Sunderland West End 1-3 Birtley Town – Match Report
Birtley Town manager Paul Bryson described their 3-1 win over Sunderland West End as “Another really good performance and result” as victory put them in second place.
A delighted Bryson gave credit to every player during a highly congested fixture list: “Fair play to the lads for dealing with it as it has been relentless. The lads have dealt with it professionally.”
A first half brace by Aiden Rutledge put Birtley two to the good at half time before Alex Francis scored a third on the 79th minute, West End pulled one back in the 91st minute through Samuel Peat.
But Bryson was quick to credit the opposition who’s league position undermines their quality suggests: “I thought Sunderland West End played well.”
Birtley have now won three games in their last four, with the other result being an entertaining 3-3 draw away to top of the table Boro Rangers.
Bryson commented “It’s been really pleasing to take 10 points from a possible 12 with our last four games all away from home.
“We have freshened things up at the right time with Tom McIntrye, Frank Tutt, and the other new additions.
“Aidan again got another couple of goals, Alex also scored from a set play. Our delivery from set pieces has been good.
“It’s a little bit disappointing not to see the game out with a clean sheet but let’s go into Saturday with confidence.
“We look forward to welcoming Jarrow and returning to playing at home.”