By Brian Bennett

Ashington FC joint head coach Andy Coyles said the 4-2 defeat away to West Auckland on Saturday was disappointing.

“What we have said to the lads – and they are in full agreement – is that we want to instil a winning mentality and that includes pre season matches,” he commented, “Consequently if results and performances aren’t up to a set standard then I expect everybody to be disappointed. Take nothing away from West Auckland – I thought they were a very well drilled and very good outfit – and I would go as far as to say that having seen them – and they have recruited one or two good additions – they will go all the way and win the first division of the Ebac Northern League next season.”

He continued: “For us it was difficult. We have still got high numbers in the group and it is difficult where you are trying to field 22/23 players bearing in mind we have got five or six away as well – but I’m not making any excuses. The positives were that the lads got minutes under their belts.”

Ashington’s next three friendlies are away against Blyth Town on Tuesday (July 9), Seaham Red Star on Saturday (July 13) and Whitley Bay (July 16).