Under 14s Athletic

From the kick off it was Ryton who applied the early pressure forcing Shields to give away a needless free kick,initially it was defended well but back came Ryton,a cross in from the left should of been easily dealt with evaded everyone and sneaked into the goal.0-1.Shields heads did not drop to their credit,they pushed forward and won a corner,the ball in by Brad caused confusion and when a Ryton player clearly handled the ball in the box,Shields players and crowd thought they'd won a penalty but to every one's dismay the referee allowed play to carry on and not award the penalty claiming he did not see the incident.Moments later the best move of the game came when Shields played about six one touch passes ended with Luke slotting the ball past the keeper but again the referee did not give the goal claiming their was a foul which nobody else saw.Shields nearly went 2 down when a Ryton player beat the offside trap,his shot cannoned back off Lewis and bounced off the same player just wide of the right hand post.Shields pressed again when Cameron won a corner after some neat play Mark.Brad's ball in was unfortunately headed just wide by Alex.Both sides had equal possession towards the end of the half but it was Shields who nearly equalised when Mark went on one of his long mazy runs only to see his shot hit the side netting.

Shields started where they left off when Alex's shot was only parried by the keeper for a corner,Brad's ball in was cleared to Luke who smashed a long range volley in to level the match,no more than Shields deserved.1-1.The away side kept the pressure on and when Harry.G threw one of his Rory Delap long ball in it caused confusion and Harry.S snapshot was saved.Ryan was mopping up the loose passes by Ryton,his pass to Brad was inch perfect,he beat the fullback and crossed but unfortunately the keeper just beat Luke to the ball.Shields were playing well but a lapse in concentration allowed Ryton to get behind the defence and the cross was easily slotted past the helpless Lewis to restore the lead,it has to be said against the run of play.2-1.Shields had Ryton penned in there own half for periods of the game with the occasional break which they dealt with well until a Ryton corner near the end of the game,the ball in was eventually collected by Lewis but an opposing player clearly kicked it out of his hands straight into the goal,this was blatantly a foul but the referee pointed to the centre circle thus allowing the goal.Shields did get another opportunity to score before the final whistle when Mark was fouled,Luc who had defended well since coming on put a good ball in but it just evaded our two strikers before the ref blew for full time.

Willington Quay pressed from the whistle with a scramble in the Shields box and the shot was somehow deflected over the bar for a corner.Joe defended well clearing the danger to Alex then onto Ryan who impressively jinked passed two defenders before winning a throw to Shields.Willington intercepted and with a great through ball to their No18 giving him a chance at goal but Mark was on hand to block the shot.Now Willington's No21 was through on goal after a great long ball over the top but Lewis was equal to it.Brad and Alex battled hard in midfield to create a chance for Cameron who unfortunately sliced the ball wide.Willington attacked again winning a free kick just outside the box,the ball in was helped into the net by the use of a hand to Shields amazement the referee let the goal stand-a poor decision!.1-0.From the restart Billy had a chance to score but his shot went agonising wide after some great work by Cameron and Luke combining well in the box.Moments later Willington forced a corner which was headed in to double the home side's lead.2-0.A few minutes later Willington created another chance but Harry was on hand to clear the ball off the line,Mark raced clear with the ball and was eventually upended,Cameron took the free kick which unluckily hit the top of the crossbar.In the final moments a poor Willington goal kick was controlled by Brad to Billy but his snapshot went just wide.

From the restart Willington Quay pushed Shields back and forced a corner,Marks clearance found Luke who was fouled and awarded a free kick.Mark floated the ball into the box for Luke who saw his shot go narrowly wide.Alex won the goal keepers long kick and played some lovely one-two's with Brad who won a corner,Cameron's ball in was cleared for a second corner,this time Brad's cross was headed agonisingly wide by Liam-a good chance gone begging.Moments later the two Harry's combined well unfortunately the header went straight into the keepers arms.Then Liam with dogged determination broke through Willington defence after Ehrin's pinpoint pass only to see his shot deflected wide of the upright.From the resulting corner Liam again headed wide of the mark.Willington pushed on and Luc came to the rescue with two great last ditch tackles to deny the opposition any chance on goal.Willington were becoming a little frustrated and when the ball broke to Luke he was hauled down.Cameron's great ball in caused a goal mouth scramble and Liam's shot sailed over the bar to the relief of the home side.Shields were awarded another free kick soon after when the No18 hand balled,Mark's goal bound effort was easily caught by the keeper.The No18 was involved again when a long ball up field landed at his feet,he turned and shot only to see it fly well over the bar.Near the end of the half Willington pressed up their right the cross in was well controlled by striker and blasted home just before the final whistle.

