SHIELDS: OPPOSITION VIEW

We asked some questions about South Shields, to preview our upcoming friendly with the Mariners, to Shields Gazette journalist Mark Carruthers.

South Shields finished 17th last season, was this a disappointment considering they almost got into the promotion play-offs the season prior?

Last season was a major disappointment for South Shields and was the first time in their recent history that they haven’t challenged for something during the second half of a season. They have always been in and around a title race or the play-off places - but last season was all but over by around February. It’s safe to say they will look to improve massively this season under new manager Ian Watson - but I think there is a need for some patience.

How do you see next season going for the Mariners and what is their goal?

A lot will depend on how quickly the players adapt to Ian Watson’s defined style of play. It will be high intensity and there will be major demands placed upon each and ever member of the squad. If they adapt quickly, they can push for the play-offs. If not, then patience will definitely be needed.

How's their transfer window been going so far and what positions do they still need players in?

Really positively - but there is still a lot of work to do and that process is very much ongoing. It’s been hectic but they have improved in key areas and Gateshead’s Robbie Tinkler and Hartlepool United’s Dan Dodds will improve them defensively. As you know, Caden Kelly is a talent and will thrive working under Watson and the signing of Sean McGurk has caught a few by surprise after he left Swindon Town. Cain Sykes comes with good pedigree from Middlesbrough’s academy and there have been positive noises about the signing of Crawley Town keeper Jasper Sheik. Getting long-serving defender and lifelong Sunderland fan Dillon Morse on a new deal is a massive boost too as he still has plenty to give.

As for where needs strengthening, I still think another midfielder and a striker or two would be required. An injury to top goalscorer Paul Blackett could cause some issues.

How has former Sunderland player Martin Smith been getting on and how do you see ex-Sunderland new signing Caden Kelly faring at his new club?

Martin was a big signing when he joined the club in the summer of 2022 and his first season was nothing but a success as he helped the Mariners win the Northern Premier League under the management of Kevin Phillips. After playing a part in the National League North play-off push of the 2023/24 season, he suffered a serious fall that ended with a fractured skull and a bleed on the brain last summer and was well looked after by the club as he carefully made his way back towards full fitness. I don’t think he hit the same levels as his first two seasons during the latter stages of last season - but neither did many of his team-mates as the side struggled to find form. He will hope for better this time around.

As for Caden Kelly, he looks like an Ian Watson style player in every sense of the word. Watson will love his energy and enthusiasm on and off the ball and will look to eek every possible improvement out of him during his first season with the club.

What are your thoughts on manager Ian Watson?

I know Ian really well from his time as a player with the likes of Darlington, Blyth Spartans and Spennymoor Town and during his time coaching alongside Mike Williamson at Gateshead. He’s very focused, his attention to detail is incredible and the fact he gained the respect of EFL players during his time coaching at Carlisle United and MK Dons despite having what some would consider a modest playing career speaks volumes. He is completely focused on implementing his high energy style on the Mariners and, if he can do that quickly, it could be a very exciting season for the club.

How valuable will it be for South Shields' players to play against Premier League opposition?

I think in the past there has always been a bit of a tendency to think these players get starry eyed over facing Premier League or Championship players and for some younger members of the squad that may be true. But for the majority, I think it’s more about getting ready for the new season and the professional attitudes within the Mariners squad will come to the fore. For the club itself, the fact it’s a sellout will tell you everything because that’s a big source of income ahead of the new season.

Who is their best player?

Paul Blackett, their top goalscorer and one of the best strikers in the National League North. It’s always easy to scoff at someone saying a non-league striker could score goals in the EFL - but I am 100% certain Blackett would. He scores goals of every type and is an absolutely nuisance in and around the area. Obviously the levels are very different - but in terms of his style, think of a non-league Kevin Phillips and you’re probably not too far short of where he is at.

Finally, what's your score prediction?

South Shields 1-3 Sunderland