As with the Stiffs the Casuals started the season full of optimism for the challenge ahead, only for several disappointing results, particularly away from home, to find us finishing the season propping the rest of the league up. Indeed all of the Casuals’ points this season were gained on the “Pitch across the Ditch”, totting up three wins and two draws.
To be fair we have suffered with several call-ups throughout the season, which combined with injuries and an already threadbare squad, has meant leaving most team selections to be carried out just prior to kick-off on a Saturday afternoon!
Even with the bare eleven the Casuals have been involved in several battling performances that probably deserved some reward, often against the more fancied teams in the league. Of the season losses, no less than five have been by the odd goal (and often a dubious one at that!).
Even with the results (& luck!) going against us, one thing I can say is that team morale has been excellent, with the pre- and post-match “craic” probably as good as any Easington side has seen over the years.
At times it’s been a Veterans side on a Saturday, with Messrs Biglin, Eldon, Turley, Feeney, Clarke, Carrick, Newsam, Keyworth, Ineson, Biff McNaught & yours truly all old enough to qualify at over 35 (some well over it has to be said!!).
At least we’ve had the support of comparative youngsters like Campbell, Waddingham, Ward & Dave Clubley and the team’s true “young-ones” Rutter and Rich Clubley.
So whilst we have not had the success we all initially hoped for, praise to the lads for battling and sticking to the task throughout and remaining positive. The late season arrival of a few new faces has helped bolster the squad, which will allow us to “fight another day” next season, albeit possibly in division 5.

Iain McNaught