Newcastle United Under-23s suffered a 3-2 defeat to Blyth Spartans in their own backyard on a tough night for Elliott Dickman's side.
In front of watching first-team boss Eddie Howe, the young Magpies suffered a nightmare start to the game and were 3-0 down after just 32 minutes. They did fight back in the second half but by that time had too much to do.
United's youngsters, drubbed by Blyth in pre-season, were looking to sign off for the season in style. Vanarama League outfit Spartans have just staved off the threat of the drop in the sixth tier and were also looking for a big night at St James' Park beneath the lights.
