Under 13 Juniors

				Back to Fixtures			League Tables
Game	Date	K/O	Venue	Opposition	F	A	Scorers
LGE	09/09/11	-	AWAY	WALLSEND BC	1	6	HEWITSON
LGE	11/09/11	-	AWAY	MONTAGU BLUESOX	3	1	WEBSTER, STUDHOLME & McMAHON
"	13/09/11	-	HOME	MONTAGU BLUESOX	3	0	WEBSTER(2) & SELBY
"	18/09/11	10.30	HOME	COAST SOCCER	4	1	WEBSTER(2), HEWITSON & EMMERSON
"	25/09/11	-	AWAY	BEAMISH RAIDERS	7	4	BARLOW(3), WEBSTER(2) & HEWITSON(2)
"	02/10/11	-	HOME	WIDEOPEN JUNIORS	3	3	STUDHOLME, WEBSTER & HEWITSON
DIV CUP	09/10/11	10.30	HOME	NORTH SHIELDS JUN WANDERERS	11	1	STUDHOLME(3), HEWITSON(3), WEBSTER(2), D.BARLOW G.BARLOW & LATIMER
TES CUP	16/10/11	-	HOME	MONTAGU BLUESOX	7	0	HEWITSON(2), McMAHON(2), D.BARLOW, McPHERSON & EMMERSON
SHIELD	23/10/11	-	HOME	THROCKLEY MAGPIES	P	P	-
LGE	30/10/11	-	AWAY	CRAMLINGTON JUNIORS	1	3	HEWITSON
"	06/11/11	-	HOME	WANSBECK JUNIORS	5	1	STUDHOLME(3), WEBSTER & SELBY
CUP	20/11/11	-	HOME	ASHINGTON CFC	17	0	WEBSTER(5), HEWITSON(3), LATIMER(2), McPHERSON(2) EMMERSON, SELBY, G. BARLOW, D. BARLOW & OG
SHIELD	27/11/11	-	HOME	NORTH SHIELDS ATHLETIC	4	1	WEBSTER(2), McPHERSON & OG
LGE	04/12/11	-	HOME	NEWCASTLE CITY MILAN	2	0	D. BARLOW & OG
CUP	11/12/11	-	AWAY	NEWCASTLE EAST ENDS WHITES	3	1	STUDHOLME, HEWITSON(PEN) & D. BARLOW
"	08/01/12	-	AWAY	HEXHAM JUNIIORS	9	0	McPHERSON(2), HEWITSON(2), STUDHOLME(2), McMAHON D. BARLOW & WEBSTER
"	15/01/12	-	HOME	COAST SOCCER	4	1	HEWITSON(2) D.BARLOW & STUDHOLME
"	22/01/12	-	AWAY	WALKER CENTRAL	-	-	-

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MATCH REPORTS

NABC League Division 1
Sunday 4 December 11
North Shields Juniors 2     Newcastle City Milan 0

Own goal, D. Barlow

Newcastle City provided the opposition on a cold breezy December morning at John Spence for a game which promised to be a very stern test for Shields. A difficult job was made even more tricky with the withdrawal of keeper Joe Thompson due to illness, with Callum Hewitson donning the keepers shirt for the game.

City kicked the game off and early exchanges suggested that the game was going to be a tough midfield battle. The first attack saw Brandon Studholme release Tom Webster down the right but his progress was halted by the pacey centre half who conceded a corner. The resulting kick swung in by Josh Emmerson and cleared.

At the other end George Barlow was called into action clearing well from the dangerous yellows striker. A pattern was developing with midfield dominant, with Danny Barlow, Lee Latimer, Josh Emmerson and Ben Smith tackling manfully and in defence the two Andys, McMahon and McPherson, Luke Owston and George Barlow protecting stand in keeper Hewitson. Up front, Study, Webster and Matt ‘Masha’ Selby were getting little change from the big uncompromising City defence.

The deadlock was eventually broken when good work between Danny and Masha won a corner from the left. The ball was swung in and found its way to Study at the right hand edge of the box. His shot on goal was turned into his own net by the unlucky Newcastle defender with Webster waiting just behind. 1-0 to the Reds.

The Yellows struck back and following a good build up a shot was fired in from the edge of the box which struck the post, with the follow up well saved by Hewitson. Callum then cleared to Danny who released Masha, whose jinking run into the box ended with a shot into the side netting.

Another moment of City danger saw their forward turn and shoot goalwards for Hewitson to make another fine save, then the danger being cleared by a combination of Owston and McMahon. On the stroke of half time Owston made a superb goal line clearance to ensure the Reds went into the break with a one goal advantage.

The Reds started the second half and the first chance fell to City with a shot from distance going wide. At the other end Danny Barlow sent a brilliant ball through for Study who was denied by a strong defensive clearance. A similar pattern to the first half was beginning to emerge with both defences dominant. The lively City forward getting no change from Owston and George Barlow in the middle with Mikey Chambers and McMahon giving nothing away on the flanks.

The vital second goal arrived midway through the half much to the relief of the home support. A free kick was awarded to the Reds wide on the left, just inside the visitors half. Danny Barlow swung the ball high and goalwards and both defence and keeper looked at each other to deal with it, neither did and one bounce and it was in the back of the net. 2-0 now and breathing space.

The game tightened even further with goal chances few and far between. Hewitson was rarely troubled and at the other end Study went close following a super pass by Emmerson.

The final whistle sounded with Shields running out deserved victors by two goals to nil.  A superb performance all round built on a rock solid defence and midfield display.

 

Man of the Match: Callum Hewitson  Managers’ Man of the Match: Matt Selby

Solid goalkeeping overall by sub keeper Callum and a couple of good saves saw him pick up the MOM award. He served the team very well in an unfamiliar position, really well done! Matt was in terrific form today as he gave the City right back a really torrid time with his speed and quick feet, a cracking display!

City were very strong as usual but we really matched them for work rate and passed it well in the cold and wind. A great work ethic all over the pitch and some excellent defending by our back four kept them out - even when they changed it second half it didn't result in any clear chances. A hard earned and deserved win especially with two influential players out of the normal line up – a great effort lads!

League Shield Round 2
Sunday 27 November 11
North Shields Juniors 4    North Shields Athletic 1
Webster 2, McPherson, own goal

