IRLAM FC WIN 5-4 ON PENALTIES

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

Penalty Heartbreak for Shildon After Spirited Fightback at Irlam

Shildon AFC bowed out of the cup in agonising fashion on Saturday afternoon, falling 5–4 in a penalty shootout after a pulsating 2–2 draw away at Irlam.

The Railwaymen were slow out of the blocks and paid the price early, conceding in the 7th minute when a deflected strike from the edge of the box wrong-footed keeper Sam Taylor and nestled into the bottom corner.

Despite the early setback, Shildon gradually found their rhythm, carving out a couple of promising chances before heading into the break trailing by a single goal.

The second half saw a transformed Shildon side take control, pinning the hosts back with slick passing and attacking intent. Their pressure paid off in the 57th minute when Alfie Marriott volleyed in his second goal for the club, sparking jubilant scenes among the travelling support.

Momentum stayed with the visitors, and just six minutes later, a flowing move involving Ciaran Banks and Ben Reay ended with Billy Greulich-Smith arriving at the near post to tap in and give Shildon a deserved lead.

At that point, the tie looked to be heading Shildon’s way, but Irlam refused to roll over. The match opened up into a frantic end-to-end contest, and the hosts clawed their way back with a crucial equaliser in the 80th minute.

There was still time for late drama, as Leighton Harris found himself with a golden chance to win it in stoppage time, only to blaze over from close range.

With no extra time in this round, the match went straight to penalties. Sam Taylor gave Shildon early hope with a save from Irlam’s first spot-kick, but misses from Jon Weirs and Max Allen proved costly as the hosts edged the shootout 5–4.

ATTENDANCE: 165