Sunderland U21s stars show qualities of 'senior athletes' as proud Murty hails win

Boss Graeme Murty described his Sunderland U21s side’s 5-1 victory over Tamworth as “an excellent team performance” as his men triumphed in the National League Cup. Goals from Trey Ogunsuyi, Tom Lavery, Jaydon Jones and Ben Crompton sealed all three points in Group C at the Lamb Ground.

Murty said: “Their application and endeavour was of the highest order. They have shown their qualities against senior athletes. It was excellent from start to finish. Some of the play and combinations were really pleasing on the eye and the way they handled a difficult opponent, on a difficult pitch at times in sub zero temperatures, I can’t be more proud of the way they handled everything.

“They took it in their stride and continued to look like us. We threw a change of shape on to them as well at the last minute, just to see how they would handle it and I thought they were top drawer.

“These experiences are massive for development and we have a close group who do really well at overcoming challenges. They recognise the opportunity they have and what a privilege it is and now they have to keep learning and kick on.”

It was a five-star performance as the Lads flew straight out the traps, grabbing the opener after just two minutes. Jenson Jones’ strike deflected off Ogunsuyi and rolled into the net. Just moments later, Jones was involved again, feeding the ball to Lavery to finish beyond Leon Phillips.

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The hosts pulled one back on the cusp of half time when Callum Cockerill-Mollett converted the cross from close range. The young Black Cats started the second half in the same manner when Jewison Bennette’s effort was parried into the path of Ogunsuyi to seal his brace.

Jaydon Jones made an instant impact off the bench adding the fourth with 15 to play. A smart finish inside the area confirmed his second of the season for the U21s. Crompton wrapped up the contest in the final few minutes rounding off an excellent team move with a low strike into the bottom corner. Murty’s side return to league action on Monday with a trip to Sheffield United.

Sunderland U21s: Chibueze, Lavery (Bell 65), Crompton, Johnson, Anderson, Jenson Jones, Lenz (Jaydon Jones 55), Middlemas, Bennette, Walsh, Ogunsuyi (Geragusian 85)

Subs not used: Cameron, Kindon, Chungh, Whittaker.