Gale force winds swept across John Spence field, in the 2nd round Challenge Shield encounter between Shields Juniors and Athletic teams, making it very difficult for both teams to play good football.
The Reds kicked off and immediately mounted their first attack with Callum Hewitson firing wide following good work by Andy McPherson and Study, then Study himself being denied by a last ditch defensive clearance. Hewitson again went close after picking the ball up in midfield, he strode past a number of Whites challenges then saw his effort go agonisingly the wrong side of the post. More Reds pressure resulted in a corner which was cleared by the Whites defence, and defence quickly turned into attack which was expertly dealt with by the combined efforts of George Barlow and Luke Owston.
The deadlock was eventually broken, when a fine move between Danny Barlow and Hewitson saw Andy Mac released in space at the edge of the box. He bore down on goal and fired the ball in to the bottom corner. 1-0 to the Reds. Far from lying down, Athletic launched an attack of their own which was halted by a foul in a dangerous area at the edge of the Reds box. The first strike was blocked by the wall and the follow up sailed wide.
At the other end the Whites defence was being kept busy down both flanks with the combined efforts of Lee and Andy Mac down the left and Andy McMahon, Matthew Selby and Josh Emmerson posing problems down the right.
Joe Thompson in the Red goal was called on to make a fine save following some good Athletic play. The warning signs were not heeded as from the next attack Athletic broke down the left and the cross was turned home by the Whites forward, leveling the scores at 1-1.
From the restart good play by Lee Latimer and McPherson released Study and his effort was well saved by Joel Stoneman. At the other end Joe pulled off a superb save from a great free kick by ex-Red Colyn. With half time approaching, Dan sent a dangerous ball over the top for Study and his progress was halted by a foul challenge. The referee pointed to the spot for a penalty to the Reds. Hewitson stepped and saw his well struck kick brilliantly saved by Joel Stoneman with the follow up going wide.
Half time arrived with the scores tied at 1-1
The Whites kicked the second half off and were immediately on the back foot with Tom Webster breaking down the right and seeing his effort cleared. Down the other flank Masha Selby outpaced the Athletic defence and saw his cross into the wind cleared, then the same player turned a cross from Hewitson towards goal only to see it come back off the bar. Dan then had a shot well saved. The pressure finally told when Webster raced on to a fine pass by Emmerson and saw his cross turned past his own keeper by the luckless Whites centre half to give the Reds a 2-1 advantage.
George then won the ball in his own half and made a trademark surge forward eluding a number of challenges, then sending Webster clear. His effort was well saved by Stoneman. Masha then broke dangerously down the left and sent in a lovely cross which was turned home by Webster. 3-1 quickly became 4-1 when Webster again finished well following a great ball by Latimer.
More Reds pressure saw Webster head a Danny Barlow corner towards goal, for it to be cleared off the line, then Study went close breaking on to a through ball by Emmerson and seeing his shot go wide.
The Whites were finding it difficult to get out of their own half and Joe in the Reds goal was rarely troubled due to expert defending by Owston, George Barlow, Andy Mac and Hewitson.
Masha again showed great pace and skill sailing past a number of challenges and crossing for Study whose effort came back off the post.
The final whistle sounded with the Reds running out 4-1 winners.

Man of the Match: Matt Selby   Managers’ Man of the Match: Lee Latimer
Matt was excellent today, showing both pace and great skill to give the Athletic defence a hard time. Lee was also on top form in the midfield as he stayed very strong and used the ball well when in possession – well played lads!

Athletic played well and closed us down first half but we passed it well in very windy conditions. Had chances but didn't put them away and also a great penalty save from Joel in the Athletic goal. Second half we at last began to put away the opportunities to seal the game. Could and should have had more goals if the final ball and finishing had been better.

All in all, a good game played in good spirit which bodes very well for the club.

Tesco Cup Round 3
Sunday 20 November 11
North Shields Juniors 17    Ashington CFC 0
Webster 5, Hewitson 3,
Latimer 2, McPherson 2,
Emmerson, Selby, G. Barlow,
D. Barlow, own goal

Third division side Ashington CFC were the visitors to John Spence in the third round of the Tesco Cup with the winners facing a quarter final trip to Hexham Juniors. Despite being two divisions below Shields, nothing could be taken for granted, particularly as Shields were down to the bare twelve with Ben Smith and Mikey Chambers being cup tied.

The visitors kicked the game off and were immediately put under pressure by the Reds with Josh Emmerson crossing in dangerously from the right then Matthew ‘Masha’ Selby repeating the feat from the left following good work by Andy McPherson and Callum Hewitson.

The first goal soon arrived. From a right wing corner the ball flashed across goal arriving at Masha’s feet. He passed to Andy Mac who fed Hewitson and his surging run in to the box ended with a fine shot which nestled in the bottom corner. Another fine move starting with Luke Owston and George Barlow at the back ended with Brandon ‘Study’ Studholme finding Tom Webster who shot wide. The second goal arrived following good work from Study and Masha presenting Hewitson with the opportunity to stroll pass the visiting defence and fire home from the edge of the box. 2-0 quickly became 3-0 when a fine move involving Andy Mac, Emmerson and Study ended with a right wing corner. From the resulting kick Lee Latimer rose and headed the ball home. Masha then added his name to the score sheet taking a pass from McPherson, surging in to the box and firing home. The Reds were well on top now and Emmerson sent in a dangerous cross from the right which squirmed past the visiting keeper and nestled in the net. 5-0 now.

A sixth followed when Study chased down a long through ball and sent the ball in to the danger area only for the luckless away defender to turn the ball into his own goal. Dan Barlow then presented Webster with the ball in the box and he fired home for the Reds seventh. The same players combined again and Webster lobbed the ball over the advancing keeper for his second and Shields` eighth. The half time whistle blew with Shields comfortably ahead.

The second half got under way with Shields picking up where they left the first half with first Hewitson then Danny firing just wide. Hewitson then sent Webster clear and he rounded the keeper and slotted the ball home, completing his hat trick and Shields` ninth. Double figures were reached when Andy McMahon won the ball and passed to George Barlow. He made a surging run forward and smashed an unstoppable shot from all of thirty yards into the top corner. Webster then scored his fourth and the Reds eleventh turning the ball home following the keeper parrying Masha’s shot.

Shields were playing some great football and a fine move starting at the back by Owston ended with Hewitson finding Latimer who fired home from wide on the left. 12-0 quickly became 13-0 with Webster heading home from a corner. Dan Barlow then got on the score sheet, exchanging passes with Webster and firing the ball home.
Andy Mac got his name on the score sheet scoring the Reds` fifteenth, steering the ball home having played a one two with Webster. Andy quickly scored his second and Shields sixteenth firing the ball home after the visiting keeper could only push out Webster‘s shot.

Hewitson then completed his hat trick, picking the ball up in midfield he showed great skill shrugging off a series of Ashington challenges and smashing the ball home. Joe Thompson was only called in to action late on saving comfortably from a long range free kick.

The game finished with Shields ending up victors by 17-0. A very comfortable win which saw a relentless performance by the home side with some super football played and some fine goals scored.

Man of the Match: Callum Hewitson   Managers’ Man of the Match: Callum Hewitson
Callum picked up both awards today for a busy and dominant midfield showing which also notched him a deserved hat trick – cracking stuff, well done the big lad!

A good display all round as the lads didn't get greedy for the majority of the match. We dominated Ashington throughout the game as they rarely got out of their own half and when they did they were quickly snuffed out. The lads were told to pass the ball around and the chances would come and that is what happened. Ashington never give up right to the end so huge credit to them.

