The Emirates FA Cup – Preliminary Round

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

Substitute Reay Seals FA Cup Derby Win for Shildon

Shildon AFC booked their place in the First Qualifying Round of the FA Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 away derby victory over West Auckland Town FC. The preliminary round tie was ultimately decided by a second-half strike, ensuring the visitors claimed the local bragging rights alongside their cup progression.

Shildon enjoyed the better of the general play throughout the opening forty-five minutes. However, it was the home side who managed to carve out the clearest opportunity of the half. West Auckland’s Hermenegildo Silva Fancung Viume broke clear through the defensive line, but Shildon goalkeeper Andy Jennison was quick to react, producing a crucial save to maintain the deadlock going into the break.

The visitors maintained their offensive pressure following the restart. Their persistence finally paid off in the 71st minute. Substitute Ben Reay provided the decisive finish at the end of a well-worked passing move to put Shildon ahead. Falling behind forced West Auckland to commit more players forward in search of an equalizer. This tactical shift left space at the back, allowing Shildon to look highly threatening on the counter-attack. The visitors created numerous late chances on the break to extend their lead but were unable to add to their tally.

A solid all-around performance ensured the single goal was enough to secure the win and the clean sheet. Shildon will now look ahead to the next stage of the competition, where they will host Warrington Town in the First Qualifying Round at the J Denham Metals Stadium at Dean Street.

Attendance: 261