FA Vase Third Round – 15 December 2012

SPENNYMOOR TOWN V BILLINGHAM SYNTHONIA

A week late, at the third attempt, the all Northern League match up at Brewery Field will finally get under way. After the frost and the snow it is a balmy 7 or 8 degrees, cloudy but dry, and the lights are on already for this last game of 2012 (barring a replay). 

Since the original postponement the draw for the next round has been made, so there is an additional incentive to the winners of a home tie to Lordswood from Essex. Spennymoor are favourites, their only loss so far this season has been in the FA Cup; Billingham are having an indifferent year in the league but usually raise their game for the Vase.

Disappointingly Synthonia have forsaken their traditional green and white quarters for yellow shirts and blue shorts; reassuringly Spennymoor stick to the black & white stripes.

In the first minute, Spennymoor attack down the left with the speedy Cogden. The ball is passed along the edge of the penalty area until a shot comes in from Graydon. Billingham keeper Moody saves well, parrying to his right, but in his effort to save the corner the ball slips from his grasp. Cogden pounces and tucks the ball into the goal from the narrow angle.

Spennymoor try to take further advantage of the stunned Synners. Cogden twice runs into the box at speed and is sent tumbling, but the referee considers the tackles fair enough or possibly plays a dubious advantage.

However Billingham survive, regroup and get a foothold in the game. Their main tactic is the through ball down the middle. Although offside more often than not, the quick Crossen occasionally does beat the trap and threaten; but goalkeeper Dean is equally quick off his line and twice picks the ball off the forward’s toe.

The half time whistle is greeted with an eerie silence. Spennymoor fans are not impressed by the failure to build on the gift start, and those few here from Billingham have not really seen a way back from it.

The Billingham midfield spine with Wilson in front of the back four, Liddle in the middle, and Jameson behind the loan striker has been noticeably effective. McWilliams has overlapped well from left back, and Crossen has run the channels tirelessly. For Spennymoor, the defence looks sound and the midfield tidy, but up front only Cogden looks a danger.

The second half commences in the same subdued vein. Spennymoor’s Phillips cuts in from the wing and shoots; Moody saves well but once more as he goes to gather the rebound Cogden pounces. This time Moody only gives the ball up to check the damage to his head; the referee sympathises and awards a free kick, also giving Cogden a good talking to.

Billingham are still in the game, but when they get the opportunity to shoot, the aim is wayward and Dean remains untested.

Approaching the third quarter Cogden robs a defender of the ball about 40 yards from goal. He drives forward a further ten yards before striking a right foot shot into the top left corner of the net. A great goal, rising above the mediocrity of the match, and giving the home team a 2-0 advantage. The second goal seems to relax Spennymoor and minutes later Stephenson runs through at inside left and with a cushioned header controls a through ball which he then heads again over the advancing keeper but just wide of the goal.

Spennymoor are in control now and are kept out only at the expense of corners and free kicks. Billingham keep three up front but can’t get the ball to them. Five minutes from the end Cogden and Moody clash again, this time a genuine fifty-fifty; Cogden is first to get to his feet but sportingly declines to take advantage of the keeper’s distress and plays the ball out for a throw to allow the trainer on. Would he have done the same at nil nil?

At the death Billingham get a free kick just outside the Spennymoor box. A well designed routine sees Liddle play it to Jameson who sets up Wilson for a volley that goes just wide. The midfield trio have not been so effective in the second half but that was a nice reminder of their earlier play.

The game ends at 2-0; a match that seemed a bit low key for a cup tie, albeit graced with a fine goal. Perhaps the teams are too familiar with each other, and hopefully the next round, against fresh opponents from down South, will generate a bit more passion.

FA Cup Second Round - 1 December 2012

HARROGATE TOWN V HASTINGS UNITED

The smallest tie is also the biggest one. The round two match-up between Conference North Harrogate Town and Isthmian Premier League Hastings United involves two of the lesser teams to get this far, but the reward for the winner is all the greater: a place in the fabled third round, with the tantalising prospect of drawing a premiership club, providing a good day out for the fans and cash for the chairman. The occasion has also brought in the ITV cameras to feature the game in the highlights programme.

The CNG Stadium on Wetherby Road will be close to full by kick off with over 2,000 advance tickets sold. After a week of floods and frost it is mercifully fine; sunny of course but cold under the cloudless blue sky. A 1pm kick off should keep the temperature above freezing for the duration. The hot pork sandwich van and the designer coffee bar, very Harrogate, will provide supplementary warmth if needed.

The pitch is a mixture of green, brown and sand; undulating, damp and likely to cut up a bit. Already a muddy patch has appeared already where Harrogate have been doing their warm up shuttle runs. Of course we saw Harrogate in the second qualifying round where they gave up a two goal lead at West Auckland, but they have come through the replay and three rounds since then. Today, at home, they can wear their black and yellow striped shirts and black shorts. Hastings are in claret shirts with a blue yoke and white shorts.

Black and yellow balloons go up as the teams come out and exchange handshakes. For the toss up a welcoming committee of five, intent on a TV cameo and a photo opportunity, splodge across the pitch and the bemused referee indulges them with a handshake and a photo before they depart and he starts the game.

Harrogate are quick out of the blocks and in the first ten minutes give the Hastings defence a few uncomfortable moments as the ball flashes across their goal. Uncomfortable then becomes painful as Hastings keeper Armstrong-Ford rushes out to field a dangerous through ball, which he collects just ahead of Beesley’s outstretched, studs-up boot. Unsurprisingly he drops the ball and rolls into a crumpled heap; unsurprisingly Beesley is booked. After treatment Armstrong-Ford hobbles back to goal but looks in trouble.

Only a minute later Harrogate full back Merris makes a clean tackle in midfield and plays a great through ball for Beesley to run on to. This time he is favourite to reach it, but the keeper bravely goes down at his feet and saves well, getting another kicking for his trouble.

It is mainly Harrogate on the attack with both full backs pressing forward. Centre forward Chilaka is running the channels, twisting and turning and generally looking dangerous. Hastings do get up-field from time to time and come close when Attwood sets up Okojie for a 20 yard shot that whistles past the right hand post.

Down the other end Armstrong-Ford is back in action, off his line to collect a through ball; this time it is Chilaka who falls over him. By now the keeper has a distinct limp and requires his centre half to take the goal kicks.

But Harrogate are waning slightly and Hastings’ Goldberg, a tricky number 11 with pony tail and attitude, is becoming increasingly effective, getting a few crosses over from the left. The Harrogate defence is dealing with most but on one occasion only a desperate lunging block by centre half White prevents a close range shot on goal.

