Youngsters Win Again - But Bow Out

By Dan King - Newcastle United Club Reporter

Newcastle United bowed out of the Torneo di Viareggio despite a 3-2 win over Empoli on Saturday.

The Magpies, who had beaten Congo under-17s two days earlier after losing their opening group game 2-1 to AC Milan, took the lead on three occasions to finish second in Group Nine.

But only the two best runners-up from each half of the competition go through to the knockout stages, and United missed out on goal difference.

Willie Donachie, Peter Beardsley and Dave Watson's team took the lead after just two minutes in San Giuliano Terme, with Brandon Miele on target.

He controlled a Lee Desmond throw before finding Adam Campbell, whose one-two with Alex Gilliead created the chance for Miele to strike home.

Empoli levelled from a free-kick in the 24th minute but United roared ahead again on the half-hour mark. Lubo Satka's long ball was missed by a defender, allowing Campbell to race in on goal.

Twice he was denied by the goalkeeper but when the ball broke to Jonathyn Quinn, the first-year scholar netted with an excellent volleyed finish for his second goal in three games.

Newcastle failed to completely deal with a corner in the 65th minute to allow Empoli to equalise for a second time despite the best efforts of Jak Alnwick, but the Magpies went straight up the pitch from the kick-off.

Jamie Sterry won a free-kick which Miele floated in and the ball hit Macauley Booth before looping into the net.

It wasn't quite enough to keep Newcastle in the competition but they exited with their heads held high.

Newcastle United: Jak Alnwick, Alex Nicholson (sub Greg Olley), Lee Desmond, Steven Logan, Remie Streete (sub Alex Kitchen, sub Macauley Booth), Lubo Satka, Brandon Miele, Jonathyn Quinn, Rolando Aarons, Adam Campbell, Alex Gilliead (sub Jamie Sterry)

Subs not used: Tom Heardman, Jonathan Mitchell, Macaulay Gillesphey, James Morgan, Ryan McKinnon