Michael Dunwell praises ‘brilliant’ Stockton Town side as Anchors end Hebburn’s winning run

Stockton went behind early after a goal from Liam Murray, but four unanswered goals from set-pieces saw Michael Dunwell’s side to a big win which launched them into the top five.

“It was an excellent performance from start to finish,” Dunwell said post-match. 

“Hebburn are always dangerous on the break, but I thought we defended well, won a lot of second balls, and it was good to finally score off of set-pieces. 

“All four were great balls in. We’ve spoken about our delivery being better, and today it was. We attacked the ball and were more aggressive in the box.”

Hebburn had only conceded three times during their nine-game winning run, but Stockton’s aggressive nature, both from set-pieces and in open play, proved too much for Daniel Moore’s side as they missed the chance to move above league leaders Hednesford Town.

Dunwell believes that when his side plays with high intensity, there aren’t many in the division who can stop them.

“Today was all about getting the three points,” he continued. 

“When we play at a high tempo and play high up the pitch, we’re a totally different team, and it was a really pleasing performance today.

“We’ve had tough spells where we haven’t been consistent with our squad, but we were happy to have that back today, and we’re in a good position.

“We’re happy with how the season is going. We just need to tick these games off and see if we can get a run going.”

Stockton are on the road on New Year’s Day, travelling to Craik Park to take on a Morpeth Town side also buoyed by a big Boxing Day win away at Whitby Town.