Sunderland RCA and Sunderland West End seasons so far
Sunderland RCA and Sunderland West End will both be hoping they can enjoy an improved second half to the season in the Northern League Division Two.
Sunderland West End currently sit 11th in the table after their win last Friday against Boldon CA.
It has been a rollercoaster season so far for West End who have enjoyed some incredible highs such as defeating Washington 8-0. However, have also experienced gut-wrenching lows such as their 1-6 defeat at home to Newcastle University.
West End have only failed to score in three games so far this season showing their amazing goal-scoring attributes. They have scored 37 goals in 19 games. This is contrasted by their defensive form where they’ve only been able to keep a clean sheet in two games and have conceded 48 goals in 19 games.
Fortunes have been looking up for West End recently as they have seen themselves win four games on the bounce which has allowed them to still have an outside chance of playoffs as they are currently 13 points out.
After relegation from Division One last season Sunderland RCA faced a massive challenge as most of the squad departed with the aim for RCA to restore some stability into the club.
They currently sit 2nd bottom in Division Two, but the underlying context suggests this is a bit of a false position for RCA and they do seem to be heading in the right direction.
RCA may feel aggrieved to not have a handful more points than they currently do, but they have competed in all but one of the games played so far this season. Their last three outings have seen them play three of the top sides in the league and a point against 2nd-place Horden CW last Tuesday shows that they can and will cause sides problems.
Sunderland RCA manager Mark Forrest spoke on the issues RCA had at the start of the season: ”I felt the club needed a complete reset. We took over and the first thing we needed to do was put a squad together, this is easier said then done when you have a very tight budget to work with.”
RCA’s manager added to this by clarifying his goals for the season: ”To solidify, improve the squad as the season went on and build a culture where first team players, reserve players and the youth teams can be proud of their football club.”
With RCA currently sat two points off safety with a game in hand over Grangetown Boys Club who are a position above them there is still a chance they can stay up this season and enjoy a memorable season.
The Real Reds have scored 21 goals and conceded 43 in 19 games this season and will therefore be hoping to improve their goal-scoring form as well as fix issues at the back going forward. RCA’s fixtures do look more favourable over the next few weeks and they will be hoping that, and the continued commitment to recruit and improve the squad will see their fortunes turn around very soon.
Up next for West End is a home clash against Redcar Town tonight, whilst RCA are gearing up for an away trip to face Newcastle University tomorrow.