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

Shildon Sweep Aside Blyth to Reach FA Cup Preliminary Round

Shildon booked their place in the FA Cup preliminary round with a commanding 4–1 win over Blyth Town at Dean Street.

The Railwaymen were out of the blocks quickly and took a seventh‑minute lead, Jon Weirs latching onto a loose ball on the edge of the box and drilling low beyond the keeper. The pressure kept coming, and Shildon doubled their advantage on 28 minutes when Ben Reay reacted quickest to a scramble in the six‑yard area, poking home from close range.

Five minutes later it was three. Jack Blackford burst through the Blyth back line, spotted the goalkeeper advancing, and coolly lifted the ball over him to cap a superb first‑half display. Shildon went in at the break three goals to the good and firmly in control.

The second half proved more even, with Blyth tightening up and Shildon forced to be patient. Their reward finally arrived eight minutes from time when substitute Alfie Steel raced clear and slotted home for 4–0. Blyth grabbed a consolation in the 88th minute, Adam Johnson finishing a neat move to reduce the deficit.

Shildon now await confirmation of their opponents in the next round, with West Auckland and Yarm & Eaglescliffe set for a replay on Tuesday night.

Attendance:  210