 

NABC League Division 1
Sunday 6 November 11
North Shields Juniors 5     Wansbeck Juniors 1
Studholme 3, Webster, Selby

Wansbeck were the visitors to Collingwood on a beautiful sunny November morning. The Shields side welcomed new recruits Ben Smith and Mikey Chambers following their recent switch from neighbours Coast Soccer.
The Blues kicked the game off and immediately sent a long ball in to the heart of the home defence which was comfortably dealt with by George Barlow. The Reds settled in to the game and their first moment of danger arrived when Callum Hewitson swept a long free kick in from the right which just eluded the head of Lee Latimer at the back post. Straight away Wansbeck launched their own attack down the right stopped by a great tackle by Luke Owston.
Shields were starting to play some good football and Brandon Studholme went close following fine play from Andy McPherson, Tom Webster and Danny Barlow. The opening goal arrived when Andy Mac won the ball and found Hewitson whose pass found Danny. He played a lovely weighted pass over the top for Study to swoop and fire past the visiting keeper. 1-0 to the Reds.
Wansbeck responded well with a shot from distance being deflected wide, From the corner the ball broke free to the edge of the box and a tremendous shot was brilliantly saved by Joe Thompson.
Shields immediately went on the attack, and good skill by Josh Emmerson saw him find Hewitson, who moved forward and sent in a trademark pile driver which was well saved by the keeper. Webster was the first to respond to the loose ball and fired home to give Shields a two goal advantage. At this stage Shields were well on top and Study saw a fine effort well saved and Webster seeing his shot strike the foot of the post following a great Emmerson cross.
With all the Shields pressure the inevitable happened.... the Blues broke free of the shackles imposed and a ball sent forward down the left channel saw a Wansbeck forward outpace the Reds defence and although Joe got his hands to the shot, the ball trickled agonisingly over the line. 2-1.
This inspired Shields and another fine move involving Andy Mac, Webster, Latimer and Andy McMahon provided Study with the opportunity to rifle home his second and Shields` third. Hewitson then sent in another effort from distance after a good passing move.
Chambers then won the ball in defence and found McPherson, who moved the ball to Study. He exchanged passes with Webster and fired the ball home to complete his hat trick and the Reds fourth. Wansbeck mounted another attack and good play resulted in a corner The resultant kick was cleared to Webster in his own half and he surged forward and bearing down on goal passed to Study whose effort was denied by an offside flag. The half ended with Shields holding a 4-1 advantage.
Shields started the second half with Webster breaking forward and seeing his shot go wide, then McPherson seeing his shot from distance well saved. Danny then sent a super ball to Chambers and his dangerous cross was scrambled clear. Hewitson then went close with long range free kick which went just wide.
At the other end the Blues attacking threat was comfortably dealt with by the back four of Smith, George Barlow, Owston and Chambers while Study went close to his fourth, just being denied by a clearance from the visiting keeper. Another tempting cross was fired to the back post by Danny which just eluded everyone.
Andy Mac then sent a fine ball for Masha Selby who saw his effort well saved. The visiting keeper in his effort to restart the game threw the ball straight back to Masha who gratefully turned the ball home for Shields fifth.
The Blues responded well and Joe was called on to make two good saves first from a right wing cross then from a free kick. The final chance fell to Webster who could not get his head to Danny Barlow’s tempting cross seeing the ball end up in the keeper’s hands.
The game finished with Shields running out worthy 5-1 winners. Overall a good performance getting back to winning ways following the previous weeks reversal at Cramlington.

Man of the Match: Joe Thompson   Managers’ Man of the Match: Brandon Studholme
A usual solid performance from Joe, a safe pair of hands, some great saves and quick off his line to snuff out any danger. Study put in a really busy showing causing the Wansbeck defence all kinds of problems and was rewarded with a deserved hat trick.

A fairly even start as Wansbeck just looked to play the long ball. We then scored 4 excellent goals and played some great football but got caught on the break. Second half not so good as we relaxed and Wansbeck upped their game and started to play while we didn't get anywhere near the quality of the first half.

NABC League Division 1
Sunday 30 October 11
Cramlington Juniors 3   North Shields Juniors 1
                       Hewitson

A lovely sunny Sunday morning greeted all for Shields tough away trip to Cramlington who would no doubt be still smarting for the Churchill Tournament final defeat. Shields came into the game with only a squad of 12 including a half fit Andy McPherson so a massive effort was required from the whole team.

Cramlington kicked the game off playing uphill and in to the light breeze and immediately put pressure on the Shields defence with some slick passing. The Reds defence maintained its shape and dealt comfortably with the early pressure and provided a platform for Shields to mount their first attack of their own. Andy McMahon and Matthew Selby linked well and switched to Callum Hewitson on the left flank. His strike flew just wide of the mark.

Shields were now getting much more into the game and were playing some great expansive football across the whole of the park with some tenacious tackling when not in possession. The efforts were soon rewarded with Lee Latimer, Dan Barlow and Andy McPherson linking well resulting in a throw to the Reds on the left wing. A quick throw found Hewitson surging forward, and his superb strike from all of 30 yards sailed in to the top corner. 1-0 to the Reds and the collective tails were up.

McMahon won a fine tackle at right back and passed to Tom Webster who found Study and his shot was saved. Crammy mounted an attack of their own and saw a shot from distance going wide of the mark. Hewitson again made a surging run forward, riding a number of tackles then seeing his shot fly just wide. A further home attack was comfortably dealt with and Luke Owston’s clearance sent Webster away down the right. From the resulting corner Masha found Dan Barlow whose shot went the wrong side of the post.

More Cramlington attacking was comfortably dealt with by the outstanding back line of Lee Latimer, McMahon, George Barlow and Owston ably backed by Joe Thompson between the sticks. Latimer then produced another great tackle finding Dan Barlow. He exchanged passes with McPherson then found Study but his shot was well saved. Joe was then called on to make a brilliant save showing great bravery at the feet of the onrushing attacker with the follow up clipping the top of the bar. Half time arrived with a deserved 1-0 advantage to the visitors.

The Reds kicked the second half off playing uphill and found themselves on the back foot with wave after wave of home attacks as Crammy brought on 4 pairs of fresh legs. With George Barlow putting in some superb blocks, McMahon and Latimer showing great tenacity at full back and Owston defending with his customary cool authority the goal remained intact. At the other end Josh Emmerson won the ball in midfield releasing Hewitson whose pass found Andy Mac who shot just wide.

With less than 20 minutes to go, more Crammy pressure resulted in an equaliser. Following a fine move down the right the ball fell to the home team forward whose strike gave Joe no chance. 1-1 and a danger that Shields would be overrun.

Far from lying down Shields moved up a gear and started playing some more great football. Andy Mac won the ball and passed to Study. His through ball was chased down by Webster who pushed the ball past the keeper and was then taken down by the same player. Amazingly, play was waved on and Cramlington moved swiftly to the other end where great defending by George and Owston cleared the danger. More home attacking saw Joe to pull off a superb save at full stretch. Another Shields attack saw Danny brilliantly control a ball over the top and bear down on goal only to be incorrectly denied by an offside decision.

As time wore on tired legs became evident and the away team's defence failed to clear properly after some cool defensive play which gave the right winger the opportunity and he made no mistake from close range. 2-1 to Cramlington soon became 3-1 when defence was quickly turned into attack and a swift break down the left was not cleared when the opportunity arose and finished with the ball being bundled over the line. A fourth nearly arrived when the nippy hoops attacker beat Joe only to see Owston make a brilliant clearance off the Reds line.

Shields again didn't lie down and another break down the right saw Webster surge into the box and cross for Selby whose effort was well saved. The final whistle sounded with Cramlington running out 3-1 winners. All in all, a fine team performance by the depleted Shields squad who left with a feeling of what might have been...

 

Man of the Match: Danny Barlow   Managers’ Man of the Match: Luke Owston
Composed performances from both lads today as Danny’s quick feet and passing ability helped ensure both he and Callum dictated play in the centre midfield in the first half. Luke was always cool in possession and seldom wasted a ball whilst making sure he got some timely tackles and blocks. Well done fellas!

