Stockton Town were edged by Morpeth Town in a seven-goal thriller.
A trialist netted a winner for Morpeth to settle what was a frantic Pre-Season match in which the teams shared all the goals within an hour.
Manager Michael Dunwell named another strong XI with Michael Fowler again leading the line.
The Anchors took the lead when Kev Hayes fired in at the near post before two quickfire goals from Jack Foallie and Ryan Donaldson put Morpeth ahead.
Tom Portas levelled again for Stockton from Fowler’s cutback but the Highwaymen had the half-time lead when Connor Thomson expertly took down and finished Liam Noble’s ball.
Shortly after half-time, Stockton were level when a Hayes corner was headed on by Adam Nicholsonand turned in by Tom Coulthard. However Morpeth got the final goal and what proved to be the winner when Vinnie Steels laid it on a plate for a trialist to convert.
The final half hour was broken up by a number of substitutions. Morpeth had a couple of chances to increase their lead but Callum Roberts kept them at bay.
Michael Dunwell’s men now have week until their next Pre-Season game when they host Guisborough Town (1pm Kick-Off)
Words: James Cartwright
Photo: James Cartwright