Today shields travelled to Grainger park,the weather was sunny and hopes were high.Within minutes Shields pushed forward with Brad winning a free kick.Liam floated the ball in but Grainger were first to it clearing the danger and quickly went on the counter. somehow Liam managed to get back and twice cleared the ball out of the Shields box.Brad made a run up the left past a defender but was tripped from behind in the box to give Shields a penalty.Luke took and calmly slotted the ball in for the opening goal 0-1.Grainger responded and pushed forward finally ending with their No 8 in on goal,however mark was on hand too dispossess and make a clever ball through to Liam to put Shields back on the attack.Strong midfield play by Ryan created the next chance for Shields with Billy and Cameron all involved to give Luke a shot just outside the box that went narrowly wide.Shields were in control now with brilliant tackles flying in from our defence and excellent passing in midfield.Firstly from Billy to Cameron finding Luke Who's shot was saved well. Again Cameron in action winning and taking a corner,for Liam to nod home with a diving header 0-2.With Grainger playing the long ball over the top Alex and Ehrin stood strong leaving Grainger's striker with little opportunity.Then Mark impressively and cooly cleared two Grainger corners keeping them at bay.In the final moments of the half good link up play between Liam and Joe gave Cameron a chance which he struck well unfortunately just wide clipping the post.Shields deserved their two goal lead going into the break.

Both sides made an even start to the second half but it was Shields who created the first chance when Billy collected a long ball from Lewis and passed to Luke who drove towards goal and unleashed a curling shot but unfortunately the keeper pulled off a great save.Grainger reacted and pushed on which resulted with a shot going just wide.Luke had another chance to score but shot wide after a full pitch length mazy run by Mark,It was Ryan's turn to break up play in midfield and supply Luke with a great ball but this time a defender got a block on the shot.Moments later Grainger park were awarded a throw in which Shields stole and this time Luke made no mistake and slotted home after Ryan's inch perfect pass.0-3.From the restart Grainger had an opportunity to score when the no7 beat the offside trap but Lewis pulled out a great save to keep a clean sheet.Shields pressed again and won a corner which Brad played to Luke just waiting outside the box,the shot cannoned off the defender and fell to Alex who saw his shot go just wide.Shields next opportunity started with the goalkeeper to Luc to Liam and on to Brad who drove into the box but his shot was easily saved.shields were dominating play now and were creating chance after chance and it was great combination play by Alex and Luke to Billy who jinked his way into the box and slotted the ball through the keepers legs to extend Shields lead.0-4.Shields then scored a fifth goal when Luc put Luke in,he beat the defender and blasted home.Grainger picked up a consolation goal late on to deny Shields a clean sheet.

FIRST HALF
In theopening minutes,both teams made a good start with play being mostly in midfield,when Shields conceded a harmless throw in on the halfway line.The ball in was flicked onto Willington's striker who ran through Shields defence and coolly lobbed Lewis to open the scoring 0-1.From the restart Shields broke down the left,Cameron crossed and Luke's header was somehow cleared off the line.Just as Shields looked for a equaliser the inevitable happened,some poor defending allowed a
Willington player to run through and slot the ball into the corner of the net to double their lead 0-2. Shields halved the lead moments later when a great move starting with Joe involving 5 players ended with a rasping shot by Billy into the bottom corner 1-2.Willington Quay restored their two goal lead almost immediately when they were allowed to walk through the defence and stroke the ball into the back of the net 1-3.Willington could of extended their lead if it was not for Mark who made an outstanding goal line clearance.Late on in the half a shot by Willington brought out a brilliant save by Lewis tipping the ball onto the bar and out for a corner.Liam headed the ball away for a second corner which was well defended before the referee blew for half-time.

SECOND HALF
Shields started the stronger of the two teams when good interplay by Harry,Billy,Luke who pass to Mark resulting in a shot just over the bar.Moments later Mark
was involved again with another shot unfortunately just wide.Shields gave away a throw in,the ball in was won back well by Luke who crossed to Cameron in the area, he controlled well and guided the ball into the net to bring Shields back into the game 2-3.Willington Quay were unlucky when their No 12 saw his shot beat Lewis but luckily for Shields it cannoned off the crossbar and out to safety.Shields had their tails up and were looking for an equaliser with some great play between Alex and Brad causing Willington Quay problems down the right.But it was the away side who scored the next goal when a long ball over the top was slotted in the net against the run of play 2-4.This seemed to spur Willington Quay on and Shields found themselves under pressure but they stood firm with Lewis making some great saves and Ehrin blocking a shot to keep themselves in the game.Shields forced a corner,Alex headed the ball goal bound but it was cleared,the ball back in was controlled by Luke and volleyed home.3-4.It was an exciting end to the match but Willington Quay held on to clinch the victory.

