The Stan’s 1st friendly of the 19-20 season took place in front of a relatively large crowd of over 80 on a pleasant evening. The opposition team, who play in Northern Alliance Division 1, are the senior team of Bedlington FC who are primarily made up of junior teams and 2 of their fans were keen to inform me that they have nothing to do with the Terriers. Due to Dan Regan’s unavailability due to work commitments, Stan legend Shaun Backhouse was back between the sticks. Ali Stoddart and Jordan Ray have also rejoined the club. Jon Jon Wright was also present but only as a spectator.

An early penalty saw the Stan take the lead through Kerridge who sent the keeper the wrong way after 4 minutes. He got his 2nd in 25 minutes after a cheeky back heel from Hoggins who wrong footed the keeper and 2 defenders. In 36 minutes Bedlington got a goal back with a tap in although just before the half time whistle Campbell won the ball, turned and beat a player then made a superb drive from the edge of the box for 3-1.

The 1st 5 subs came on for the start of the 2nd half with Anderson and the 2 trialists joining them in the 56th minute. It wasn’t long until Bailey made it 4-1 with a wonder goal which swerved into the net in 50 minutes. In 71 minutes Anderson, who was initially blocked, kept going and forced the ball past the keeper on the ground to make it 5-1. After another 11 minutes he supplied Bailey for his 2nd. A good performance by the Stan and certainly one that will bring confidence to both the management team and the Stan Army.

Heaton Stannington: Backhouse, Simpson, Hall, Ray, Middleton, Holland, Mason, Charmey, Kerridge, Campbell, Hoggins.

Subs All Used: Stoddart, Sayer, Bailey, Allan, Walker, Anderson & 2 Trialists.

Goals: Kerridge 4 (Pen), 25, Campbell 44, Bailey 50, 82, Anderson 71.

Referee: Peter Osgood.

Attendance: 80.

Kevin Mochrie