Rutherford AFC delivered a dominant performance at home, running out 8-1 winners against Sunderland West End Blacks in a one-sided on the RUTHERFORD AFC First team pitch. Despite a brief resurgence from the visitors early in the second half, Rutherford showed their strength and clinical finishing to comfortably secure the three points and a great end to 2024.

Rutherford took control early in the match, and their pressure paid off in the 28th minute when Michael opened the scoring. The goal came after some excellent link-up play between Mason, who provided the assist, and Michael, who calmly slotted past the keeper to give Rutherford a deserved lead.

Just five minutes later, it was Joseph who doubled the advantage, with a well-taken goal assisted by Max Billingham. The move was a perfect example of Rutherford's fluid attacking play, as they doubled their lead with ease. Despite Sunderland’s best efforts, Rutherford held firm, and the first half ended 2-0 in their favour.

Sunderland came out with more intent after the break, and their efforts were rewarded just four minutes into the second half when they pulled a goal back. A scruffy goal from a Rutherford point of view, and the goal give Sunderlanda glimmer of hope and some belief that they could mount a comeback.

However, any hopes of a Sunderland revival were quickly extinguished. Just eight minutes later, Max restored Rutherford’s two-goal cushion, grabbing his second of the game with an assist from James. From then on, it was all Rutherford.

In the 60th minute, Sam added a third for Rutherford, converting from a Michael corner kick. Shortly after, Jacob joined in on the scoring spree, first tapping in from close range with a precise assist from Max Billingham, and then adding a second, this time with an assist from Elliott. Rutherford’s lead was now 6-1, and it was clear they were running away with the match.

The goals kept coming. Michael, continuing his excellent form, grabbed his second of the game in the to make it 7-1and Callum rounded off the scoring with a special moment in the final minutes. It was his first goal in over two seasons to make it 8-1.

Rutherford AFC were in a class of their own on the day, putting on an attacking masterclass that left Sunderland West End Blacks with little to show for their efforts. The Veo stats really back up the dominant performance with Rutherford having over 60% possession for the first time this season, completing their highest passing string combinations and totalling 21 shots to Sunderland's 3.

Stand in assistant coach Matty, was given the task of picking today's man of the match. "They all played well, Max Billinghams link up play was on top form and Sam played their striker out of the game. Micheal was a great game changer but overall I'm going with Joseph Fenton as my Man of the Match. He took is goal well and was a constant threat all game. Brilliant performance and he loves playing against Sunderland. Our very own Macken Slayer!"