Report by Julian Tyley
Understandably after a comprehensive 5-0 victory there were big smiles on the faces of the Bay players, fans and management following Saturday’s game at Seaham.
Assistant manager Barry Rizza summed up the feelings in the Bay camp. “It was a very good performance and a clean sheet. We’ve done the basics right and got a few different lads on the scoresheet so it was good for the confidence.”
A twice taken penalty by Callum Larmouth put Whitley ahead before Jake Forster doubled the advantage. A third goal just before the break by Alfa Djalo put Whitley firmly in control. “Alfa harassed the centre half and it fell kindly to him and he put it in the back of the net. He’s been away for a week or so with family issues so it’s good to have lads back and competition for places.”
“At half time the team talk was go out and carry on doing what you’re doing. Do it to the end, I don’t want to see the standard drop off, and fair play to the lads they kept it up. I wanted them to keep up the tempo and not take the foot off the gas.”
Two tremendous goals in the second half from Kyle Cockburn and Callum Larmouth wrapped up the win.
“It was one of them days when everything we hit went in, they were good finishes by Kyle and Callum so it was good to see.”
Barry was particularly pleased with Larmouth’s performance. “Yes, it was not just that great finish by Callum, it was a great all round performance, he worked his socks off. We played him a bit deeper today, it suits him better, I feel. I think he’s going to end up being a proper midfielder. With his range of passing and work rate he’s very good in there and I like getting Meeshi higher up and driving the ball at people.”
The other player returning to the squad was Lucas Lowery, back after suspension.
“Lucas is very clever when he’s on it. He’s just a clever footballer. He always creates his own chances by his movement.
“Confidence wise it was an all-round good performance and to keep a clean sheet as well it was always important.
“It was good to see, good competition for places up front and hopefully we can carry it on again on Tuesday against Whickham.”
