Ryton & Crawcrook Albion came from an early goal down to beat First Division Sunderland RCA 6-3 in a thrilling pre-season friendly on Tuesday night.

The hosts took an early lead through Ashley Lavan but Albion responded quickly with an equaliser inside ten minutes thanks to Aaron Costello. Rhys McLeod then edged the visitors ahead with a smart finish. Lee Waugh extended the lead from the penalty spot before Costello added his second before half time for a commanding 4-1 lead.

The Wearsiders pulled a goal back through a trialist early in the second period but Costello then completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot before Waugh added his second goal of the night with a lovely strike. John Anderson reduced the margin of defeat for the home side in the closing stages.

Joint Manager Andrew Waugh – in sole charge today with Nathan Beckham away – will be hoping for more of the same on Saturday as RACA travel to Carlisle City in the final pre-season match and make it six out of six friendlies ahead of the new Ebac Northern League Division Two season next weekend.