The Railwaymen beaten at Salford

Shildon AFC travelled to Manchester on Saturday 18th July for their 3rd friendly and played Salford City from the Northern Premier League, Premier Division.

The club was bought in March 2014 by Singapore billionaire Peter Lim with 50% ownership and ex Manchester United players Phillip & Gary Neville, Nicky Butt, Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs all with 10% each.

A strong Salford side dominated the 1st half and then added two goals late on to wrap up a 3 – 0  victory.

They scored after 11 minutes when ex Trafford forward Sheldon Payne crashed a fifteen yard rising shot past Shildon keeper Keith Finch. After a great breakaway early goal Salford continued to try and breach the Railwaymen’s defence again, but it wasn’t easy as Daniel Moore and his men proved to be a formidable barrier.

Half Time:   Salford City  1  Shildon AFC  0

Shildon came more into the game early in the 2nd half but neither side were able to create any real threat.

With just fifteen minutes remaining Salford introduced four substitutes and the changes initiated a renewed spell of pressure on the Shildon goal.

With 10 minutes remaining a through ball found ex Chester player Gareth Seddon who lifted the ball over Shildon’s young substitute keeper Mark Hodgson for 2 – 0.

Shortly after Shildon’s keeper conceded a free kick just outside his area, but this time he was equal to Seddon’s effort, diving to his left to make a good save.

Near the end Salford made it 3 – 0 when Sam Madeley clipped the ball low into the net.

Final Score:  Salford City  3  Shildon AFC  0

A good workout, playing a team who are two leagues higher.  Shildon defended well but the best side won on the day.

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