Young Development Side Overcome Histon 3-1

There was speculation as to what sort of team would take to the field at the Glass World Stadium following the announcement of the friendly last week. Histon boss Dennis Greene seemed to suggest it would be a strong side, while those of us up here took those comments with a pinch of salt knowing our preseason schedule already.

It turns out we were right as under the watchful eye of Kevin Ball, a Sunderland XI dispatched Histon comfortably on Monday night 3-1.

Within ten minutes the visitors had the lead, and never looked like losing it. Craig Lynch took advantage of a defensive mistake and teed up Jordan Laidler to calmly slot home for the opener.

Less than ten minutes later it was 2-0 as Sunderland threatened a rout of their hosts. Adam Mitchell teeing up Laidler on the edge of the area for the first year professional to place one in the top corner of the net.

Sunderland remained in control for the remainder of the half, that is up until Deakan Napier headed one in from all of three yards to give Histon a glimmer of hope on the stroke of halftime.

The second half was little more than an exercise in Histon's defence against Sunderland's attack, but only one more goal was added, and it came from the boot of Billy Knott.

Nice interchanging play between Mitchell and Knott saw Mitchell play a backheel into the path of Knott, who lashed beyond a helpless Histon keeper to put the game beyond any doubt.

Martin O'Neill watched the youngsters in action, and will no doubt have been impressed by Louis Laing, Roarie Deacon and Knott who all put in excellent performances.