great performance, especially to score two goals late on when you think it might not be our day.

“So I’m delighted because even when we went two up, the lads put their bodies on the line with some heroic defending late on to ensure we got the three points.”

And Forrest was also delighted with the adjustments his players made during the half time interval which acted as the catalyst for TN’s victory.

“We knew that we were unlucky to go into half time losing,” Forrest said.

“We focussed on what we’d done well, and said we’ve got to keep going, look at how many chances we’ve made, lets go make ten more.

“Defensively, it was a lapse in concentration and a player got in between the lines so we knew we also had to maintain our focus too.”

The win was TN’s second game in the space of 13 days, and with the turnaround in games being so short, Forrest was pleased with how his side were managing the festive fixture list.

“We’ve played really well today, and now we’ve got to 28 points so we’re going to keep pushing for the 40 point mark,” said Forrest.

“We’ve got a generally very fit bunch of lads and they work hard which puts them in a good position to succeed.  

“I’m really happy that they’ve managed to come back and apply themselves after the festive period.

“But ultimately, this performance today was summed up by Nick Green and Robbie Spence who have travelled two to three hours to get to the game and not just play, but play really well which just highlights their fantastic effort, attitude and application.”