Whitley Bay had mixed fortunes this season, particularly in the League where absences of players due to injury and unavailability led to
some inconsistent performances and a disappointing 5th place finish.
In fact, Whitley used a record 31 players throughout the season - an indication that a settled team was almost impossible.
The season had barely started when long serving manager Colin Phillips announced his retirement and the reigns were taken by coach Andy
Windscheffel.
The team reached the final of the League Cup having beaten Redcar, Lumley and Peterlee in the early rounds. In the semi final, they
played our own Reserves team in an unprecedented match that the First team narrowly won 2-1. They met League Champions Huddersfield in
the final and in a close game were beaten by two late goals.
In the FA Cup, Whitley's longstanding history of success saw wins against York City, Tranmere Rovers and Middleton Athletic to reach the
2nd Round Proper where they were knocked out 2-1 by Premier League side Leeds City Vixens.
The Northumberland County Cup competition was Whitley's chance for silverware, a Cup they held from last season. Early round wins
against Percy Main, Ashington and Newcastle University put them in the final against Newcastle United Reserves - a repeat of last season's final.
After going down 2-0, Whitley fought back to win 4-2 and retain their trophy.
So once again, not being able to regularly field their best side in the League has cost us points, but we end the season with a trophy in
the cabinet and a League Cup final appearance.
Mention must be made of the Reserves, who won Division One North and reached the semi final of the League Cup - many congratulations for
a wonderful season.