Five minutes from half time Harrogate get back on the attack and win a corner on the left. It goes deep, drawing most players, including the keeper, that way; when the ball is hooked back by White, Platt is on hand, unchallenged, to nod it down and over the line for the opening goal.

Harrogate have worked hard and attacked well most of the half, so deserve this lead, but Hastings have had a good spell or two and this game is far from won.

The players emerging for the second half include Armstrong-Ford, complete with enormous knee bandage, but for the early exchanges he is largely a spectator. Hastings are re-invigorated, or maybe are finally coming to terms with the heavy pitch, and pin Harrogate back in their own half for long spells. Chilaka does gets an opportunity on the break down the inside right channel but is shepherded wide and his shot, though powerful, is off target.

Hastings’ brightest forward Goldberg has drifted inside and when he collects a ball on the edge of the box with his back to goal he seems well policed; but he turns well and curls a right footed shot past the Harrogate keeper MacGillivray and onto the far post. On hand to react is teammate Crellin who pounces to slot in the rebound for a deserved equaliser. Harrogate react with vigour and Beesley stings the hands of Armstrong-Ford from 20 yards, but at this end Chilaka cannot accept the rebound.

Minutes later Hastings again threaten through a Goldberg twisting run and shot. It is blocked, but the ball finds Ellis on the left, who rolls it across the six yard box to Atwood. However his sidefoot is weak and straight at MacGillivray, who falls on it gratefully. Hastings remain dominant, quicker to the loose ball, of which there are now many as the game becomes scrappier in the developing mud.

By the time the last quarter hour approaches a few substitutes are introduced, including Harrogate’s Clayton who gives the attack a lift, looking lively down the left wing. He gets a good cross over but Chilaka’s header thumps against the top of the post before being scrambled clear. Three added minutes are announced, and it is Harrogate who finish stronger, less content than Hastings over the prospect of a replay. Two or three free kicks into the box raise hopes in the home crowd, but to no avail and the referee calls time with no further addition to the score.

The 1-1 result is fair enough, and both teams will retain an interest in the third round draw, as will the 2,926 spectators who have had a good day out in sunny, if muddy, Harrogate.

FA Vase Second Round – 17 November 2012

SPENNYMOOR TOWN V NEWCASTLE BENFIED

It’s sunny but cool after overnight rain for this all Northern League tie. Brewery Field shows some improvement since the cup run’s last visit in September 2011, with a freshly tarmacked elevated area opposite the main stand. But Dire Straits still welcome the teams onto the field, Spennymoor in their magpie stripes and Benfield in blue & white hoops a la QPR.

There is also still the slope, with the goal line at one end level with the bar at the other. Benfield have chosen to play uphill in the first half, and are soon on the defensive as Spennymoor probe with Capper, Graydon and Phillips forming neat triangles down the left. Benfield slowly find their feet with midfielder Deverdics showing nice touches and winger Norris having fullback-worrying pace.

A Benfield attack breaks down and Spennymoor counter with left winger Phillips. He beats full back Gillespie and unleashes a fierce shot that thuds into goal keeper Grainger’s chest and then out for a corner. That corner leads to a second and a driven shot well tipped over by Grainger.

The pressure from Spennymoor is relentless; and when Cogden tries to manoeuvre into space in the Benfield box, he is upended by centre half Leighton. Despite the latter’s protestations it’s a clear penalty and Cogden steps up and slots it high to the top right corner of the net to give Spennymoor a deserved 1-0 lead.

Three minutes later Cogden is in action again with a shot from distance. Grainger saves well but as the ball drops free a Spennymoor player is bundled over and another penalty is the referee’s verdict. Cogden is again on duty but this time the elevation is too much and the penalty kick hits the roof of the stand.

Benfield gain encouragement and hold their own for a while, but when one of their attacks breaks down Phillips races forward for Spennymoor and crosses deep from the left. At the far post Leighton inexplicably waves an arm at the ball, makes contact and so concedes his second and the team’s third penalty of the half. This time Cogden aims bottom left and succeeds in making it 2-0.

As half time approaches Norris speeds clear for Benfield and sweeps the ball into centre forward Young’s path. But he is denied a shot by good covering and although he eventually wins a free kick, it leads to nothing as Deverdic’s shot is blocked by the defensive wall.

So by half time the Spennymoor keeper Dean remains untroubled by a shot on target. Benfield players show some individual skill but there is a lack of combination; Spennymoor on the other hand are very sharp and purposeful in all they do.

The sun is well down for the start of the second half and the temperature is dropping fast in the clear floodlit air. A cup of Bovril is called for, and to minimise the danger of it being hit by the ball I head for the safest spot in the ground – behind the Spennymoor goal – for a new perspective on the game.

Though now playing up the 10 foot slope, the trend continues to be Spennymoor pressure and Grainger is soon called on to make saves. However Norris remains a dangerous outlet for Benfield and twice he streaks away down the left; firstly shooting spectacularly high and wide, but then crossing low across the six yard box without a teammate able to apply a finish.

The action reverts to the other end and Grainger dashes out of his area to challenge for a through ball, which then bobbles to Spennymoor winger Walton. Thirty-five yards out he lofts the ball into the empty net, emulating Ibrahamavic’s fourth for Sweden, apart from the fact he is neither facing the wrong way nor four feet in the air when he makes contact. But it still good enough for a 3-0 lead.

Benfield, to their credit, continue to apply themselves and soon gain a corner. From the aerial challenges the ball eventually falls to Leighton, temporarily upfield to add height to the set play. His first swing of the boot is almost an air shot, but he quickly regroups his feet and makes good contact with a second attempt, creating a satisfying bulge in the home net. At 1-3 is a comeback on?

It only takes a couple of minutes to get an answer. A Spennymoor through ball again has Grainger racing from his line, but this time Walton gets there first and pushes it past the keeper, who then obligingly knocks him over. It is penalty number four and Cogden expands his repertoire with a low shot to the right this time to restore the three goal margin at 4-1.

With twenty minutes to go it’s all but over. Spennymoor continue to strut their stuff and Cogden, striving to embellish his penalty hat trick with a proper goal, hits the post from 20 yards; the rebound is knocked in but is ruled offside. He is then withdrawn for Richardson who, as added time is announced, finishes off the scoring by sweeping in the fifth goal from a fine cross by full back Groves.

Five one doesn’t flatter Spennymoor who look strong in all departments. This performance will do little to shake the bookies’ confidence in them as FA Vase favourites. As the programme points out, this may be their last season in this competition, as another successful defence of their Northern League title may mean accepting promotion to the Northern Premier and future cup runs being in the Trophy rather than the Vase.