A game of 2 halves on a heavy pitch with a slope as we played much the better football first half to go in 1-0 up at HT. Second half they had the slope plus the advantage of 4 pairs of fresh legs as they changed it round. We couldn't do this with only 11 fit players and one coming back from illness and it told in the end, as with less than 20 mins left the lads couldn't hold out. Having said that, we didn't keep the ball as well as we did in the first half which invited pressure.

Perhaps if a former Crammy senior coach hadn’t been refereeing the game we would have had the blatant penalty for the keeper’s foul on Tom, and then who knows how it may have panned out.

Hard lines lads - we deserved something from the overall performance.

Tesco NFA County Cup Round 2
Sunday 16 October 11
North Shields Juniors 7     Montagu BC Bluesox 0
Hewitson 2 McMahon 2, Barlow,
McPherson, Emmerson

The third instalment of Shields v Monty Bluesox was played at John Spence on a bright Autumnal Sunday afternoon in the first round of the Tesco Cup.

The Reds kicked the game off and were immediately on the front foot with James Lamb and Josh Emmerson linking down the right and winning a throw. From the restart Brandon ‘Study’ Studholme found Tom Webster at the edge of the box and he fed the ball into the path of Callum Hewitson whose bullet strike sailed in to the top corner. 1-0 with only a minute on the clock.

More Shields pressure followed with some fine passing and movement across the whole pitch. Monty’s first attack saw their pacy right winger send in a dangerous cross from the right which the onrushing attacker fired straight at Joe Thompson in the Reds goal. The ball shifted to the other end of the pitch with Dan Barlow and Lamby linking well for Emmerson to see his effort cleared.

The second arrived and was a culmination of some great play. The ball was won in defence and Andy McPherson sent the ball down the left to Webster who held the ball up well. Passes were then exchanged between Lee Latimer and Hewitson and the ball found its way to Dan Barlow who smashed in a trademark pile driver into the top corner from the edge of the box. The yellows didn’t lie down and mounted some pressure of their own, but cool defending by Luke Owston and George Barlow ensured Joe’s goal remained intact.

More great football followed with Lamby and Emmerson interchanging passes and sending Study clear who saw his effort cleared. The same three combined again with Emmerson releasing Lamby and his cross was headed towards goal by Study. From the resulting corner Emmerson won the ball for Tom to see his effort squirm wide. Andy Mac then played a great ball down the line for Lee who whose skill and tenacity saw him beat his opposing defender then returning to Andy Mac who surged forward and sent in a tremendous shot giving the keeper no chance. 3-0 soon became 4-0 when Emmerson broke down the right following good play by Andy Macmahon and Danny, and saw his cross/shot unable to be stopped by the luckless defender almost on the line. Half time arrived with the home side deservedly ahead by 4 goals to nil.

Yellows kicked the second half off and were on the back foot straight away with Tom feeding Emmerson who was denied by some good defending. Andy McMahon then produced a superb tackle to prevent danger then Study was denied a goal following a long Joe clearance.

The Reds increased the tempo with Macpherson finding Masher down the left and his pass found Dan Barlow whose effort was cleared for a corner. From the kick the ball was cleared to the edge of the box where MacPherson fired a tremendous shot which struck the cross bar. The Reds’ midfielders were now dominant with Barlow and Hewitson in particular calling the shots. Andy Mac again found space and sent a lovely pass to Study whose shot was well saved. Study again went close following great work by Masha.

The fifth goal eventually arrived when the ball was sent in to the Monty box where McMahon latched on to the loose ball and fired home. Another super move soon followed. Lamby won the ball and found Dan who squared to Andy Mac. His shot from distance again crashed against the bar and was turned home by McMahon to complete his brace.

Hewitson then picked the ball up, surged forward and fired just wide. This proved to be a mere sighter as he once again moved forward and this time his shot was unstoppable as it struck the inside of the post and nestled in the back of the net. 7-0 and there followed the unusual spectacle of the away keeper then being told to leave the pitch and the ground by his mother, much to the amazement of all the spectators.

The final whistle blew with Shields running out 7-0 victors and progressing comfortably through to the next round of the cup. Despite the scoreline Monty as always were strong opponents and provided a tough test.

Man of the Match: Callum Hewitson   Managers’ Man of the Match: Andy McPherson
Callum held the midfield well, both going forward and protecting his defence and scored a couple of cracking goals to cap it off. Andy had another outstanding game, cool at the back closing down chances and creating opportunities down the wing for his own team and scoring into the bargain. Magic stuff both lads.

Very good performance, especially first half, 2-0 up after 5 mins to pair of left foot rockets from Callum and Dan. Passed it well and closed them down quickly - a good well earned clean sheet!

 

NFA East Divisional Cup Round 1
Sunday 9 October 11
North Shields Juniors 11   North Shields Wanderers 1
Studholme 3, Hewitson 3,
Webster 2, D Barlow, G Barlow, Latimer

The first round of the defence of their Divisional Cup pitched Shields against the Wanderers who arrived at John Spence with the bare eleven players. It was a breezy clear Sunday morning but unfortunately the ref somehow didn’t find his way to the ground so James Lamb’s dad Steve stepped into the breach and donned the whistle. Both teams normally play in red so the Juniors donned their away (training) strips of all black.

The Blacks kicked off and moved straight on the attack, with good early play winning a corner, which was swung in producing the first of many great saves by the Wanderers keeper Steve Scotland. Josh Emmerson then linked with Callum Hewitson and saw his shot go just wide.

The superb first goal arrived after a fantastic passing move which must have been at least 20 passes as the lads started from the back passing it patiently around the pitch until the opportunity arose to switch the ball to Lamby who pushed forward down the right and swung in a fine cross which Brandon Study Studholme expertly headed home. A really high quality team goal! More sustained pressure followed with Emmerson rattling the woodwork and Scotland making some more fine saves from Study, Luke Owston and Andy McMahon.

The second goal came when a good cross from the right eluded Study in the middle and fell to Lee Latimer, who turned the ball back for Hewitson to fire home. Study soon scored his second and Shields third when he combined well with Matty ‘Masha’ Selby and fired home. Masha then struck a fine shot which came back off the bar and the follow up effort fell wide of the post, then Lamby and George Barlow linked well only for George’s shot to be well saved. Half time arrived with a 3-0 advantage to the Blacks.

The Reds kicked the second half off and were immediately on the back foot with waves of Juniors attacks. The fourth goal arrived when Tom Webster surged into the box, saw his shot saved and followed up to beat the keeper. Andy McPherson then played a lovely ball down the line to the edge of the opposing box, which Latimer picked up and expertly tucked away into the far corner. 5-0 with the Blacks very much in control. Latimer then struck a lovely shot which hit the bar and Danny Barlow fired in a shot which was well saved. The latter proved only to be a range finder as moments later Danny repeated the feat only to see the ball sail in to the top corner.

Birthday boy George then picked the ball up in defence and made one of his trademark forays forward beating a number of challenges, before firing home from the edge of the box. Seven soon became eight when Masha crossed from the right for Hewitson to crash home for his second. The other birthday boy Webster then scored his second and the Blacks’ ninth turning Hewitson’s cross home form close range.

From the first Wanderers attack of the half, their pacey forward Lewis Betts broke down the left and saw his effort drift just beyond the far post. 

