Northern Juniors edged a youth vs experience battle against Sunderland Seconds 3-2, as the hosts early season momentum continued to desert them.

After two early wins to start the season the Mackems were beaten in tough conditions away to Hexham, and struggled at home against a well coached, promising young side.

It was typically sweltering conditions on West Lawn, and the high paced attritional game seemed to suit the Youngsters, who showed no lack of confidence despite losing their opening two games.

They were quickly into a 1-0 lead as Thomas Porter beat Matt Agar 3-0.

But, the tie was levelled as Colin Sidney came through a five set battle with Megan Evans, winning the match 15-14 in the final set.

The home side looked to be taking control of the tie when Kevin Dryden overturned a 2-0 deficit to win the first string match 3-2.

The Juniors fought back as John Thompson produced a composed and mature performance to get past the hard hitting Ben Robinson 3-1.

The tie was now level at 2-2, with the result depending on the second string match.

Matthew Thompson rose to the challenge brilliantly, putting in a confident performance to beat Eric Alderson 3-0 and give the Juniors their first win of the season.

Sunderland stay second in the Division two table despite back to back defeats but, with many of the trailing pack having games in hand, they will need to get back to winning ways soon if they are to keep their promotion hopes alive.

Next up, they face a tough trip to Westoe on the First of November. The South Shields side have got off to a flying start, winning both of their first two games.