But that is for the future (and Darlington 1883 may put a spoke in that wheel); for now Wembley remains in sight and no team will want to play them in round three.

FA Cup First Round - 3 November 2012

YORK CITY V AFC WIMBLEDON

League 2 teams enter the FA Cup at this round and two of them meet here at Bootham Crescent. York regained Football League status this season after eight in the conference; AFC Wimbledon attained it last season capping an impressive rise from their Southern League re-formation in 2002 in the wake of the Milton Keynes hi-jack of the original club.

After a half term week of wind and rain today is cool but bright in York and the pitch looks freshly mown and perfect. The ground is covered on three sides with seating down the touchlines. Standing behind the goal with the home fans, leaning on a crush barrier, it’s just like the old days. The £16 entry and £3 programme are more like the new days.

York’s colourful strip is a red shirt with white sleeves and blue shorts; Wimbledon’s yellow shirt has a South American style sky blue diagonal. York appear to have won the toss, as Wimbledon kick off with their keeper peering into the setting but still bright sun.

York start well and force a couple of early corners which, recognising the height advantage of the Wimbledon defenders, are dinked effectively into the near post. Wimbledon respond with good work down the right with Jolley catching the eye with some trickery. But it is York who have most of the ball and exert most of the pressure, forcing back passes and harrying Wimbledon keeper Brown into hurried and often sliced clearances.

About twenty minutes in, the York pressure crystallises into a firm shot from Smith which is deflected over the and, from the resulting cleared corner, a curled effort from Kearns that comes back off the crossbar. Later, a good run from Chambers is foiled by a last ditch tackle.

As the half nears its conclusion York’s high energy game is flagging, but two further corners give the home fans hope before a quick Wimbledon break produces a fierce shot on target. York keeper Ingham parries and the ball runs dangerously loose before a defender hoofs it over the stand.

So it’s nil-nil at half time. York have looked the more likely to score; their small but nippy forwards have stretched the big defenders on the ground, but have not got past them. Wimbledon’s best attacking has been from the right, but it has been sporadic and it is them that will be happiest with half time equity.

One winner at half time is announced: Yorkie the Lion has won the mascot race run at Doncaster (whether the football ground or the racecourse is unclear, but probably not over the fences) held in support of Prostate Cancer UK. He takes a bow.

York are out very early for the second half, but make a poor start that ends with a nervy back pass and a rushed clearance out of the ground from Ingham. He is soon exposed again as Wimbledon half time substitute, centre forward Harrison, has a run on goal ended by a well-timed tackle. York’s response results in a few corners but it is Wimbledon who have the better efforts on goal. Left back Cummings thumps a shot just over from 30 yards, and then Midson drifts inside from the left but screws a good shooting chance wide of the near post. Harrison continues to make an impact, but his inviting cross along the six yard line finds no team mates.

York are second best now and manager Gary Mills makes a change, well received by the home fans, bringing on Reed for McLaughlin up front. It signals a good spell from York. Centre forward Walker finally wriggles free to cut in and send a right foot shot narrowly over. Then a poor clearance from Brown is seized upon by Kerr who plays Walker through, allowing him to draw the keeper and square the ball to Reed to tap in for a 1-0 home lead.

York don’t sit back but go for the second goal. A shot from distance is uncomfortably shuffled away by Brown; a wicked cross is headed behind by a defender, and from the corner a header goes wide. A rare break by Wimbledon sees Harrison one on one with the back-pedalling Smith, who just manages to nick the ball off him.

It is lively, end to end stuff now and Wimbledon make their final substitutions with Strutton and Osano coming on with 15 minutes to go. But Brown continues to be the busier keeper saving a cross shot then blocking the follow up effort at the near post.

Wimbledon do get upfied and are awarded a free kick just outside the York penalty area. Number 9 Harrison has first dibs on the kick but only chips it tamely over the wall into Ingham’s chest. When another clumsy York challenge gives a second opportunity from the same spot, Harrison is shooed away and substitute Strutton has a go. This one is hit fiercer and pin balls off the edge of the wall and the inside of the post before rolling over the line, behind the bemused Ingham, for the equaliser.

York are stung into action and try to regain the lead. Walker’s dipping free kick from the edge of the box goes over, as does a shot from Reed. When yet another near post corner is flicked on and headed firmly towards the gaping net the crowd rise in anticipation only to gasp in disbelief as Brown somehow flies across his goal and palms it away.

Four minutes added time brings frantic attempts from both teams to break the deadlock, including a 40 yard effort from Harrison for Wimbledon and a York header that goes just wide. But there is no decider and a replay a week on Tuesday will determine who goes through to round two.

All but 285 of the 2,752 crowd leave a little disappointed that York were unable to make home advantage and better league position tell on the day. These teams meet again in the league next Saturday, so the tie may be decided eventually by attrition rather than inspiration.

FA Cup Fourth Qualifying Round - 20 October 2012

GUISELEY V BUXTON

The fourth qualifying round has just the 32 games nationwide so it is back down the A1 for a first visit to Guiseley. Still, it’s good driving weather in the autumn sunshine, and perfect again for cup football. Nethermoor Park, tucked between the town and the railway, is neat and tidy in blue and white livery and the pitch looks good.

It’s a big game for both teams. The winners not only get a £12,500 prize payout but also go into the first round draw with clubs from League 1 & 2. Guiseley are the senior team, from the Blue Square North, and they are aiming to reach that stage for the 6^th time in the last 20 years. Buxton, only a step behind in the Evo Stick (Northern) Premier League, have won 3 away ties to get here so will not be fazed.

The spectators almost constitute a crowd; the usual attendance of between 400 and 500 could be swollen by the magic of the FA Cup, and the good weather. The teams enter the pitch to Queen’s “Rock You” through an under-7’s guard of honour. Guiseley in white shirts and navy shorts, Buxton in all red, line up for the obligatory FA Cup handshakes facing the dug outs, which unfortunately presents their backs to most of the crowd in the 2 galvanised steel stands.

From the kick off Guiseley camp in the Buxton half. Even the full backs are pressing. Left back McWilliams is fouled on the edge of the penalty area (just outside according to the referee) and right back Holdsworth shoots strongly but straight at the keeper. Guiseley’s Walshaw looks particularly useful and links well down the left before having a cross blocked.

Buxton, when they do get the ball, move it quickly forward and generate a couple of threatening situations. Left wing Duncum beats his full back once or twice and midfielder Istead cracks a long range effort into keeper Drench’s midriff.

