Darren Rivis’s team are warming up for their debut season in the Wearside League, and the manager is delighted with the way his side are shaping up so far.

“We raced into a 2-0 lead against Ripon, who play in the West Yorkshire League premier division, the same level as the Wearside League, thanks to a brace of goals from striker Johnny Brown.

“It is great to have Johnny back for us this season, as we were without him for long spells last season when he went travelling to Australia and then was injured for a couple of months.”

Rivis added: “Ripon hit a late consolation, but I was very happy with how we played.”

Monday’s game saw the Moorsiders head north to Wolviston, near Billingham.

Rivis said: “Lee Alexander put us ahead, following up after their keeper failed to hold a long-range effort.

“They equalised before half-time, but in the second half we claimed the win with a cracking goal. Alex Strickland took on two players and passed the ball to his twin brother Eddie, who in turn set up Alexander to fire in in his second of the game.

“We have looked good in both friendly victories, despite the fact that I haven’t had a full squad to choose from.”