Managers Comment.
again a poor start cost us the game here as after that we competed as well as the opposition for the rest of the game, something which was addressed in a frank discussion at training 3 away games left to ensure finishing outside the bottom three and potential relegation, i know we can do it the performances are getting better each week.

FINAL SCORE NORTH SHIELDS 3 WILLINGTON QUAY 4

MOM MARK WRIGHT

OPPOSITION MOM LEWIS JANSEN

During the warm-up both teams had to contend with snowy conditions,however it cleared just before kick-off,although there was a bitterly cold wind. Alnwick bossed the play from the start and when Shields gave away a free kick 10 minutes in,the shot sailed over the helpless Lewis and in 1-0. Shields were punished again moments later when poor defending gifted a Alnwick player the chance to shoot,which they duly did to make it 2-0. Shields to their credit responded and when a great through ball by Cameron put Luke clear,he cleverly lobbed the keeper to score a great goal and put Shields back in the match 2-1.Shields could do nothing to stop Alnwick's No 10 as he danced around several tackles and guided the ball into the net 3-1.Shields were awarded a free kick for a handball 30 yards out,after some great 1-2s involving Billy,Brad and Luke.Mark took the kick,the ball seeemed to evade everyone including the keeper and went it 3-2. Just before half-time Liam picked up the ball in defence drove at Alnwick weaving through eventually forcing a corner.The ball in was cleared by Alnwick who broke clear resulting in an effort which glided just over the bar.

From the start Shields were put under pressure from the away side who won a free kick just outside the box,fortunately the shot went wide.Lewis was then called into action when he easily caught a first time volley from outside the area.Montagu then forced a corner and curled the ball across the face of goal finding a unmarked player on the back post for an easy tap in 0-1.After the restart a Montagu player was put clean through,putting him one on one with Lewis who made a great tackle at the feet of the striker.A long ball by Lewis found Billy on the right,his cross was deflected behind for a corner.The ball in found Liam who headed a goal bound shot which was again deflected for another corner.This time Ryan's shot went narrowly wide.Montagu responded straight away,they beat the offside trap,wrong footed Lewis and neatly slotted in 0-2. Shields heads dropped slightly and Montagu stepped into another gear to score a further two more goals 0-4. Shields picked themselves up and were awarded a free kick 25 yards out after a poor tackle on Cameron.He duly took and his shot was somehow cleared off the line,the ball fell back to him however his long range effort went wide.

It was a strong start to the second half for Shields,when they produced chance after chance.The first being a flick on to Ryan who passed to Billy but saw his shot go just wide.Then some great interplay by Brad and Luke saw Cameron head just wide.Shields again forcing a corner,the short one was used and when the ball fell to Ryan in the box he looked certain to score,but was somehow tackled and defended well.Shields were dominating but were hit on the counter attack when a long ball was headed on and a unmarked player ghosted in to score 0-5.Shields went in search of a goal and created a chance for Luke which flew just over the bar. Then a ball across the box was just out of reach for Luke's out stretched leg.Soon after came a penalty claim from the home side when a cross into the box was blatantly hand balled but unfortunately the referee from his angle couldn't see.Then Montagu got a stroke of luck when a cross was blown into the net by a strong gust of wind 0-6.Shields did get a goal late on when Luc lobbed a ball over to Liam who's half volley was parried by the keeper and Cameron blasted home 1-6.At the end Montagu's left winger scored to make it 1-7.It has to be said the score does flatter the opposition however Shields should be proud of themselves in the way they played and never say die attitude.

Ryton started the second half where they left off on the attack. A ball over the top beat the offside trap, the shot curled around the keeper but fortunatley went wide of the post. Shields responded well when Liam and Brad linked up well, the latter put a great cross in but no-one attacked the ball and it went out for a goal kick. Moments later a long ball by Ryton was going harmlessly out when Joe headed the ball up but unfortunatley it looped over the keeper and into the net. 0-1 . Joe was involved again when his untimley challenge in the box was seen as a penalty by the ref, the striker made no mistake and made it 0-2. Shields heads dropped and it wasnt long before Ryton scored again when a midfielder danced through Shields defence and calmly slotted it in to make it 0-3. Shields misery got worse when another two goals scored making in 0-5. Late on Luke won the ball, layed a pass to Brad who put Liam clean through unfortunatley his left footed volley hit the side netting. In the final minutes Luke hit a volley that went just over. Shields handed Ryton a two goal lead which was the turning point in the match up to then Shields had worked hard and defended well but maybe on another day Shields could have stolen a point.

