11am 30 April 2022
Under 18 Premier League
Middlesbrough U18 2 Sunderland U18 0 (att 85)
I was last at Middlesbrough's Rockcliffe Park training ground in August 1999. At some point in the years since the club has developed new pitches to stage youth team games.
The main pitch, used for this under 18s fixture, is enclosed by a sturdy plastic post and rail barrier, has dugouts and a gantry for filming matches. Immediately adjacent is a roped off pitch used for an under 16s game.
It's nice to visit a training ground at this level with a relaxed attitude to spectators. That said, although stewards were friendly it was a bit frustrating that everyone was corralled onto the touchline between the two pitches.
There was little at stake beyond local pride in this fixture. Middlesbrough's pride remained intact thanks to two goals in quick succession in the first half. Sunderland threatened occasionally, but the home side's advantage was never truly at risk.
Comments
Post a Comment