Toon Kids 'Set Up To Be Shot Down'!

Last updated : 23 July 2008 By Footy Mad - Editor

The 1-1 draw with the Conference North outfit was far from convincing for United's youngsters, but they were 'set up to be shot down', and in a no-win situation the teenagers at least avoided defeat.

Sadler: "It was a good Gateshead side and they were well organised.

"So credit to Ian Bogie and Jeff Wrightson for that.

"In terms of our work ethic and fighting spirit, the lads put in a real shift again.

"However, I don't think there is any doubt we need to be better with the ball - particularly when they started to tire in the second half.

"We forced our passes and gave it away within one or two passes - we would expect the lads to do better.

"I would like to see a bit more adventure and creativity around opposing penalty areas too.

"But what we did get was a real honest performance from the lads at Gateshead.

"It was vital to get some confidence and we gave ourselves a platform to build on.

"We had been back only two weeks at Benfield and we were quite cold in terms of organisation - and that's not making excuses.

"However, the two lads who played centre-half at Benfield - Ben Tozer and Callum Morris - came on against Hartlepool on Saturday, and they did very well."