At the other end the tally reached ten when Study latched on to a long ball forward by Joe Thompson, rounded the keeper and fired home for his hat trick. Hewitson soon followed suit completing his hat trick turning Masha’s cross past the unlucky keeper.

The Reds never gave up and were rewarded for their efforts when Betts outpaced the Shields defence down the left and this time seeing his poked effort beating Joe Thompson and dropping inside the far post. 11-1 was how the game finished. A comfortable win for the defending cup holders against a depleted but very spirited Wanderers side.

Man of the Match: Andy McPherson  Managers’ Man of the Match: Andy McPherson
Andy Mac’s turn to scoop both awards for an excellent game in an unfamiliar position at left back. He defended well, always looked to press forward and seldom wasted a pass. A terrific game!

NABC League Division 1
Sunday 2 October 11
North Shields Juniors 3     Wideopen Juniors 3
Studholme, Webster, Hewitson

Another real test was in store for Shields as Wideopen were the visitors to Collingwood on a still overcast October Sunday.

The visitors kicked off and early signs were positive for the Reds with Brandon ‘Study’ Studholme  applying pressure to the Wideopen defence and winning a throw in a dangerous area, Callum Hewitson then won the ball and passed to Study, then Lee Latimer saw his cross blocked. Josh Emmerson then won the ball and passed to Hewitson whose shot was turned for a corner. The corner fell to the edge of the box and Andy McMahon fired just wide.

The first Blues attack was cut out by a fine tackle by George Barlow and then cleared by Luke Owston. The resulting clearance sent Emmerson away and his effort was blocked by solid defending. There followed a moment of real danger with a fine Blues move ending in a shot which rattled the home team upright. Hewitson then won the ball amnd surged out of defence shrugging off several challenges then firing wide. Wideopen sprung on the offensive again and only good tackling by Andy McPherson and Latimer cleared the danger. Owston then made a great tackle to end a dangerous raid by Scott Beattie, and Joe Thompson produced one of his wonder saves clawing the ball away from the top corner following a tremendous shot from the edge of the box. Wideopen were steadily gaining the upper hand and George was again called on to make a last ditch tackle

The breakthrough arrived when the away pressure finally produced a goal. Another fine passing move ended with a shot striking the cross bar with the rebound being turned home by the Wideopen striker.1-0 and the Blues well on top. Joe T was again called on to make a save, then a free kick from the edge of the box went wide of the home post. Some relief arrived for the Reds with Hewitson winning the ball, surging forward and seeing his long range shot saved under the bar. From the clearance the ball found its way to Beattie who showed great skill eluding several challenges as he moved into the box and firing past Joe for 2-0 to the visitors.

Shields then sprang into action with Tom Webster picking the ball up in his own half moving forward and sending Latimer away down the left. His cross was turned away to McMahon who sent the ball back over to the left. The subsequent cross found Study unmarked and he rifled the ball home left footed. 2-1 with the Reds now on a roll. Hewitson fired in another shot from distance and the ball was scrambled clear from the onrushing forwards. Hewitson then linked with Andy Mac giving Dan Barlow the opportunity to fire wide. Latimer then sent in a dangerous cross following good work by McMahon and Webster and from the resulting corner Lamby smashed a great shot which went agonisingly wide. Half time arrived with Wideopen ahead by 2-1.

The Reds kicked off  the second half and were soon on the attack. Hewitson released Latimer and his cross was slid just past the post by Webster. Wideopen moved the ball slickly to the other end and great tackling by Andy Mac cleared the danger. Shields then attacked and Danny sent in a dangerous cross which was cleared for a throw.

Andy Mac was then called into action making another great tackle then tidying up and clearing the lines. The Reds then attacked down their right. Lamby going on a good run before sending in a pinpoint cross which Tom headed home beautifully. The scores now level with all to play for.

Shields applied the pressure and Andy Mac found Study who saw his effort saved then Hewitson saw another long range effort saved. A ball over the top saw Masha Selby putting pressure on the visiting keeper and the follow up by Study going close. But Wideopen were still proving a threat and a dangerous through ball was turned just beyond the post. Another fine surge into the Reds box by Scott Beattie was halted by a foul and the referee pointed to the spot. The Blues made no mistake giving the away side the lead again.

Shields sought to get on level terms and Webster won the ball from a throw down the left and shrugged off the Blues defender and sent a cross to Study from the byeline. His shot fell wide of the mark and the follow up by Emmerson was well saved. Hewitson then sent a free kick from his own half towards goal and saw the effort saved. Hewitson then sent in a cross which was turned over. Andy Mac then surged forward and sent in a dangerous ball which was turned round for a corner. The play then swung to the other end with a Blues shot clearing the bar, then a fine passing move ending with Joe making a great save. With the game moving into stoppage time Shields mounted one final desperate attack. The ball was passed to Webster who fed Study, his effort was blocked and the ball fell to Hewitson at the edge of the box and he struck the ball beautifully in to the bottom corner beyond the desperate lunges of the Wideopen defenders. Jubilation for the home side as the referee blew for full time on the restart leaving the teams locked at 3-3.

Another tough game for Shields against a very talented and strong Wideopen side.

Man of the Match: Tom Webster  Managers’ Man of the Match: George Barlow

A good first 5 mins then poor for the rest of the first half when we went 2 goals down and Wideopen could have had more. The introduction of Tom gave us impetus and we got straight back in it through Study. Tom almost equalized in the first attack of the second half before his fine header brought us level. Well done Tom – a game changing performance. George put in a mighty showing today, bravely winning headers, tackles, using the ball well when in possession and really lifting the team from the back against tough opponents. Quality.

We had the upper hand early on in the second half and should have took advantage, but then gave another silly penalty away against run of play in an even second period. But we kept on and equalised with the last kick of the game. Just deserved a point in an exciting game!

We must sharpen up, close down quicker and defend as a team lads!

 

NABC League Division 1
Sunday 25 September 11
North Shields Juniors 7     Beamish Raiders 4
Barlow 3, Webster 2, Hewitson 2

A somewhat unknown quantity faced Shields with the visitors to Preston Park being league newcomers from Beamish who were parachuted into the spare place in our division having been runaway winners of the Gateshead league last season.

The away team kicked the game off and were put under immediate pressure with Shields winning the ball in the middle of the park then Brandon ‘Study’ Studholme holding the ball up and feeding Callum Hewitson. His ball into the danger area fell just wide of the mark for a goal kick. From the clearance, Dan Barlow picked up the loose ball surged in to the box and fired into the corner. 1-0 to the Reds.
Beamish mounted their first attack with a move down the right resulting in a cross and shot comfortably saved by Joe Thompson. The cleared ball was picked up by George Barlow who switched play to the left to Lee Latimer and his ball released Danny down the left who was thwarted by a strong challenge.
At right back, Andy McPherson won the ball and sent a great pass down the line to Tom Webster. He gathered the ball and sprinted in to the box then sent a square ball to Dan at the back post who turned the ball home. 2-0 and the home team now well on top, with George Barlow, Hewitson, Latimer and Study playing some nice football down the left.