But these are isolated incidents that interrupt Guiseley’s control of the game. As the half hour approaches centre forward Wilson shoots left footed at keeper Deakin. A minute later Walshaw feeds the same player well but he mis-controls and wastes a great position. This is followed up with another good combination down the left and when McWilliams crosses, it is Wilson again who gets his head to it to force Deakin into a scrambling save at the foot of the post. It feels like a goal is inevitable. McWilliams again has space on the left and although his measured cross is cleared, his teammate Brooksby on the right swings it back into the centre for Walshaw to rise unchallenged to head home from 6 yards.

Guiseley now have their tails up and push hard for the second goal their play deserves. The only Buxton threat is from free kicks, and long throws from centre half Roberts. As half time approaches Guiseley nearly score again with a tame header from Walshaw that bounces off the foot of the post.

Half time is greeted with warm applause from the home fans whose pleasure is muted by the shocking announcement that the hot food is already sold out, a result of the impressive attendance of 847. In truth the 1-0 score line is scant reward for their dominance as Walshaw, Rothery and Wilson have been very mobile and combined well up front. For Buxton centre half Roberts has performed well under the pressure. The Buxton one man attack force of Morris has had little chance, mostly chasing down long balls that are more hurried clearances than passes. When a ball is hit to him and he can link with midfielders Towey and Duncum possibilities emerge, but disappear when hesitation allows Guiseley to funnel back and snuff out danger.

The second half commences in familiar pattern. A good Guiseley combination down the left culminates in a shot wide from Walshaw; two further shots go wide before Buxton respond with a long throw and hoisted free kick into the box.

After about 10 minutes Buxton substitute Reed comes on and immediately one of Roberts’ long throws falls to him. His first touch of the game is goal bound but keeper Drench takes sufficient pace off the shot for his defenders to keep the ball out and smuggle it back to him. Reed is first to the next long throw but heads narrowly wide from close in. He repeats the trick from a free kick but this time heads over the bar.

This is the best Buxton have looked; Reed’s arrival up front has given them more energy and a better shape and by the midpoint they look the more likely to score next. Guiseley have lost their fluency and their coach decides to take off Wilson & Walshaw, so impressive in the first half, sending on Holsgrove & Boshell. The only outcome is a corner headed over the bar.

At every opportunity Buxton send centre halves Haggerty and Roberts forward for set plays, and from one hoisted free kick Roberts heads just past the far post. Reed gets a shot on target but it is too straight to worry Drench; the same applies to a looping header from yet another long throw that he clutches under the bar.

Roberts is now staying up front and so Guiseley have chances on the break and the last five minutes is frantic end to end stuff. From another Buxton long throw (Roberts must have arms of steel) Reed manufactures an overhead kick but defender Holdsworth’s face is in the way and danger is cleared.

Three added minutes are announced. Roberts uses the last of his strength to hurl in another Delap-esque missile, a Buxton head gets to it but again it goes wide of the post. Up the other end the Guiseley substitutes Holsgrove & Boshell finally combine effectively with Rothery and force a good save from Deakin. As time ticks down these two are again in evidence. Holsgrove chases down a clearance and works inside; when his shot is blocked the ball falls to Boshell who calmly steers his shot into the goal.

The second goal could hardly have come later as full time is blown seconds after the restart. As Guiseley gather in the centre circle for a debriefing, Buxton troop off the pitch to a good hand from the relieved home fans, showing welcome respect to opponents who came back strongly in the second half.

Guiseley’s 2-0 win gets them the reward of a place in the first round draw, and also overcomes the home team curse that the cup run has inflicted in the previous 5 rounds.

FA Vase First Round - 13 October 2012

NEWTON AYCLIFFE V ESH WINNING

The sunshine this week has a distinctly autumnal feel to it; the sun is lower in the sky and though it warms the skin it has little effect on the cool air. The pitch looks to have weathered the recent heavy rains well enough but it may cut up as the game progresses. Otherwise conditions are perfect.

In an all Northern League tie Newton Aycliffe in blue face Esh Winning in green; both have come through the qualifying rounds. Aycliffe have not won since the last round and have only two victories all season leaving them at the foot of Division 1. Esh Winning have won through two rounds (including against our hosts from last week Tadcaster) and are doing OK in Division 2.

The game is open from the start. The early exchanges require Spence in the visitor’s goal to save a glancing header and a shot from distance, but both are straight at him. His opposite number is not called on as threats on his goal are off target.

By mid-half Aycliffe begin to get the upper hand; a nice move down the right sets up Young on the edge of the box, but his low shot to the corner is tipped round the post by Spence. Five minutes later an Aycliffe free kick from distance is thumped well by full back Harvey but the Esh Winning wall holds fast at the cost of some personal discomfort.

Esh Winning have less of the game but centre forward Ward is winning his share of high balls and Thompson looks both skilful and pacey in support. As half time approaches, for reasons unknown, the Aycliffe central defenders suddenly absent themselves from the traditional position in the middle of their own half. When the ball appears there, a race between Thompson and covering fullback Knox will have only one winner. Thompson not only gets there first, he draws keeper Pocklington out of position then calmly slots the ball into the open net.

Aycliffe try to respond at once. Skipper Tarling battles through into the penalty area but centre half Wilson caps a fine display with a last ditch challenge. The final attempt of the half however comes as an Esh Winning’s free kick is headed clear but only to their number 10, Wing, who volleys neatly but wide.

At half time Aycliffe troop off puzzled at how they are losing. They have had more possession and territory, but have only looked like scoring from outside the box. Anything closer in has been met or blocked by Wilson and Oakley. Esh Winning have had more room to attack into, and Thompson’s pace and determination has been a constant threat.

Five minutes into the second half an Esh Winning attack down the right culminates in an accurate dipping volley from Wing. It’s well out and keeper Pocklington is well positioned to deal with it, but inexplicably the ball slips through his hands and rolls in slow motion over the line for 2-0.

Within another five minutes Aycliffe boss Alan Oliver responds with a triple substitution which includes putting his assistant Mellanby on up front. Esh Winning fall back as Aycliffe press hard. Twice left wing Hughes cuts in across the edge of the box and shoots right footed; the first screws wide of the near post and the second is hit sweeter but flies past the far.

Mellanby is adding presence to the attack but the more telling substitution is Dawson in midfield. He is either given or is able to find space and time to play in some well-judged balls. One gives centre forward Earl a chance but Spence is quick off his line and just gets to it first. The dual continues as Spence gets down sharply to Earl’s shot on the turn.