In the opening minutes Shields created the first chance after a shot from Luke was easily caught by the keeper,but it was Westgate who opened the scoring when the ball fell to their No8 in the box who easily slotted in after a succession of corners.0-1.Shields responded quickly with some great 1-2's from Brad and Ryan to create a opportunity for Luke to race through the Westgate defence and smash the ball home.1-1.Shields heads were up,they created two more opportunities this time for Harry.S,one which was tipped around the post,the next had the keeper beaten only for it to go narrowly wide.But it was Westgate who scored next when a throw-in on the halfway line was headed on and crossed into the box,Shields slack defending was punished as one of the two unmarked players smashed the ball high into the net.1-2.Moments later Shields were awarded a free kick,the ball in was put out for a corner,Westgate defended well and broke,there striker found himself one on one with Matty who pulled out a top draw save.Shields had to be on alert as Westgate looked as though they could score again and almost did if it were not for some last ditch tackles by Joe and Ehrin.Late in the half Westgate did score again when they broke down the right wing,the striker collected the ball in the box and was given far to much time and picked his spot to add to Shields misery.1-3.

NORTH SHIELDS V WALLSEND COMMUNITY 11TH MARCH 2012 CUP MATCH

FIRST HALF

Conditions were difficult with a strong wind but Shields created the first chance with a long ball through by Cameron to Luke which was intercepted,Alex picked up the loose ball and fed Cameron who crossed from the left,however the keeper tipped the ball just as Brad was about to head it.Great one touch passing starting from Joe in defence to Harry,Brad,Alex then finally Luke forcing a corner,however the ball in was defended well.Moments later Wallsend won a free kick 25 yards out,Shields cleared and turned defence into attack with Scott driving forward but his shot went narrowly wide.A shields throw-in to Luke who drove at the defence and scored with a long range shot.1-0.Wallsend responded with an attack down the left,the ball in was a good one although Cameron was on hand to clear the danger.Liam broke down the left,passed to Cameron who scored a brilliant goal from near the corner flag,which sailed over the keeper's head.2-0.A rare Wallsend attack saw Matty produce a impressive save pushing the shot around the post,soon after he was called into action again intercepting a cross which stopped what looked like a certain goal.Late on in the half Liam and Cameron linked up well to Luke who's point blank volley was somehow saved by the keeper.

SECOND HALF

This half would be a test for Shields as the tail wind was with Wallsend.The away side soon forced a corner,the ball in was cleared only for a Wallsend player to strike just over.More pressure by Wallsend nearly produced their opening goal when a long ball over Shields defence to the no11 who shot straight at Matty to the home supporters relief.A chance to Shields with a ball by Cameron which split Wallsend's defence to Luke who,s deep cross to Brad was fed to Scott,however the keeper reached it first.A lapse in Shields concentration gave Wallsend a corner and the unmarked no5 duly slotted home.2-1.Wallsend were awarded a free kick in a dangerous area,luckily for Shields Joe was on hand to clear the ball.Moments later good link up play by Liam and Luc forced a goal mouth scramble with shot's reigning in from Liam,Jordan and James some how blocked and cleared.In the dying minutes Shields defended a succession of Wallsend corners to hold on for the victory.

FINAL SCORE 2-1

MANAGERS COMMENT

Quarter final day in the NCYP cup, was always going to be a tight game and as the report suggests conditions were very difficult, we welcomed Joe Lennie to the team today and proved straight away what an asset he will become.Some of the football played by the home side was among the best seen in recent weeks and had it not been for the disruptions of a couple of head injuries stemming the flow, a satisfactory first half may have been even better, but concerns were their that we had not capitalised on the strong wind enough.As the second half began the wind seemed to increase, but the home defence stood strong with able assistance from the midfield in front of them and even managed to create some chances of their own but for some excellent last ditch defending may have increased the lead. In typical cup match form though the final minutes were nail biting, but what should we expect , this was a quarter final after all. the whistle blew along with Wallsends hopes and Athletic came out deserved victors. we need to carry on now to league form and move up the table. well done boys.

