Stockton Town continued their Pre-Season preparations with a home defeat to Dunston.
First half goals from Ben Ramsey and Dan Turner gave Dunston a comfortable half-time advantage.
Frank Nouble scored his first of Pre-Season to reduce the scoreline. But Dunston restored their two-goal lead through JJ O’Donnell to complete the goalscoring.
The Anchors had beaten Seaton Carew 6-1 in the week, but were expecting a much tougher test against NPL East outfit Dunston. The Fed had began their Pre-Season campaign with 1-1 draw with Bishop Auckland and 3-0 win at Seaham Red Star.
Michael Dunwell gave more minutes to his new signings as Aaron Brown, Paul Rooney and Frank Nouble all started the game.
There was also appearances for U18s Chris Henderson, Jayden Pinnegar, Callum Young, Harvey Carberry and Max Naylor in the second half.
Following an uneventful first 20 minutes, Dunston opened the scoring when new signing Ramsey took the ball on the right of the box and rifled it into the top corner.
Stockton chances were limited throughout the first half. A cross from Owen Gallacher caused problems for the Dunston defence but no Anchor could pounce.
Dunston increased their lead when Nic Bollado held the ball up and played in Turner who found a composed finish. There were major complaints from the home fans with more than a suspicsion of offside.
Stockton had the chance to reduce the arrears when Paul Rooney was down the field but he dragged his half volley over the bar.
Half-Time: Stockton Town 0-2 Dunston
Stockton reduced the deficit when Stephen Thompson’s attempted volley fell into the path of Nouble who drilled it home.
The Anchors levelled when Josh Scott connected with Jake Petitjean’s excellent freekick delivery but the goalkeeper produced an outstanding save. From the resulting corner, Adam Nicholson arrived but blazed his effort over.
Dunston regained their two-goal advantage when a low cross from the right was swept in by JJ O’Donnell.
Stockton looked to try to keep the contest competitive. Rooney had a strike from range which dipped just over the crossbar.
Dunston could have added a fourth to their tally but Chris McDonald’s freekick from just outside the box crashed against the woodwork.
Full-Time: Stockton Town 1-3 Dunston UTS
