BLACKBURN Hawks reckon to have unearthed a diamond in ex-Durham teenager Tom Burridge.

Teenager Burridge, son of famous footballing father John, let loose last Sunday with a tremendous four goal spectacular in the Hawks' victory over Castlereagh Knights in the Northern Premier League.

"Tom is an extremely gifted player, and at only 18 he's definitely one to watch for the future," says manager Mike Cockayne.

"He played an outstanding game on Sunday and his performance was first class."

Hawks' four goal dynamo netted a hat-trick inside one period at the game at Castlereagh - a win which has lifted Hawks back into a challenging position near the top of the table.

Burridge will be the one to watch tomorrow as Hawks tackle Billingham in a challenge match at the Blackburn Arena (face off 6.00). The game has been arranged to fill the gap left by Paisley, who Hawks battled with a few weeks ago after re-arranging the date.

"Billingham are bound to make life very tough for us... but we would not want it any other way." adds Mr Cockayne.

And after a shaky start to the season, Hawks will also be going all out, having finally got into the swing at Castlereagh last weekend.

"Our confidence has been restored somewhat and I must praise the attitude, effort and commitment of the squad. Every one of the team played a part and it was good to taste victory again.

"We must now use it as a platform from which to build a season of challenging up at the top of the table. We know that the standard is good in the league with all the teams capable of beating each other."

On Sunday, Hawks journey to Northumbria to tackle the Whitley Warriors in a league fixture.

"It will be a tough game to win...the Warriors are a very physical side and we must be able to match them on that score."

Arena officials have organised a Halloween Party for after Saturday's game in the bar lounge. Music and food will be laid on and interested parties are invited to turn up in fancy dress.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.