Bemused Team Northumbria boss Paul Johnson is counting the cost of a defensive horror show after his side's FA Vase campaign faltered at the first hurdle.

Hosts Crook came away with a 4-2 win as the wheels came off TN's bright start to the season.

And Johnson has vowed to ring the changes at STL Second Division leaders Guisborough on Wednesday - after bidding to sign two new defenders.

"Crook had four chances and scored four goals thanks to some awful defending," said Johnson.

"But we missed a host of chances ourselves and I can't believe this is a game we lost. We must have enjoyed 90% of the possession but we shot ourselves in the foot." 

Team Northumbria proved last season's promotion was fully deserved after kicking off their debut North One East campaign with a thumping win in Carlisle.

The hosts were humbled 41-19 as the league's new boys picked up a bonus-point win to start the new campaign in style.

And delighted rugby chief Steve Bates said: "It was a great performance. The boys were up against a big pack but they stayed strong and played some good rugby. 

In-form Team Northumbria kick off their FA Vase campaign at old rivals Crook Town this weekend as favourites to make the second qualifying round.

Paul Johnson's men have marched into the top six of the STL Northern League second division on the back of three wins from four.

And County Durham stalwarts Crook will have to be at the top of their game to keep their own hopes of FA Vase glory alive.

Check out teamnorthumbria.com for the latest report and reaction from this weekend's big football clash. 

Team Northumbria finally tackle life in North One East this weekend as the new club rugby season takes centre stage.

Steve Bates and head coach Nick Gandy lead a new-look side into action at Carlisle following three successive promotions under Richard Arnold.

And former Newcastle Falcons chief Bates admits his squad are facing a trip into the unknown.

"I've never been to Carlisle and we don't know what to expect," he said. "But we go there full of confidence and with victory in mind.

"We had a good friendly victory last weekend and while there's still a long way to go a lot of good things have happened in the last few weeks."