CONSETT recorded their fifth win in sixth pre-season games, but were made to work hard for the victory by their 2nd Division hosts at picturesque Waterhouses ground.

The starting XI must be one of the youngest the club has ever fielded, with skipper Carl Piecha the old man of the team at not-quite-25, and seven of the team still in their teens. Peter Bulmer made his first appearance since signing from Northallerton.

The young team quickly gelled, and although the interval was reached with the score 0-0, Jack Stanger had two good chances, as did Lewis Teasdale, who forced a good save from the 'keeper with his first and hit the bar with his second.

Half-time saw manager Kenny Lindoe make eight changes, and the introduction of some more experienced players produced the only goal of the game on 59 minutes. The move was started by the youngest player on the pitch, Ryan King, who fed Gavin Ross down the right. He reached the byline and crossed for Calvin Smith to thump home a header from six yards out.

GARY WELFORD