FA Cup First Round Dream Ended on Tyneside

There is an old saying in football that goes the league table doesn't lie, and when the draw was made South Shields away was really not ideal- top of National league North undefeated and  only 4 goals conceded.

A huge game for the club and a big day out for the supporters, coach, car or train we made our way north on a very sunny autumn Saturday. No one can question the warm welcome on arriving at the ground, reduced admission prices meant a big crowd was expected, beers in the clubroom banter with the locals us Tulips was buzzing for this one. All that changed within 19 minutes, James Dadge the young keeper on loan from Northampton will have sleepless nights on his first half performance, Shields were quick out of the blocks as expected, their pass and move game was always going to be a big test for Jimmy's back line, but as many supporters was quick to realise we was far to open two blocks of four maybe would have been a better option. Only 7 minutes in the deadlock was broken Paul Blackett overhead kick somehow squirmed under Dadge, giving the ball away and not fighting to get it back led to the second on 15 minutes Caden Kelly unmarked got into the box and his shot this time went under Dadge, four minutes later the game was over as a contest Blackett again who was to good for Connor Johnson skipped passed the defender and shot straight at Dadge who again failed to make the save. The young keeper did prevent Blackett from a first half hat trick, again the striker easily beat Johnson but this time his shot was saved by the feet of Dadge.

Strong words at half time but no changes made….47 minutes and its 4-0 this time Blackett turns provider and Cedwyn Scott arrived at the far post to smash the chance home. All we could hope for was a consolation goal and when Bendle's free kick was met by Johnson the young 20 year old South Shields keeper Jasper Sheik showed goal keeping class with a wonder save.

So the wait goes on….1964/65 was the last time we made round one and a kinder draw may have given us a better chance this season, as we made our way out at full time anyone facing South Shields next time will have their work cut out. As for us Tuesday night we head south to play Bishops Stortford in a league fixture a quick turn around and hopefully a better performance and positive result….