Tom talks - after the Newcastle game

Tom Wade was delighted with his team's performance in their 2-0 win over Newcastle United's U21s on Saturday in the Northumberland Senior Cup.

"We didn't let them play," he said. "We bossed the midfield and after the first ten minutes we were the better side. We were stronger, fitter and better footballers.

"Our first goal was a cracker. Michael [Richardson] took it so well. He's back to the form he had when he first joined us. He's such a positive player. It was a great flowing move which led to our second and Robbie[Dale] finished it superbly."

Wade commented on some critics and reports which appeared to diminish the Spartans' achievement.

"Some people have said we were just playing against kids. They forget the Newcastle players are first or second year professional footballers at a Premier league club. Several have been in the first team squad and you don't get there if you are a poor player. The Under 21s beat Aston Villa in midweek - so they are no pushover.

"What's more, our back four were as young as Newcastle's and I think were actually better."

Wade anticipates making several changes for the League Cup tie with Darlington 1883 on Tuesday. Some enforced and some not.

He said:"I explained to the lads some days ago that we'd be playing different players in Saturday's and this Tuesday's games. Alex Nicholson, who got a stud injury against Newcastle, will miss the match along with Aaron Wearmouth who may be missing for a couple of weeks. On top of that Wadey [Matthew Wade] got a bad knock on his knee on the first half on Saturday and is very doubtful. But we'll have Andrew Cartwright, Neal Hooks, Paul Robinson, Ash Davis and Adam McHugh all prepared to see at least some action against Darlington."