West Auckland AFC recently experienced a challenging and lesson-learning weekend, reports Phil Dodds. On 29 August, they faced Ashington in the FA Trophy First Round Qualifying. This was the first time West had competed in this competition.

West opened the scoring on eight minutes through James Hughes and held on to take their into the half-time interval

However, it was Ashington who came out with intent in the second half and changed the game, scoring three unanswered goals to progress.

Two days later, West travelled to Dunston in the league where a clinical performance saw the hosts score two goals in each half to record a 4-0 win.

Manager Gareth Young gave his thoughts on the defeat: “The result wasn’t the one we wanted, but we knew coming into the game that a trip to Dunston was always going to be a tough test.

“They’re one of the favourites to win the league and, in my opinion, if they don’t finish in the top two or three come the end of the season, it will be a disappointing campaign for them.

“Of course, we’re disappointed with the result, but it’s important that we keep things in perspective. I’ve got complete faith in the group we’ve got in that dressing room.

“They’re a tight-knit bunch, they work hard for each other, and they’re determined to put things right.

“We’ve shown positive signs in the opening part of the season and there’s plenty for us to build on.

“The players are fully committed, and I’ve got every confidence that we’ll continue to improve, grow stronger as a team, and turn performances into the results we’re looking for.

“We’ll stick together, keep working hard, and make sure we’re ready to go again this week.”

West currently sit in 19th place in the league on goal difference, sharing 5 points with three three other sides above them.

Next up for West is a midweek trip to Bridlington on Tuesday evening (15 Sep) before hosting Heaton Stannington the following Saturday.