The coaches had been discussing this in the pub the previous evening, and after a few beers had the idea of coming to Darlington.
They arrived at Manchester Airport on Thursday 11th May and were collected by coach and taken to the Premier Inn at Morton Palms for the duration of their visit.
On Friday they played against a combined Darlington team who beat them 7-1. As we had no idea how strong their team was, (the team sheet they sent us included German, Polish, Brazilian and English names), we fielded a team containing 4 Academy players, and although the score was 0-0 after 20 minutes, the class difference showed in the end.
However on Saturday the match against the Spraire Lads was much more even and the result was in the balance until the final minutes when Spraire scored to win by 3-2.
During their stay they were offered free entry to Riley’s snooker club , which they enjoyed greatly, had a music night at the Forum fronted by “Browser” who had recently played at a Mülheim music festival, and were given a tour of Sunderland FC and Academy, where they were given souvenirs including a ball signed by the players.
Without sponsorship from local organisations this four day visit would not have been possible, and D&DTTA would wish to thank them for their efforts in furthering the friendship and understanding between our towns. Some of the families involved in this event are still in contact with each other, and private exchanges have since taken place.
Photos to follow.