Shildon vs Whitley Bay

Recap

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

Shildon’s Early Double Sinks Whitley Bay and Sends Them Top

Shildon climbed to the top of the table with a commanding win over fourth‑placed Whitley Bay, delivering a performance full of control, intensity and purpose.

They were in front inside eight minutes, Billy Greulich‑Smith rising to plant home a trademark header and set the tone for a dominant afternoon. The pressure didn’t ease, and the lead doubled on 22 minutes when Adam Lennox arrived at the far post to nod in Shildon’s second.

Wave after wave of attacks followed, with Shildon carving out chances and threatening to put the game out of sight before the interval. Whitley Bay were hanging on, grateful to reach half‑time only two goals down.

The pattern barely shifted after the restart. Shildon continued to dictate the tempo and create opportunities, but visiting goalkeeper Mauro Asikaogu produced a string of outstanding saves to keep the score respectable. At the other end, Sam Taylor enjoyed one of the quietest afternoons of his season, finishing the match without being forced into a single stop.

The final whistle confirmed a statement victory and, with it, Shildon’s rise to the league summit for the first time this campaign.

Attendance: 322