Mens 3rds vs Sunderland 2

The first half began with Morpeth applying the pressure, winning a series of short corners. In one early memorable moment, Stokeld injected the ball straight to a Sunderland forward standing at the halfway line, a feat which earned him the D.O.D. award.

Most of Morpeth's threats came from these short corners however, and eventually, the pressure paid off. Stokeld injected to Renwick, positioned just left of centre in the D. Renwick unleashed a fierce drive that ricocheted into the goal off a Sunderland stick to make it 1-0. A second superb assist from Renwick in as many weeks. The pressure continued with Bott providing the height and perfect foil for Roberts to run off and threaten the Sunderland goal.

However, despite the early setback, Sunderland remained dangerous on the counter, but Morpeth's defence of Powell, Stokeld, Morton, and McCudden held firm, supported by Stewart's sweeping in goal. Morpeth came close to a second goal when Renwick fired a drive across the D from the left, with Gallivan deftly deflecting it onto the angle of the upright. As the half continued, Sunderland’s defence managed to keep Morpeth at bay with some last-ditch tackles and saves.

The second goal – and the game’s "Champagne Moment" – came as Yuri received the ball from Renwick and embarked on a mazy run, weaving past three defenders before slotting the ball under the keeper on the reverse. A truly beautiful effort that left his team mates in awe.

Throughout the game, and particularly in the second half, Yuri, Gallivan, and Lauder controlled the midfield, providing the foundation for Morpeth to capitalise on their dominance. The tireless work of Green and O'Halloran on the wings offered both attacking threat and defensive security. Lauder was the engine room in the middle, with his direct running and sharp awareness earning him the Man of the Match award.

Sunderland continued to carry a threat on the break in the second half, managing a fierce shot across the goal and another reverse effort that were both kept out by Stewart. His "reflexes" were on full display with a super slow-motion save that kept the clean sheet intact. Renwick continued to menace by dribbling up the right wing – only to this time end up being tackled by the pitch – staring in disbelief at the culprit for many seconds afterwards. Jack’s running on the overlap found him in perfect position on the post – and all of Sunderland heard him scream for the ball – all except one unnamed Morpeth midfielder who proceeded to lose the ball – much to Jack’s audible frustration. 

In the final minutes, Gallivan was shown a green card. The umpire couldn't lie about not liking big butts, as Andy’s ample derrière was deemed guilty of a body check that floored a Sunderland defender.

And with that, the season is back on track after a dominant display from the men in green and gold – roll on next week!