Shildon vs Ashington AFC

Recap

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

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Despite fielding a significantly depleted squad due to injuries and unavailability, Shildon AFC produced a spirited and professional performance to overcome higher-ranked visitors Ashington in emphatic fashion.

The Railwaymen started brightly, applying early pressure and forcing Ashington onto the back foot. Clear chances soon followed, with Andrei Ardelean rattling the crossbar in what was the first of several promising openings. Shildon’s perseverance was rewarded on 21 minutes when Jon Weirs capped off a fluid attacking move by firing clinically into the bottom corner from the edge of the area. The same player nearly doubled the lead shortly after, but the Ashington goalkeeper pulled off a strong one-on-one save.

Luke Spalding also went close before the break, cutting in from the wing and bending a well-struck effort just wide of the far post. The hosts took a deserved 1–0 advantage into half time.

Ashington looked to respond after the interval but rarely tested debutant goalkeeper Mathew Wheeler, who was assured throughout. Shildon extended their lead on 69 minutes when Andrei Ardelean thundered a strike into the roof of the net. Just three minutes later, Spalding added a third with a composed finish after racing clear of the defence.

Further chances followed — Ashton Houlahan drew another fine save and Ciaran Banks struck the crossbar from 30 yards with a dipping free kick. The visitors snatched a late consolation from the penalty spot with their only effort on target, denying Shildon a clean sheet in the closing moments.

Nonetheless, it was a fully deserved 3–1 victory for Shildon, whose resilience and attacking flair now see them progress to face Birtley Town in the next round.

Attendance: 138