Marc Walton's 11th minute free-kick set us on our way, although it took a hefty deflection on its way into the net - enough to leave former toon 'keeper Ian Bennett stranded in the opposite side of the goal. 

The opener actually came with the Magpies down to ten men, Daryl Smylie having limped off seconds before.

He was replaced by Liam Atkin and United continued to enjoy the majority of possession without threatening to double their advantage.

At the other end Steve Harper was called into action on 33 minutes, turning away a shot from Asa Hall for a corner.

With no further score before the break, the second half was a more even affair initially, until the visitors lent us another helping hand - or foot to be precise, Marcos Painter volleying home Michael Terrell's 56th corner into his own net.

That ended the game as a contest - not that City had shown much interest in attack - and it was no real shock when Alan O'Brien got the third from the penalty spot five minutes from time, after he had been fouled by Brett Hinks as he prepared to shoot.

The spot kick conversion was no classic but gave the Dubliner his first ever goal at competitive reserve level and some satisfaction, having seen Bennett's acrobatic tip over in the 62nd minute from his twisting run and fierce shot deny him.

A first success at our tenth attempt then, achieved with a side composed of current academy players, plus a scattering of graduates from the junior ranks.

Missing from the fray were Ramage, Taylor, Elliott, Ambrose, Milner and Brittain - some or all of whom may yet be seen in first team action on Thursday or Sunday.   

Biffa 

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