As time gets short Aycliffe go three at the back with centre half Craddock joining Earl and Mellanby up front. Dawson twice hits in a long diagonal ball and Craddock wins both, one amounts to nought but another forces a save under the bar from Spence. When a third ball comes in Spence decides to challenge for it himself but the outcome is inconclusive and the ball falls to Mellanby who knocks it into the unguarded net from a couple of yards.

Eight minutes left and 1-2 down Aycliffe continue to bombard the Esh Winning penalty area. Mellanby may not be too mobile now but his goal scoring instincts are still sharp and it is he who finds space, first to fire narrowly wide and then to turn cleverly and put the ball dangerously across the six yard line, where it bobbles up out of a melee into the arms of a grateful Spence.

As full time approaches a rare Esh Winning excursion up front results in a comic moment when Pocklington picks up a ball deflected off his defender, ruled a back pass by the referee. The free kick is 4 yards out and the Aycliffe line up in the goal mouth would make a passable team photo. It does its job blocking the attempt, but a corner results and the last rites of the game are played out around the corner flag as Esh Winning successfully wind down the clock.

Esh Winning’s winning continues and their Vase run goes on. Newton Aycliffe did not do enough to win, but did enough to lose.

FA Cup Third Qualifying Round - 6 October 2012

TADCASTER ALBION V BOSTON UNITED

With West Auckland losing their replay at Harrogate, the Northern League’s representation in the FA Cup ended in the previous round leaving thin pickings and a tidy trip needed to keep the cup run going. Step forward Tadcaster Albion of the North East Counties League Premier Division, through to this stage for the first time ever and drawn against Boston United of the Conference North. This is a similar set up to the last round with a “step 5” team at home to one from “step 2”. Tadcaster have beaten a couple of Northern League teams in earlier rounds and also Holker Old Boys who we saw in the opening round at Newton Aycliffe, but this will be a tougher test.

The lexicographically challenging “2inspire Park”, tucked away behind the dominating, hop-scented, presence of the John Smiths brewery, is a pleasant tree-lined ground with few seats and little cover but a very popular club house with windows overlooking the pitch. Fortunately it is another dry sunny day for the FA Cup and hopes are for a good game, particularly as a seat at the Man City v Sunderland match has been declined in its favour!

The pitch looks in good condition despite (or because of) a recent flooding as Tadcaster in sunshine yellow line up against Boston in a white shirts and red shorts; clearly a change strip as their numerous fans, the majority of the 300 odd spectators, sport amber and black favours.

Boston start confidently and have their opponents penned in for the first five minutes, then Tadcaster find their feet and fizz in a dangerous free kick from the right. For 20 minutes it is fairly even with both sides taking every opportunity to shoot from distance, some closer to the goal than others but none needing a save. The first shot on target arises from a Tadcaster long throw that is successfully defended but falls invitingly for a volley that is headed clear.

Gradually Tadcaster get the upper hand, their simpler style of play proving more effective on a pitch that does not play as well as it looks. Its bobbly nature is interfering with Boston’s desire to pass and move. In midfield Boston’s playmaker Ross looks skilful but is being steamrollered by the two Kamaras (Nathan and Chris) in Tadcaster’s engine room. Boston’s troubles escalate when Fairclough is first booked then spoken to severely in the space of 5 minutes. His manager substitutes him, fearing a sending off, but this strategy is undermined when his replacement Stokes promptly gets himself booked.

The final five minutes of the half sees action at both ends. Stokes finds space on the right and his shot hits the outside of the post; at the other end a soft free kick awarded to Tadcaster sees a left foot curler threaten the far post, but only ripple the roof of the net.

The half time verdict is a good game with plenty of action despite the lack of goals. Boston’s early attempt to impose their status was rebuffed mainly through efforts of Nathan and Chris Kamara, whose physicality the Boston midfield could not match. But up front only Gray, Tadcaster's big centre forward, looks a threat and he is both isolated and well marshalled by Boston’s Stainfield. For Boston centre forward Jones has worked hard and left winger Thompson posed an early threat until full back Silk worked him out.

The second half bursts into life with a Tadcaster attack. Nathan Kamara bundles his way into the penalty but Stainfield nicks the ball off his toe before he can shoot. Boston seem to have adapted their game to the pitch and soon loft a high diagonal ball into Tadcaster’s box. Goalkeeper Haystead leaps, catches, fumbles then drops the ball at the feet of centre forward Jones who, almost embarrassed, pokes it over the line for an unexpected but welcome goal.

Tadcaster are stunned and take about ten minutes to regain a foothold in the game. Just as they do Boston substitute Marshall hits a gem of a through ball down the inside right channel. Jones is right on the last man but offside appeals are ignored as he bears down on goal. Keeper Haystead comes to meet him and forces him wide but then clumsily, and unnecessarily, collides with him to concede the penalty. As the ball was running wide the yellow card is appropriate, just one of many sensible rulings by today’s referee Mr Miller. Ward converts steps the spot kick to give Boston a 2-0 lead.

Tadcaster continue to compete but Boston now look more comfortable and the game is being played out in the Tadcaster half and the chances are coming in the Tadcaster box. One falls to Ward when a free kick from 30 yards is dinked cleverly into him, but his close range effort is well saved by Haystead.

The usual rash of substitutions towards the end has little impact other than to give Tadcaster’s James the opportunity to whack Stokes with little subtlety; the assault deserves a red card but Mr Miller decides on yellow, blotting his otherwise faultless performance.

Tadcaster finish with a flurry of corners, free kicks and long throws but Boston’s defence continues to cope and gets a well-deserved clean sheet.

Boston will be in the draw for the fourth and final qualifying round as one of the 40 survivors who along with the 24 Conference teams will contest just 32 ties to see who will get a crack at Football League opposition in the First Round proper.

Just 32 matches nationwide so fingers crossed for a Gateshead home draw!

FA Cup Second Qualifying Round - 22 September 2012

WEST AUCKLAND V HARROGATE TOWN

Once again the sun is shining on the cup run (remember these days when January & February comes around) but as we are at West Auckland the temperature is warm rather than hot. The elevated Darlington Road ground is covered on one side only but provides welcome padding on the seats in the stand.

West, in amber and black, are at home to Harrogate Town, whose Blue Square shoulder patches on their blue kit marks them out as from the higher league. Northern League West Auckland will need to produce their early season form that saw them win 5 of the first 6 games if they are to progress.

The home team, presumably having lost the toss, kick off down the distinct slope and immediately fashion danger. Star centre forward and captain Mattie Moffat beats his marker on the left a couple of times but his cross is cleared. Five minutes later he repeats the trick and this time he finds fellow striker Gardner who shoots over.

