Balkan success for the Newcastle young’uns.
Posted on May 24th, 2010 | 140 Comments |
However, I have managed to latch onto some action from the under-18 team who have been away in Bosnia trying to defend their “Football Friends” title that they won last year. The tournament is held in Foca and is aimed towards building friendship and unity in what was an area ripped apart by the ravages of war. It was once a breeding ground to a golden generation of stars who cut their teeth in the tournament before breaking onto the world stage. Davor Suker, Predrag Mijatovic and Zvonomir Boban all plied their trade in the tournament before going to greater things at both national and international levels.
Our kids kicked off their defence against FK Sarajevo on Friday, running out comfortable 6-0 winners with Phil Airey bagging a brace and being joined on the scorers list by Conor Newton, Ryan McGorrigan, Liam Henderson and Dan Taylor.
That meant progression to the semi-final on Saturday where our lads again came on top. It was a lot closer this time round though, as five goals ended up being split 3-2 in our favour against Red Star Belgrade, Dan Taylor with a double and Paul Dummett doing the damage.
This the setup a final appearance on Sunday against NK Zagreb, and a chance to defend the title. Phil Airey bagged another two goals whilst Dan Taylor got the other in another 3-2 win, and to cap of a successful end of season trip to The Balkans with a trophy.
Obviously there was no place for Haris Vuckic in the squad that went over to Bosnia. Clearly he will be involved in the first team next season so he needs to rest up and keep himself fit enough to hit the ground running in pre-season and hopefully force his way into first team reckoning.
Phil Airey has looked quite impressive all season, and has bagged himself a rake of goals at this level, not bad for a converted right-back. The lad has pace, can finish and if he can keep improving could be moving up the ranks at Newastle United in the near future. Obviously not to the first team just yet, but perhaps the reserve team with occasional cup appearances in the first team could be on the cards?
At least our kids are getting some European games then eh? Or could the senior team be in line to face European opposition once again?
There is a rumour going around that PSV Eindhoven could be due to play Newcastle in a pre-season friendly at St James’ Park. A date of July 31st has been mentioned, precisely one year on from the passing of Sir Bobby Robson. Could two of Bob’s former teams be coming together to pay tribute to the great man?
If they do, the rumour also hints that any money made will go to The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation. On the anniversary of his death, teamed with it being at home, and on a Saturday will surely mean that a pretty large crowd can be expected as fans from both clubs come together to pay their respects.
i hope these youn’uns get a chance to shine next season..