Shildon AFC vs Warrington Town FC

Recap

MATCH REPORT BY WILF TRAY _{(edited by Michael Wilson)}

Shildon Earn FA Cup Replay After Spirited Draw with Higher-Tier Warrington

Shildon AFC earned a well-deserved 2-2 draw against Northern Premier League side Warrington Town in an entertaining Emirates FA Cup First Qualifying Round tie at the J Denham Metals Stadium. Playing against opposition from two divisions above, the Railwaymen delivered a resilient performance in front of a crowd of 278 at Dean Street, ensuring the tie will be decided in a mid-week replay.

The hosts started brightly and controlled the opening exchanges, but the visitors were handed a prime opportunity to take the lead when Leighton Harris brought down Zayn Sadiq inside the penalty area. Goalkeeper Andy Jennison came to Shildon’s rescue, diving to turn Reece Daly’s spot-kick around the post. Ten minutes later, Warrington were awarded a second penalty after Ewan Bange was fouled in the box. Daly stepped up again, and this time made no mistake, converting from twelve yards to put the visitors ahead. Shildon responded well to the setback and equalised shortly before the interval when Billy Greulich-Smith rose highest to head home Joe Posthill’s corner.

Shildon carried their momentum into the second half and took the lead in the 54th minute. Following a scramble in the Warrington goalmouth, Jon Weirs reacted quickest to blast the ball into the net. The hosts created opportunities to extend their advantage but were unable to add a third. Warrington capitalised on 76 minutes when David Morgan chipped the ball over Jennison to restore parity.

Both teams pushed for a late winner in a end-to-end finish, but neither side could find a decisive goal before the final whistle.

The two sides will meet again on Tuesday night at Cantilever Park to settle the tie and determine who advances to the Second Qualifying Round.

Attendance: 278