It is a very crisp competitive start. Neither team can get control of midfield. Harrogate bypass it with a long goalkeeper clearance that the West defence unwisely allow to bounce beyond them. Harrogate centre forward Chib Chilaka shows his pace in getting to the ball first, but pokes it wide of the both the keeper and the goal.

West persevere with their passing game and get some joy carving out a shooting opportunity for Banks. Harrogate look most dangerous when they play the ball behind the West back four for the quick Chilaka and Osborne to chase down.

Midway through the half the three league gap is not evident but then a poor back pass leaves West’s keeper Bell at the mercy of Chilaka. Drawn out of position he does well to stand up and buy time while his defenders race to cover the goal line. Just when it looks like they may have snuffed the danger, Chilaka coolly lifts a shot through the crowded area into the net for the lead.

The goal settles Harrogate and unsettles West in equal measure and the balance of the game tilts to the away team for about ten minutes. West regroup though and Gardner manages a short range stab at goal that is saved by MacGillivray. The keeper then does even better, diving to his right to tip a well-placed shot from Banks round the post.

There is still time before the interval for Harrogate’s Luke Dean to threaten to increase the lead. First from inside the box he crashes a shot off the bar and then works a position for a left foot shot that brings a good diving save from Bell.

The half time verdict is a good game between two well matched sides. West Auckland have played the more creative football, carving out 2 or 3 good openings and only denied a goal by some very good goalkeeping. They have also made mistakes in dangerous areas, presenting chances, one of which led to the goal. But in the second half West will face an uphill task both metaphorically and geographically.

Into the second half Chilaka continues to find space and hangs up a cross on the far post where the header is well blocked by a combination of defender and keeper. West also threaten and MacGillivray makes a series of saves that gets grudging appreciation from the home fans. In between, Osborne shoots over for Harrogate. The frantic action must herald a goal soon, but at which end?

With 15 minutes to go Chilaka overhits a pass to the right wing but instead of going dead the ball hits the corner flag. Osborne, more alert to the situation than the defence, collects and returns it to Chilaka in the box. He makes himself a bit of space and shoots clinically into the far corner of the goal to double the lead.

West are down but not despondent and continue to press for a goal of their own. John Campbell plays a 1-2 in the Harrogate box and when his cross cum shot strikes a Harrogate arm the cries of handball are rewarded with the award of a penalty kick. Campbell takes it and scores to bring it back to 1-2 with 10 minutes left.

Harrogate think they still have done enough. West’s crosses and corners are over hit, their shots from distance are wayward, blocked or well saved by the keeper who has had great game.

Three added minutes are to be played and Harrogate have the ball down near the corner flag. The coach’s cries of “hold it” thankfully fall on deaf ears and an aimless cross is fielded by the keeper and shipped upfield. Moffat gains control on the right wing and when his chipped centre comes back to him he rifles in a shot for the latest of equalisers.

On the final whistle the West Auckland players sink to the floor, their efforts in the final quarter were heroic and a replay is fair reward. The Harrogate players look plain puzzled at how they let this one slip; but they got ahead only by punishing errors with good finishing, and stayed there as long as they did only due to some fine goalkeeping.

The replay on Tuesday will decide whose cup run will make it into October.

FA Vase Second Qualifying Round 15 September 2012

CHESTER LE STREET TOWN V NORTON & STOCKTON ANCIENTS

 

Another sunny Saturday for a cup tie and this week it is the FA Vase at Moor Park, Chester Le Street. The out of town ground behind the Chester Moor pub is pleasantly ramshackle with most of the 100 or so spectators in and around the stand behind the team dug outs. From the seats there is a good view of the pitch and also, on the hills opposite, the distinctive Greek temple-like Penshaw Monument.

Both teams were spared the first qualifying round, and both are already out of the FA Cup; so for one team the cup run ends here, for the other a trip to Washington or Jarrow Roofing awaits in the next round. Although Norton are in division 1 of the Northern League, division 2 Chester have home advantage so a competitive game is likely.

Chester, in blue and white hoops, apply the early pressure but Norton, in amber and black, hold them and get back into the game winning the first corner after 10 minutes. Chester keeper Crook punches clear but Norton threaten again with a shot from Woodhouse, a number 10 with a trick or two, and hair to match; and then from a free kick from left back Wells.

Chester respond with a good left wing cross to the far post where Jukes heads just wide; and then a when free kick on the right is whipped in left footed by McDonald, centre back Donaldson glances a header into the net to give the home team a 1-0 lead.

The game now becomes end to end, but not in a good way – first time clearances upfield and too much header tennis in the middle. The football competes for attention with the extreme scootering undertaken by the kids on the terracing behind one goal. However as half time approaches a flurry of action regains focus on the match.

Chester lose possession on half way and the ball finds Norton centre forward Hume clear for once of his marker (the impressive Robson). His angled shot is powerfully hit but wide of the far post. Norton too have chances; from a cleared corner Clarke sets up Woodhouse on the edge of the box but his precisely placed effort is read by Crook and tipped over the bar.

The half time verdict is that Chester Le Street have had the better of a scrappy but competitive half, showing more control and more accurate passing. Their simple approach of long ball into three nippy forwards, Forsyth, McDonald and Lynch, to hold and work openings for each other or supporting colleagues, at least gives them some structure. Norton & Stockton have been less coherent: Clarke stands out in midfield for his industry and presence and Woodhouse shows skill when he can get into the game. They have looked dangerous only from corners and free kicks.

At the start of the second half both keepers are called into early action but cope easily. Then about 10 minutes in, the officials make a controversial call. The ball is knocked over the Norton defence where Forsyth is clearly in an offside position. He knows it so ignores the pass, and while the Norton defence stand and wait for the whistle, teammate McDonald races through onto the ball, draws the keeper and passes square for Forsyth, who has now joined in the attack to slot home. Now the assistant referee has his flag up – whether relating to the original offside or a new one is between him and his conscience, but either way the home fans are not happy.

Worse is to come as Norton immediately go on the attack where Woodhouse works his way down the right and crosses for Hume to force in a shot under severe challenge to make it 1-1. He is left in a crumpled but happy heap, able to limp back into action after treatment.

With all to play for the tempo picks up and tackles get a bit more intense; one goes too far and leads to a booking for Chester’s Buzzeo. Norton’s Clarke escapes with a good telling off for his dissent. A fierce shot from Scope is Chester’s best effort at a response but increasingly Norton are on the attack. Shots from range, crosses and, most dangerously, corners hung under the bar, give Crook plenty of punching practice.

