Peter Beardsley reacts to Newcastle Under-21's season-ending defeat to Brighton

Beardsley's side were beaten 4-1 by Brighton and Hove Albion at St James's Park in their final game of their Under-21 Premier League campaign on Monday night.

A youthful Newcastle side had been looking to end a frustrating season with a win.

But basement club Brighton were 1-0 up by the 13th minute, but Luke Charman quickly pulled a goal back for Newcastle, who went on to concede two sloppy second-half goals.

Football development manager Beardsley said: "They've done some good things – there have been lots of positives throughout the season – but, on reflection, that was a poor performance.

"There were mistakes in terms of the goals. Fair play to Brighton, they played some good football and were worthy winners.

"Luke Charman scored a great goal – a nice, clean strike – and you think you're back in the game, but another mistake costs you for the third goal.

"It's all about improvement and growing up and, long-term, getting them back on track."

Released pair Jamie Cobain and Adam Laidler made their final appearances for the club in the game.

And United's Under-21s ended the season 10th in the Under-21 Premier League's 12-team second division.

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