Ian Bogie's verdict on Sunderland game

27/07/2010, by Paul Reece

Gateshead manager Ian Bogie revealed patience on the ball and quality finishing was the difference between Gateshead and Sunderland XI following the club’s 3-1 defeat at the Academy of Light.

Bogie’s men fell to first half goals from Jordan Cook and David Healy before Jonny Allan scored from the penalty spot for Gateshead.

Bogie said: “It was a real good work out against a good passing side. The difference between the two teams on the day was number one - the finishing, they scored three goals and the patience with possession.

“They (Sunderland) didn’t force the play and kept the ball well and kept it until it opened up.

“We had good possession at times but tried the killer ball far to often when we should have kept the ball a bit more and been more patient.”

Bogie was also critical of the defending which allowed Cook to open the scoring, with Gateshead caught on the break from their corner.

Bogie said: “I told the lads its about concentration, getting back into shape quickly and early, it happened too many times last season and it is something we need to put right and quickly.

“I am not saying the teams in the Conference National will punish us in the same way Sunderland did today but we have to be on our guard.”

Bogie was quick however to praise James Marwood who looked lively throughout the game as he slowly settles into life at the International Stadium.

“Marwood showed great flashes in the game and looked a real lively spark and threat for us and was another plus for us again.

“I have been really pleased with what he has shown us in pre season so we have something to work with.”

Despite the defeat Bogie declared himself pleased with the work out for the players with just two weeks until the start of the new season.

Bogie said: “It was a good work out but you can see they are a premiership outfit and had some good players on show, but we competed well and got a late goal in the first half.

“We had good possession and a good chance in the second half with Brian Wake and the lads got good game play and good game time under their belts.”

Sunderland’s French forward Oumare Tounkara sealed the victory with a second half strike past trialist keeper Mark Cook.

Further trialists including Republic of Ireland defender Callum Morris who again impressed Bogie with Paul Terry also featuring with injured Paul Heckingbottom, John Shaw and Craig Nelthorpe all missing.

And when asked about the trialists on show today Bogie again spoke positively about young defender Morris who has impressed since joining the squad.

The Gateshead boss also confirmed will also take a further look at Paul Terry along with the two goalkeepers who featured, Mark Cook and Jack Binks.

“Callum Morris did well in defence, looked strong at the back and played the full game.

“Paul Terry probably needs a bit more football under his belt and looked a bit ring rusty to say the least and The two goalkeepers did ok.

“So we will have a further look at them over the next few days and make a decision.”

Looking forward to Fridays game against a Newcastle XI, Bogie revealed the club are still hoping to bring further additions to the side.

“Friday we will maybe look to bring one or two other trialists in and we still need about 3-4 players in the next two weeks.”

“We are getting there slowly and looking forward to Friday and in two weeks we would be expect to be ready.

“Fitness levels are good and we matched Sunderland for long levels today and are pleased with the work out.”