Another hint of Yellows danger with the award of a free kick thirty yards out, but the resulting shot going harmlessly wide. At the other end, Andy Mac passed to Hewitson and his shot just cleared the bar.
Out of the blue, a long ball over the top eluded the home team’s defence and the nippy Beamish forward lofted the ball over Thompson to bring the score to 2-1 and giving the away side a foothold in the game.
From the restart the Yellows pressed again and a superb tackle by Luke Owston won the ball and he sent a fine pass forward for Study. He wriggled clear of the Beamish defence and sent in a shot which the keeper saved only for Tom Webster to turn in the rebound. 3-1 now and this was quickly turned into 4-1. Matthew broke free down the right, exchanged passes with Study and crossed for Danny to turn the ball home to complete his hat trick. The Yellows again sprang into attack and Joe was called on to make a great save then a fantastic challenge by Andy Mac cleared the danger.

The Reds then produced some fine play in midfield resulting in the winning of a corner. From the clearance Colyn Liddle won the ball releasing Study, who was well tackled. The ball broke to the Hewitson at the edge of the box who exchanged passes with Matthew Selby and fired an unstoppable shot into the bottom corner. 5-1 and things now appearing comfortable. Not quite....

First Owston provided a great challenge clearing for a corner then Andy McMahon clearing the danger. The ball back in caused a mix up in defence which resulted in the away team forward being fouled in the box and a penalty awarded. Thompson made a great save from the spot kick then brilliantly blocked again from the follow up. Half time arrived with the Reds leading 5-1.

Shields kicked the second half off and immediately James Lamb won the ball and found McMahon and his shot was just wide. Beamish then attacked and Thompson was called on to make an early save.
Play moved to the other end with Study winning the ball then passing to Liddle who exchanged passes with Danny Barlow and saw his shot well saved. Danny then sent a ball into the danger area which Study won and the ball fell to Selby who shot just cleared the bar.

Beamish then went close with firstly a free kick being sent into the box and a shot well saved by Thompson then another free kick well cleared by Owston then George Barlow. Hewitson the sent a great ball to Danny sprinting down the left and his cross was turned wide by Selby. Danny Barlow again broke down the left crossed to Selby who fed Hewitson and his shot sailed in to the top corner. 6-1 now and seemingly an unassailable situation.

Not so. Beamish threatened again and a fine cross in was just headed wide. At the other end McMahon was fouled in a dangerous area and Hewitson ‘s shot was well saved, then a free kick taken by Latimer struck the Yellows post with the rebound turned over by Hewitson. Beamish then attacked down the left and a cross was headed home. 6-2 and surely things still comfortable, particularly with Josh Emmerson attacking down the right sending a cross into the danger area. The ball broke to the other end, and the home team seemed to temporarily stop allowing the away forward to fire home unopposed. 6-3 quickly became 6-4 as the next Beamish attack down the left flank saw the ball in turned past Thompson. With over five minutes left nerves started to jangle for the home support.

The fears were swiftly allayed when a long ball forward by Thompson was well won by Webster and he calmly lofted the ball beyond the Yellow keeper. 7-4 to the Reds and this is how it finished at the final whistle.

Generally a very good performance by Shields against a resilient Beamish side.

Man of the Match: Callum Hewitson Managers’ Man of the Match: Callum Hewitson
Callum scooped both awards for an excellent game in a new position in the centre of midfield, linking the play and switching the ball across the park really well. He capped it with two great goals – excellent stuff! He just pipped hat trick hero Danny Barlow who also deserves a mention for an excellent game on the left of the Shields midfield.

An outstanding first half performance as we went in 5-1 at HT and looking to add more to that. We stopped playing anywhere as well second half and had a mad 10 min spell near the end when we conceded 3 goals and they had their tails up. The final score didn't reflect how dominant we were - very disappointing to concede 3 goals like that, we must learn to play for the full game lads!

Best wishes to Colyn Liddle who has decided to move on to North Shields Athletic.

NABC League Division 1
Sunday 18 September 11
North Shields Juniors 4     Whitley Coast Soccer 1
Webster 2, Hewitson, Emmerson

Coast were the visitors to John Spence on a bright, gale force wind free Sunday morning in what promised to be a stern test for the Reds against a squad full of ex-Shields players.
Shields kicked the game off and the early play was very cagey with both teams seeking to gain the upper hand in the middle of the park. At this stage Dan Barlow and Colyn Liddle were heavily involved. The first hint of danger was provided by Shields with Dan sending a free kick just skimming the bar following a push on Lee Latimer.
The home side started to settle in to the game with Andy McPherson and Andy McMahon linking well down the right giving Matt Selby the opportunity to test the away keeper Jack Anderson. The deadlock was broken when a ball was sent from the right flank to Callum Hewitson out wide on the left. He collected the ball and fired in a shot which beat Coast keeper Anderson and nestled in the net. Unfortunately many of the spectators missed the goal as Callum’s strike coincided with a "fly by" by the Red Arrows. Truly support in high places for the Reds.
1-0 the score and Shields started playing much better football playing the ball to feet and looking dangerous with every attack. Coast were proving very resistant and launched their first attack which saw Joe Thompson clear a long through ball, then George Barlow tackling well to prevent the dangerous right winger from crossing. The resulting corner was cleared by Luke Owston and the follow up shot cleared the bar. Shields moved straight back on the offence with Matty chasing down a long through ball and finding Dan Barlow who fired wide.
Barlow then turned provider when he skipped past a number of challenges on the left flank and sent a lovely cross in for Tom Webster to send his volley against the post, then a speculative overhead kick fall just wide. From the restart, Andy Mac won the ball and sent in a tantalising cross only to see it scrambled clear. Hewitson then won the ball and found Lee Latimer whose shot was well saved. Barlow, Latimer and Hewitson linked well on the left with Dan’s cross just cleared. Andy Mac then sent a great crossfield ball to Latimer and his cross was turned over by Webster.
It was all NSJ at this point and it was just a matter of time before the second goal arrived. In the great tradition of football it was the away team who scored against the run of play. A break down the right and a cross sent into the box, but a mix-up in the Reds defence saw ex-Shieldsman Marcus McConkey the Coast forward get his head to a loose ball beating Joe and leveling the score at 1-1. A further Coast attack was scrambled clear.
The play moved swiftly to the other end with Selby breaking down the right and his cross was sent wide by Webster’s knee. George then surged out of defence, interchanged passes with Webster and Masha then saw the ball cleared for a throw. Another fine ball from Study found Selby who passed to Colyn Liddle and his shot was just wide. As half time approached Webster and Hewitson had further efforts, but the whistle blew with both sides level at 1-1.
Coast kicked off the second half and were put under immediate pressure with Latimer crossing dangerously. Coast then mounted their first attack of the second period and a last ditch tackle by George averted the danger giving the away team a corner, which Thompson saved well and cleared his lines.
Andy Mac then won the ball well and found Study, who released Selby down the right. His effort was denied by a fine challenge which won a throw. Play swung to the other end and Shields collective hearts were in their mouths as Hewitson brilliantly denied the Coast striker, winning the ball in front of his own goal, muscling the forward off the ball and calmly clearing the lines. McMahon was then called in to action clearing well under pressure, then Joe Thompson gathered in a dangerous corner kick.
The decisive third goal arrived when a clearance from defence found Study who held the ball up well. He laid the ball back to Josh Emmerson who smashed a glorious shot from way outside the box which thudded off the bar then bounced into the net off the back of the luckless away keeper Jack Anderson. 2-1 to the Reds who were now back on the ascendency.

