‘Below par performance’ claims Rothbury boss Herron

While the hosts have both the Combination and NFA Minor Cup Finals to look forward to – subject to the newly imposed suspension of fixtures by the League -and are playing for places, Rothbury’s losing run continued and the decent form that they have been displaying deserted them.

Their defensive frailties were exposed as early as the sixth minute when Billy Pulman shot United ahead and further first half goals from Christie Kidd, in the 35th minute, and David Dormand, just two minutes before the break, left the Coquetdalers with a mountain to climb.

“Cramlington totally deserved it. They won every second ball and every 50/50 battle - we just weren’t up for it at all,” admitted Herron.

Niall Younger added a fourth in the 75th minute and although the Reds pulled one back three minutes later as James Jackson’s 35 yard drive came back off the woodwork for Greg Woodburn to rifle the rebound into the roof of the net, Pulman rounded things off with a fifth four minutes from time.

“We conceded four goals from set pieces or crosses, with poor marking and lack of decision making to deal with them. It just wasn’t good enough at all,” said Herron, who once again was forced to travel with a bare 12 in the squad.

“I think we had a 10 minute spell in each half where we played some short passing play, but it didn’t amount to anything. The only shining light from the game was young Dylan Handyside, who covered every blade of grass and did his best to rat out the opposition,” continued the boss.

Although Forest Hall and FC United of Newcastle - who sit below 12th placed Rothbury in the table - were both beaten this weekend, Herron isn’t looking over his shoulder at results elsewhere and wants to concentrate on his own side.

“I’m just looking at getting a few results on the board - I don’t feel like we’re in danger given the way we’re playing, barring this Cramlington game.

“I think we should get some points on the board before the end of the season - if it goes ahead in light of the recent outbreak.”