Billingham Synthonia Reserves 5 – 0 South Park Developm

Billingham Synthonia Reserves produced a dominant second-half display to secure a convincing 5–0 victory away at Smith’s Dock Park, controlling large periods of the game and eventually turning pressure into goals in an entertaining friendly encounter.

Starting XI & Shape

The Synners lined up in a 4-3-3, with George Wilson in goal. The back four consisted of Ryan Pearson, Logan Stevenson, Joe Campbell, and Liam Harman. Midfield was anchored by Charlie Docherty, supported by Connor Perry and Luca Hearn, while the attacking trio featured Aaron Earnshaw, Callum Maddren, and Sonny Richardson.

The system was set up to provide width and attacking balance, with full-backs encouraged to support play and the front three tasked with stretching the opposition.

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First Half

Billingham Synthonia started on the front foot, showing early intent and territorial dominance. Charlie Docherty had the first sight of goal in the fourth minute, followed shortly by a narrowly offside run from Callum Maddren.

Despite creating several promising situations—including efforts that struck the crossbar from Sonny Richardson and later Logan Stevenson—the final touch was missing. The defensive unit remained alert throughout, with Pearson, Stevenson, Campbell, and Docherty all making key interventions to deny South Park any real momentum.

The first half was disrupted by injuries, with Pearson and Docherty both forced off and replaced by Dawn Kutol and Kane Warwick respectively. Further tactical adjustments followed, but despite sustained pressure and multiple chances, the teams went into the break level at 0–0.

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Second Half

The breakthrough arrived six minutes after the restart. A well-delivered corner from Liam Harman was met by Joe Campbell, who powered home a close-range header to give the visitors a deserved lead.

Billingham Synthonia continued to press, and their superiority was rewarded again in the 71st minute when Callum Maddren delivered an excellent cross for Sonny Richardson, who headed home from close range to double the advantage.

The final ten minutes saw the Synners turn dominance into a rout. Liam Harman added a third with a close-range header following a flick-on from Kutol, before Dawn Kutol took centre stage—finishing clinically for the fourth and then completing her hat-trick in the 86th minute with a diving header to cap an outstanding cameo.

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Manager’s Summary

While the scoreline reflects clear control and quality in the second half, the performance level still fell short of the standards we are capable of achieving. That said, it was hugely positive to see the new lads make an immediate impact and contribute decisively.

Doing the basics well, adapting to conditions, and being flexible when our primary philosophy isn’t working proved the difference. This is a no-nonsense, hardworking, talented, and respectful group, and the foundations being laid are strong.

On to training Monday—keep building.