14 mins Rittenberg shot 0-1

Half time: Newcastle 0 Rovers 1

Full time: Newcastle 0 Rovers 1

A disappointing display from United's second string saw them exit from the U21 Premier League Cup at the quarter-final stage at St. James' Park on Tuesday evening.

Trailing to a 21st minute goal, Peter Beardsley's side had the majority of possession from that point but proved unable to seriously threaten the visitors' goal. Rovers advanced after Dean Rittenberg beat Dan Barlaser to force Jordan Slew's right wing cross home from at the Gallowgate End.  

Gael Bigirimana then saw a 25 yard effort palmed away by goalkeeper David Raya for a corner soon, before a foul on Barlaser saw Bigi's free kick on the half hour deflected wide with Raya hopelessly out of position.

On-loan duo Adam Campbell and Callum Roberts were included in Newcastle's starting lineup but found goal opportunities hard to come by, as Rovers threatened to make the tie safe with a second goal.

Jordan Slew advanced into the United box in the 50th minute before dragging his shot wide, the same player bringing a save from Brendan Pearson shortly after.  

Adding Tom Heardman and Jonathyn Quinn to the attack in the closing stages prompted a mini -revival, with the former crossing on 85 minutes only for a covering defender to beat Campbell at the expense of a corner.

The ball then arrived at Heardman's feet in the box with just seconds of normal time remaining, but his rising shot was diverted over the crossbar and into the stands.

Things began to unravel for home side in added time, when Bigirimana and former United youngster David Carson squared up to each other in the centre circle.

They were quickly separated by team mates - although Bigi was game for a quick rematch - and both booked. 

Referee Shaun Hudson was soon reaching into his pocket again, showing a second yellow and red to Olivier Kemen, who stupidly left his foot in on Bradley Bauress.

And after having made an encouraging loan debut for Gateshead on Saturday, the sight of Callum Roberts walking off the field in some discomfort with a hamstring strain was hardly welcome. 

A (damn cold) night to forget all round.  

Biffa