Newcastle United U23 coach Ben Dawson defended his players after their 4-0 thrashing by Sunderland in their Checkatrade Trophy clash.

The Toon coach watched his side put up a battling display in the first half but were unable to keep out the Wearsiders in the second half as the goals flowed for Jack Ross' team.

After the game, Dawson said the scoreline was harsh, he commented: “I think it was.

“We are disappointed with the first two goals, they were a little bit scrappy and we paid the price for not paying attention to the details.

“I thought we did well defending set plays in the first half.

“The two early goals kills the game a little bit. The third goal is a great strike and you are always fighting at that point to get back in it."