Shildon vs Birtley Town

Recap

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

Shildon Hit Five in Second-Half Blitz to Sink Birtley Town 

Shildon produced a ruthless second-half display to sweep past Birtley Town and book their place in the next round against Witton Albion FC

Despite dominating the first half, Shildon were repeatedly denied by Birtley’s teenage goalkeeper Max Campbell, who carried his fine form from Saturday’s clash into the replay. The young shot-stopper pulled off a string of impressive saves to keep the Railwaymen at bay, ensuring the sides went in level at the break.

The deadlock was finally broken in the 57th minute when Andrei Ardelean reacted quickest to a loose ball in the box, slotting home to give Shildon a deserved lead. But the advantage was short-lived — just two minutes later, a misjudged clearance from Ciaran Banks saw the ball sliced into his own net, handing Birtley a lifeline.

What followed was a devastating 12-minute spell that blew the visitors away. Defender Gary Brown scored from close range, before Luke Spalding, Jon Weirs, and Ben Reay each found the net in quick succession, turning a tense affair into a commanding 5–1 lead.

Shildon continued to press and could have added more, but it was Birtley who had the final say — Alex Francis netting a late consolation in the 90th minute.

It was a performance full of attacking intent and resilience from Shildon, who now turn their attention to the FA Vase and a fixture against Durham United FC.

Attendance: 192