Rotherham Res 4, Newcastle United Res 2

Oct 14 2009 by The Journal

A YOUNG Newcastle United Reserves side slipped to their second successive defeat with an experienced Rotherham United running out comfortable 4-2 winners at Don Valley Stadium.

Alan Thompson’s second-string, which included two debutants, had relinquished their unbeaten start to the season at Middlesbrough seven days ago but looked on course for a return to winning ways when Aaron Spear, one of those enjoying their reserve-team bow, fired the visitors in front on 13 minutes.

The 16-year-old midfielder switched onto his right foot before seeing a powerful return diverted into the back of the net by the feeble palms of keeper Jamie Annerson.

That goal had come somewhat against the run of play and the Millers subsequently drew level on 27 minutes, Ryan Taylor diving to apply the merest of touches to Stephen Brogan’s inviting delivery to head beyond a helpless Jak Alwnick.

Brogan and Taylor again joined forces just before half-time but this time the header evaded the target. And Brogan was again provider when the hosts edged their noses in front 10 minutes after the break, his low pull-back stabbed high into the roof of the net by Micky Cummins from just six yards out.

Rotherham were very much in the ascendency and extended their advantage not long after the hour mark when Paul Warne, arriving unannounced from deep into enemy territory, smashed home from Jason Taylor’s perfectly-weighted pass.

Brogan had been the home side’s outstanding performer and got a deserved goal to make it four 13 minutes from time, darting infield from the left before steering a right-footed curler around Alwnick from 20 yards. There was time for Wesley Ngo Baheng to notch his fifth of the season, heading into an unguarded net after Annerson had flapped at debutant Patrick Nzuzi’s lofted centre, but the goal was scant consolation.