Midway through the half, Clarke and Buzzeo challenge for a high ball in midfield. The referee blows but as Clarke begins to complain about the decision it is Buzzeo who is in trouble. The referee indicates an elbow, shows him a second yellow card and just like that Chester are down to ten men with 20 minutes left.

Buzzeo’s departure is exacerbated when his midfield partner Jukes has to be substituted. This gives Clarke more room to boss the midfield and Norton pour forward for the winner. They get joy on both flanks but cannot produce the killer ball or telling shot on target. So at ninety minutes it is still 1-1 and, being the Vase, it is straight to extra time.

It takes only 6 minutes to break the deadlock. Norton’s full backs combine, with Wells crossing deep from the left for an unmarked Lilley to power in a header coming in from the right. That should be that for Chester, but the referee, nothing if not consistent, again sees an elbow fly in a challenge for a high ball. This time it is Norton substitute Storr who is guilty, and his short cameo ends with a red card.

So at ten a side Chester could be back in with a shout; but with a few walking wounded they rarely threaten. Credit to Norton who continue to look for a third rather than play for time. After a couple more yellow cards the final whistle signals the end of a hard fought game.

Norton upped their game in the second half and looked the more likely winners once Chester lost Buzzeo and Jukes and left Norton’s Clarke unfettered in midfield. Norton go on to play another division 2 team away and will have hopes of progressing further.

FA Cup First Qualifying Round - 8 September 2012

DURHAM CITY V SHILDON

It is warm and sunny again – September is so the new summer!  The sky is blue, the clouds are fluffy & white, and the pitch is green.  Of course, this being New Ferens Park, home of Durham City FC, its plastic and will be green all season except when it snows. The ground is open on three sides with a large 300 seater stand on the other, providing an excellent elevated view as well as some covered (today shaded) standing room.

Shildon followed up the previous round’s 6-0 replay win with an 11-0 thumping of South Shields, but Durham City have home advantage and will hope that their opponents have used up their goal allocation for the month. With Durham in bright blue and yellow, Shildon this week are in all red with the now familiar white V.

After a cagey start there is a flurry of action on 10 minutes. Shildon’s Hughes finds space on the right and produces a dangerous cross; Durham’s Thompson responds with some trickery at the other end but his attempted back heeled pass is blocked; and Shildon’s usually reliable centre half Flynn unwisely dribbles out of defence, loses the ball but his team suffers no worse than a scuffed shot wide.

Shildon begin to look the more composed and after 15 minutes Lee Chapman picks up the ball on the right; using an overlapping run as a decoy he shifts the ball once, twice, left across the box before unleashing an unstoppable left foot drive high into the net.

One nil behind, Durham respond with vigour, but when the Shildon back line is turned any cross is capably dealt with. The Durham defence is less sure and are left all at sea by a short corner routine that creates space for a shot over the bar. They are beaten again when right back Hunter slots a gem of a pass through the defensive line for centre forward Greulich-Smith to run onto and place the ball calmly past keeper Winter to make it 2-0.

Again Durham make a positive response; Thompson comes close with a looping volley and centre forward Fenwick has a shot deflected for a corner. But the half ends with further attempts by Shildon; Briggs tries to catch Winter out with a quickly taken free kick, then from the opposite corner of the box Chapman curls his free kick attempt over the bar.

The 2-0 half time lead is just desserts for Shildon. Solid at the back, fluid up front and skilful in midfield, but they are not coasting as they have had to work hard to win their individual battles.

Durham are out early for the second half and attack from kick off, getting 5 minutes pressure before Shildon get going again. Twice Shildon have dangerous overlapping runs but crosses from Greulich-Smith and Hunter produce only blocked shots. Durham’s reply is an ambitious 35 yard free kick that is fielded by goalkeeper Finch.

By the hour mark Durham have made changes and now have full back Stoker up front with substitute Pounder. The latter immediately lives up to his name and pounds in a shot out of nothing from the edge of the box to make it 1-2. This is a boost for Durham who are now showing more urgency and belief.

Shildon, no longer looking in control, replace Clarkson who was prominent in the first half with McCabe; and when on 73 minutes full back Christensen breaks down the left and crosses, it is the sub who rises at the far post to head in firmly to restore the two goal lead.

Shildon now regain composure; Durham’s efforts since half time have taken their toll and they are visibly wilting in the heat. Shildon‘s other substitute Garvie however is fresh and is making good runs down either channel. One sees him through one on one with Winter, the Durham keeper, who stands firm and makes a great one handed save.

Durham’s hopes are fading, and when Pounder has to leave the field injured they have to see out the last few minutes with only 10 men. Shildon threaten to capitalise and right back Hunter shows great pace to storm down the right and put over a deep cross that Garvie does well to reach, but he is unable to control the volley. No matter as the game is safe and Shildon are able to see it out, worthy winners despite their wobble after half time.

The visit to New Ferens Park has been very pleasant with no issues with the plastic pitch that provides a natural bounce and true surface. Durham City now must look to the FA Vase for glory while Shildon, their early season momentum maintained, look good for couple of Cup rounds yet.

FA Vase First Qualifying Round 1 September 2012

BILLINGHAM TOWN V PICKERING TOWN

 

Both teams are out of the FA Cup early so the Vase is their remaining opportunity for a good cup run. A further incentive for victory is a home draw in the next two rounds (already made). But neither team has lit up their respective leagues so confidence cannot be high in either camp.

Bedford Terrace, tucked away between residential streets and the railway, is surprisingly spacious. The pitch is flat and green (courtesy of a fleeting relationship with Hartlepool FC that ended acrimoniously with the removal of the goalposts and the issue of a winding up order) and spectator facilities are good with two stands (one seated) and areas of two or three step terracing.

It is the first day of autumn, but it still feels like summer with the weather bright and breezy. Pickering, in all yellow, have the benefit of the breeze in the first half, which their goalkeeper uses to good effect hurling out throws of Olympic proportions. Billingham, in all blue, frequently have to turn, pursue and deal with long balls into the channels. Three Pickering corners come in quick succession, but a clear height advantage is not exploited as they are taken short or driven in low.

Billingham play a shorter game; in midfield Cronesberry and Butterworth are good on the ball and Craig Norman is finding space on the left wing. On 18 minutes Norman whips in a good cross to create consternation in the Pickering box, the ball pops invitingly to Matthew Garbutt who lashes in a good volley to make it 1-0 to Billingham.