Shields quickly won the ball from the restart and Study found Masha breaking down the right. His cross found Emmerson at the back post who turned the ball goalwards for Webster to tap home 3-1 and daylight at last.
The home side were well on top now and Study went close turning and shooting following a good ball from Masha Selby. Another move started with Joe finding Emmerson who passed to Hewitson. He found Study who wriggled past a couple of challenges in the box and fired a shot which was well saved.
Another spirited break by Coast was well marshalled by the central defensive combination of George and Luke Owston. Another chance for Shields with a surging run in the box by Webster whose cross found Study who fired in low only to see it well saved.
Study then fired in another shot which was spilled by the Coast keeper and Webster following in knocked the ball home. 4-1 now to Shields and this is how it stayed at the final whistle.
A good result for Shields earning a deserved victory against a resilient and spirited Coast side.

Man of the Match: Josh Emmerson Managers’ Man of the Match: Josh Emmerson
Really dominated them in the first half but some very sloppy finishing meant we only scored once before HT and Coast equalised with their only clear chance due to a mix-up at the back. Josh changed the game early second half as he scored a rocket and played an excellent determined game. A great busy showing from Josh – really well done!

NABC League Division 1
Tuesday 13 September 11
North Shields Juniors 3     Montagu BC Bluesox 0
Webster 2, Selby

Part two of the ‘Monty’ double header took place at John Spence in the teeth what remained of the hurricane force winds sweeping the country. Although conditions proved to be extremely difficult, both sides tried and in the main succeeded in playing some fine football.
The away team kicked off and were immediately put on the back foot . Andy McPherson won the ball at right back and found Colyn Liddle. He played the ball to Josh Emmerson whose surging run past the Monty midfield ended with him unleashing a shot which struck the post and bounced wide for a goal kick after only 50 seconds. More Red pressure followed with Callum Hewitson, Lee Latimer and Brandon Studholme linking well down the left flank only to be denied an effort on goal.
The Blues mounted their first attack and a ball forward found a forward in space and his shot was well saved by Joe Thompson. Luke Owston was then called into action with a fine tackle preventing further danger following a great Montagu move. Shields went again on the offensive with Hewitson going close twice, firstly seeing his shot go wide following a great pass from the right, then seeing his free kick saved following a foul on Study.
The next Blues attack was broken down by George Barlow who intercepted a pass and went on one of his trademark surges forward only to be denied by a last ditch challenge. Josh then found himself in space and his move into the box was halted with the award of a corner. Monty were still proving a danger at the other end with more good football, but the quartet of Andy Mac, George B, Owston and Hewitson stood firm, and the safe hands of Joe ensured that the score sheet remained blank.
As half time approached Selby had a shot which was well saved, then the same player crossed for Danny Barlow to fire a shot agonisingly wide. The breakthrough eventually arrived with some great play down the left. Hewitson won the ball, found Emmerson who released Danny. He slid a perfect ball to the back post for Masha to tap home. 1-0 to the Reds as the half time whistle sounded.
Shields kicked the second half off and started the second half in the same way as the first with Study being denied following a through pass by Owston. Andy McMahon then linked well with Study who found Danny Barlow and his shot was just wide.
The Blues mounted their first attack which was charged down by Hewitson, then George made a tremendous tackle to clear the danger. The ball was sent back into the Reds box and the resulting shot produced a super save by Joe.
The Reds surged to the other end, with Dan Barlow finding Hewitson who strode down the left flank and sent in a shot which produced a great save at the near post by the visiting keeper. Danny himself then had a shot which was well saved and another shot just wide following a Hewitson throw.
Another tremendous ball forward saw Tom Webster outpace the defender only to be denied by the tackle of the match by the visitors’ central defender who injured himself in the process. Masha Selby was then denied by a great save by the Monty keeper
A second goal arrived, when good work between Masha and Latimer presented Webster with the opportunity to find the net from close range.
As seen from the previous encounter the Blues could not be written off as from the restart they launched an attack and saw their nippy forward fouled in the box by Lamb. A penalty was awarded and fortunately for the home side, the kick went wide of the post. Joe T was called into action again pulling off a brilliant save low down turning the ball round the post.
A couple of Blues corners ensued, and from one of the corners the Reds broke out with the ball finding its way to Selby. He sent the ball forward for Webster to outpace the away defence and beat the keeper to make the score 3-0. A real quick breakaway goal reminiscent of the type so often demonstrated by Man Utd, quality stuff! More home pressure saw Danny Barlow and Latimer go close, but at the final whistle Shields ran out 3-0 winners.
Great back to back wins against a strong Montagu side with some fine football being played by both sides in dreadful conditions.

Man of the Match: Joe Thompson   Managers’ Man of the Match: Matthew Selby
Really strong wind blowing across the pitch which made it very difficult but Shields kept the ball on the ground and played some excellent stuff in large spells of the game. Again we should have had more goals but a good performance. They missed a penalty and Joe made some excellent saves to keep a clean sheet. Matthew showed exactly what he is capable of using both his pace and skill to great effect - a great performance both lads

Sunday 11 September 11
Montagu BC Bluesox 1   North Shields Juniors 3
            Webster, Studholme, McMahon

A fixture against a tough Montagu side provided Shields with the opportunity to bounce back quickly from the disappointment of the opening match. Both teams were greeted with a blustery bright Sunday morning with every indication that the strong wind would have some influence on the proceedings.

‘Monty’ kicked off and the Reds appeared to be quicker out of the blocks. The first attack saw the ball moved down the NSJ left and a quick throw gave Danny Barlow the chance to fire in a shot which was well saved by the home keeper. Callum Hewitson attacked again down the left flank and his cross was headed on by Dan Barlow to Masha Selby whose effort was scrambled clear. The first hint of the danger posed by the Blues attack was comfortably snuffed out by George Barlow and cleared by James Lamb. Colyn Liddle then won a great tackle in midfield and found Brandon Studholme whose ball over the top just eluded the raiding Andy McMahon.  Another fine move down the right saw Liddle find Lamby whose ball sent McMahon clear and his cross into the danger area was swept clear.

On the left wing Dan, Lee Latimer and Study linked up well and Hewitson sent a dangerous cross in only to see Masha’s effort on goal saved. George Barlow then won the ball strongly and passed to McMahon, who showed great tenacity in beating three players and releasing Masha whose shot was just wide of the mark. More good play down the right saw Lamby’s cross cleared from the danger area. A moment of real danger, the nippy Blues forward Phoenix Telfer broke in to the Reds box and was forced wide by the cool defending of Luke Owston, and his shot went harmlessly wide. A further scare for the Reds defence with a free kick awarded on the right edge of the Shields box. Fortunately for the visitors, the resultant kick sailed wide of the mark.

Again Shields pressed with firstly down the right flank McMahon and Lamby linking with the cross just eluding the Reds forwards, then Danny Barlow found Hewitson and his shot from distance was just wide of the mark. Dan himself the eluded two tackles and his right foot effort was just the wrong side of the post. Another dangerous cross from Hewitson was helped on by Selby for McMahon to bravely head the ball past the on rushing keeper. Unfortunately for the Reds the effort was scrambled clear and no penalty award for the keeper crashing into Andy after the ball had gone. Having been in the ascendency for most of the first half the Reds were put under pressure by some spirited Blues play. Firstly Andy ‘Mac’ McPherson cleared well under pressure and from distance a Montagu strike appeared to heading for the top corner until Joe Thompson pulled off one of his wonder saves tipping the ball round for a corner. More danger from the corner as the ball was headed towards goal only for Joe again to make a fine save. The half closed with the bulk of the play in midfield as both teams tried to gain the upper hand. The whistle sounded with the score tied at 0-0.

The Reds kicked the second half off and were put under pressure straight away. From a long clearance the ball broke for the Blues forward and a timely challenge by Owston sent the ball out for a corner. Andy Mac cleared the corner to Josh Emmerson, whose surging run down the left turned saw the danger shifting from one end to the other.

The opening goal eventually arrived and it was certainly worth waiting for. Dan Barlow won the ball brilliantly in the middle of the park, showed great composure to find McMahon, who exchanged passes with Tom Webster, before passing to Study. His knock into the box found Webster on a surging run and his control and shot found the bottom corner of the net – an excellent team goal. 1-0 to the Reds.
From the kick off, Shields won possession and a speculative ball over the top saw Study chase and harass the home defence. His persistence paid off as a weak clearance found its way to his feet and from just outside the box he turned the ball into the empty net. 2-0 and collective Reds nerves settled.
Shields continued to apply the pressure and more fine play from Study found Hewitson surging forward and his shot from distance going wide. It appeared all one way as the Reds sought to increase their advantage, however a mix up following a goal kick found the home forward who eluded defensive challenges and fired the ball past Joe from the edge of the box. 2-1 and game on again.

Shields quickly restored their two goal advantage when Emmerson sent in a superb cross to Webster. Tom in turn found Study who slipped it to McMahon surging into the right hand side of the box and his powerful shot proved too strong for the diving Monty keeper to make it 3-1. More great Reds football with McMahon winning the ball and finding Study. He surged forward, exchanged passes with Webster and saw his shot go agonisingly wide.

The home side produced a moment of danger when a move forward ended with shot going just wide of Joe’s post. At the other end Webster again attacked down the right and crossed to Masha Selby. He found Emmerson and his shot was turned away for a corner. From the corner Hewitson found McMahon and his header on goal was well saved.

From the next Monty attack George Barlow won the ball and surged forward out of defence eluding several Blues challenges. He found Emmerson who moved it on to Webster and his cross was met by Masha whose effort went close.

The Reds continued to have the upper hand as the game moved towards its conclusion, and at the final whistle they ran out 3-1 winners. A great result against a very strong Montagu side after the disappointment of Friday.

Man of the Match: Tom Webster   Managers’ Man of the Match: Colyn Liddle
Tom’s speed and skill caused the Monty back four no end of problems  - a good performance today from the NSJ no 14. Colyn was back to his best today, winning the ball in midfield and passing it nice and simple to retain possession and start attacks. Great stuff from the Shields skipper.

A good response to the Wallsend defeat as the confidence on the ball returned. Despite a great deal of good possession in the first half it didn’t produce many chances but a great second half showing would have resulted in a much bigger win with some calmer and more clinical finishing. The opening first goal was a joy to watch and demonstrated what these boys are capable of. Well done lads, but I think there is a lot more to come from you!

NABC League Division 1
Friday 9 September 11
Wallsend Boys Club 6   North Shields Juniors 1
          Hewitson (pen)

The new season dawned with Shields on a wave of optimism following their outstanding triumph in North Tyneside tournament over the Summer. The fixture list provided a very stiff test with a visit for the opening match with a visit to Wallsend on a blustery Friday evening on a bone dry bumpy pitch.

Wallsend kicked the game off and settled quickly with some slick passing. Their first danger was well dealt with by former Wallsend player Callum Hewitson who cleared well from the dangerous Yellows forward. Further home pressure saw a break down the left and a fine cross in to the Reds danger area was headed clear by Hewitson and the resulting corner punched clear by Joe Thompson. The ball was sent back towards the Shields goal and tucked away by a Yellows striker. 1-0 to the home side.

The first hint of Reds danger with Matthew ‘Masha’ Selby sending a great ball through only to see Tom Webster thwarted by a last ditch challenge. Further Reds attack resulted in a right wing corner which was met by another ex-Wallsend player James Lamb whose effort was cleared to the edge of the box. A foul on Andy McMahon gave Hewitson the chance to unleash a trade mark long distance free kick which was saved under the bar by the home keeper. Play moved swiftly to the other end seeing a shot going wide of the Shields goal. Danny Barlow then went close for Shields latching on to a long free kick and seeing his shot well saved. Wallsend piled further pressure on to the Shields back line and following a series of corners the ball fell to the feet of a unmarked Yellows forward and he made no mistake from close range. 2-0 and the signs were looking ominous for the visitors.

From the restart McMahon linked with Lee Latimer only to see his effort cleared, then Webster linked with Lamby who played a great ball for Masha for his effort to be cleared for a corner. From the corner the ball appeared to have been cleared by the Yellows, but the referee spotted a push in the back on Colyn Liddle and he pointed to the spot. Hewitson stepped up and made no mistake to breathe life into the Reds challenge. 2-1 and all to play for…

Both teams then sought to gain the upper hand as they battled it out in midfield and again Dan Barlow went close following great play by McMahon, Brandon ‘Study’ Studholme and Selby. As time ticked away the ball fell to the influential big Wallsend midfielder Woody, who from a seemingly harmless situation, unleashed a wonder strike which sailed over Joe’s head and into the top corner. 3-1 to Wallsend as the whistle blew for half time.
Shields started the second half and were immediately put under pressure with first Joe clearing then George Barlow putting in a fine challenge to avert the danger. Luke Owston, fresh off a holiday plane then showed his quality with a well timed challenge and clearance. Hewitson then showed some great tenacity in defence and sent a superb ball for Study down the left flank. He showed great skill finding Latimer whose cross was turned away, then Study himself went close with a fine effort. Wallsend attacked and a dangerous corner was well cleared by Latimer.

The next goal was going to prove vital but unfortunately for the Reds it fell to the home side. A huge clearance form the Wallsend keeper eluded all the Reds defence and was turned past Joe by the on rushing home attacker. Shields tried to get back in to the game but the deficit quickly increased with a ball into the NSJ box being struck home by the home attack. 5-1 now to Wallsend and things looking very bleak for Shields.

At the other end chances were proving to few and far between with Masha finding Webster whose shot was comfortably saved. At the other end Wallsend were in the ascendency and only some last ditch challenges prevented further home goals. A sixth eventually followed when some great individual skill by the home forward ended with him tucking the ball past Joe. 6-1 and things could have got worse with several home shots just missing the target.

The final whistle came with a final score of 6-1 to the home side. Hardly a dream start to the new season, however there is an early opportunity to kick start the season with 2 more tough games in quick succession over the next 5 days versus Montagu BC Bluesox.
 
Man of the Match: Danny Barlow   Managers’ Man of the Match: Danny Barlow
One of the only players to show any calmness on the ball saw Dan take both awards this week. A difficult first game when most NSJ players were clearly not at their best.

Having only played one friendly game over the last 4 weeks, Shields were very rusty and their lack of match sharpness showed as they became victim of some very cool and clinical Wallsend finishing. Hopefully the boys can quickly get over this setback, find their match fitness and confidence to show their true capabilities. One to forget lads.