Pickering respond with a shot on target, easily fielded by Arthur in goal; at the other end a Billingham effort is more troublesome and keeper Reid has to dive to push it round the post. The game is open, Billingham look in control despite playing into the wind and play the ball about nicely, but rarely threaten the goal.

Pickering are playing very narrow up front, and are running into two very determined centre backs. Centre forward Baxter holds up the ball well but has to play it backwards most of the time. Play makers Dalton and Craig are less flashy than the Billingham pair but are quietly effective, and just before the half hour it is Dalton who draws a foul just outside the Billingham penalty area. The free kick is a poor effort into the keeper’s hands. Five minutes later it is Craig who is brought down on the same spot, and this time Chris Gowan’s effort is much better, skimming the Billingham bar. When a third foul is committed two minutes later in the same place it is Liam Shepherd’s turn to have a crack, and this one is hit low and true into the corner of the net for an equaliser that did not seem likely from open play.

With the wind to follow in the second half Billingham would probably settle for playing out the remaining 10 minutes to half time at 1-1. However with a couple of minutes to go their offside trap fails, for once, and in attempting to recover the situation a penalty is conceded. Liam Salt confidently hammers the ball home to put Pickering 2-1 ahead.

Billingham start the second half well; Cronesberry’s fancy footwork draws a foul wide on the right and his left foot free kick curls viciously in the wind but beyond the far post. The same player, from the same wing, with the same foot, using the same wind almost converts direct from a corner, but it is headed off the back post by a Pickering defender. When it is Billingham’s turn to get a free kick outside the box centre forward Dunwell, who has been well looked after all game, hits a pile-driver past the wall only to see keeper Reid fingertip it onto the post and behind for a corner. Reid, again at full stretch, saves from Butterworth a few minutes later.

Pickering are doing little creatively, but have no need to as long as Billingham can’t break through. Billingham refresh the forward line, bringing on a couple of attacking substitutes, but the best this brings is an effort disallowed for offside.

As Billingham become increasingly desperate they become more vulnerable to Pickering breaks, and with seven minutes left the powerful Joe Connor strides forward and puts his considerable bulk into a 25 yard drive. Despite it being into the wind it is travelling at speed and keeper Arthur can only parry, allowing substitute Tom Fenwick to gleefully knock in the rebound for 3-1. This is hard on Billingham, but it could be even worse as Liam Shepherd, who started the Pickering comeback has a chance at the death to score another, but after manoeuvring the ball onto his left foot, he hits it high and wide.

So Pickering Town go on; they did not have to do too much to get through, just accept the opportunities presented by the injudicious tackling of the Billingham defence. Billingham Town’s run is over, unable to shut up shop at one nil and unable to convert pressure into goals once they went behind.

FA Cup Preliminary Qualifying Round Replay 28 August 2012

GUISBOROUGH TOWN V SHILDON

 

The first game ended 1-1; by all accounts Shildon dominated but after scoring an early penalty could only add to it with a late own goal!

The grandly named King George V Stadium is a small but neat and tidy ground with cover available along sections of each touchline, hopefully not needed tonight as early rain has cleared to give blue skies and the promise of a fine, moonlit evening. Red and white paintwork reflects Guisborough’s striped shirts, as the teams emerge to “The Boys Are Back In Town”. Shildon are in blue shirts with a rugby league style white V.

Shildon are clearly out to finish the job and take a firm grip on the game. Town are penned back in their own half; unable to find a pass forward they constantly work the ball back to the keeper to hoof hopefully up-field. This gives possession back to Shildon who busily probe down both flanks and twice have flashing shots across the goal.

Shildon’s Briggs is influential in midfield and his pass on 15 minutes puts Ben Wood through the inside left channel to slot in the opening goal under the advancing keeper. Five minutes later Shildon’s Danny Richmond ploughs the same inside left furrow and when his fierce shot is parried by keeper Escrit, Chris Hughes (ex Darlo favourite) puts away the rebound to make it 2-0.

Guisborough still can’t get into the game; their few attacks are broken up by the excellent Richard Flynn and the rest of the Shildon back four. In contrast the Gainsborough gap persists and the latest Shildon player to exploit it is Robert Clarkson. He gets as far as the penalty area before being felled. Ben Wood converts the spot kick for 3-0.

As half time approaches Guisborough are finally able to spend some time in the Shildon half and threaten once or twice, particularly via free kick which is headed narrowly wide. However the final telling action of the half is back at the other end: the skilful Greulich-Smith stumbles through a couple of challenges and forces a good save from Escrit. The resulting corner is played to the unmarked Danny Richmond at the corner of the box who executes a curling chip over the keeper and goal line defender into the far corner of the net. At 4-0 it should be game over, but Guisborough respond with a spirited spell before the whistle finally brings an eventful half to an end.

For the second half Guisborough bring on Lee Blythman to shore up the defence and Luke Blythman to ginger up the attack. The impact is palpable and their team have the best of the early exchanges. It is a pity they don’t have a third sibling for the midfield, where even a ten year old sister would have improved the first half performance.

Suddenly shots are raining in on the Shildon goal, but this just gives keeper Finch an opportunity to show his skill. Luke Blythman’s best chance comes 20 minutes into the half when he controls the ball well on the penalty spot, but is too deliberate in taking aim, allowing a last ditch block to deflect the ball over the bar. From the resulting corner Finch punches well and repeats the trick from the next cross in. However Shildon are weathering the storm and getting forward again. Greulich-Smith shoots well to produce a full stretch save from Escrit and then another attack threatens before being ended by a foul on Ben Wood. He picks himself up and slots his second penalty to complete his hat trick.

At 0-5 Guisborough are playing for pride and do deserve a goal for their second half efforts; but Finch and his defence want a clean sheet and stay tight. Not so their opposite numbers who allow Greulich-Smith too much space for someone of his quality. From outside the box he bends a great shot to the top corner to cap off Shildon’s night at 6-0.

Shildon look a very strong team and will not fear their trip to Durham City in the next round. Guisborough will now look to the FA Vase for their cup run, starting on Saturday with a more winnable tie with Crook Town.

 

FA Cup Preliminary Qualifying Round 25 August 2012

Due to severe emotional blackmail the planned attendance at Shildon v Guisborough Town was not possible. Fortunately the game ended 1-1 so a replay at Guisborough on Wednesday evening gives an opportunity to make amends and keep the FA Cup run going.

 

Elsewhere were exits for Norton & Stockton Ancients, Marske Utd, and Billingham Town. Also of note is another good result for Holker Old Boys, following up their replay win against Newton Aycliffe with a 4-4 draw at Crook Town.