MOM CAMERON LLOYD

OPP MOM JOE LENNIE

NORTH SHIELDS v CRAMLINGTON TOWN YELLOWS SUNDAY 26th 2012

FIRST HALF

After a slow start the first break came to the yellows who's deflected shot went out for a corner,from which James defended well and cleared his lines.Shields response was immediate,when Brad robbed the yellow's defender,he cut inside and showed good skills before tucking the ball into the corner.1-0.Yellows responded quickly and the long ball over the top caused chaos in defence and their No7 fired a fierce shot past Mattie.1-1.Shields too tried the long ball and Luc was causing problems for the away side's defence and his long range effort went just over.Luc broke again and forced a good save,the keepers long kick up the middle caused Shields problems and yellow's No7 almost doubled his tally.Luc was involved again and a good ball to Brad saw him shoot narrowly wide.Moments later Shields won a corner after good link-up play between Ryan,Dan and Brad,from which the keeper somehow saved Camerons fierce shot.Shields continued to press and once again Luc was involved and his clever ball to Dan was neatly chipped in to give the home side a deserved lead.2-1.Yellows should have levelled from the restart but somehow missed the target from 6 yards out.Shields hit back and Ryan put Luc through,his fierce shot smashed against the post and when the rebound fell to Liam he made no mistake.3-1.Yellow's almost hit back twice when first Mattie produced a great save and then Alex blocked a certain goal.Shields tried the long ball again and when it was cleared to Liam wide left he saw the keeper was off his line,he hit a long range shot into the back of the net.4-1.

SECOND HALF

Cramlington had obviously had a pep talk and came out of the blocks quickly and were denied by Ehrin's goal line clearance.Yellow's continued to press and a defensive mistake almost cost Shields but Mattie came to the rescue.Yellow's thought they had scored shortly afterwards but this time Cameron cleared off the line.The pressure exerted by yellows eventually paid off when loose defending enabled them to narrow the gap.4-2.Shields responded briefly but firstly Liams shot went narrowly wide and when Brad put Dan clear he shot straight at the keeper.Yellow's countered and Mattie once again came to the rescue but the respite was short lived and yellows hammered a failed clearance home to make it.4-3.Shields looked nervous and defensively frail and another goal bound shot by yellow's was cleared off the line-this time by Harry.In a brief spell of Shields pressure a great cross by Cameron saw Jordan rise and head goal bound,although the keeper was beaten it was the yellow's turn to clear off the line.When yellow's broke again it was no surprise to see them smash home the equaliser given the lack of confidence in dealing with the long ball down the middle.4-4.The match ended and Cramlington were jubilant at picking up their first point in 16 attempts.the overused cliche` "football is a game of two halves" was certainly true in this case.

MANAGERS COMMENT.

Well again restricted to the role as spectator, games like this do not help to aid in recovery, although 4-1 up at half time the visitors had created enough chances to be level if not ahead and in the second half our luck ran out, yes we have new defenders in there and they will need time to bed in, form an understanding and gain match fitness, but all that will come.we have a free week next week before a quarter final match in the NCYP cup.Again thank you to Gary and Joe for stepping in and taking over, without their help there would be no team !

FINAL SCORE 4-4

OPPOSITION MOM LIAM LARMOUTH

MANAGERS MOM DAN LAIDLER

NORTH SHIELDS v LONGBENTON SUNDAY 19th FEBRUARY 2012 CUP MATCH

FIRST HALF

The first five minutes saw both sides giving away possession cheaply and no-one dominating play.The first chance fell to Longbenton when a speculative long ball found their no5 unmarked in the box and somehow he shot over from six yards.This seemed to spur the visitors on and when they won a free kick on the edge of the box only a good block by the defensive wall saved the day.Shields first real attack came when Ehrin found Brad on the right and his clever ball over the top put Luke clear who crossed to Scott and his first time shot was blocked and cleared.Alex,Brad and Luke were showing good interplay down the right aided by Ryan in midfield but Longbenton were defending well and when the broke clear they were denied the opener by a great tackle by Liam.Soon after another long ball caught Shields napping and the no5 made no mistake this time giving Mattie no chance.0-1.Longbenton pressed from the kick-off but were halted by Ehrin who put a neat ball to Brad who linked well with Luke to find Scott and again his shot was blocked.Longbenton countered but Ehrin and Liam stood firm until a penalty was awarded for handball.It seemed a harsh decision and justice was done when the penalty was missed.Shields responded and Ryan found Scott who put a good ball to Harry and he lifted a nice ball to Cameron on the left but his fierce shot went just over.

SECOND HALF

From the k.o,Longbenton looked much sharper and doubled their lead following a neat move and a shot converted at the second attempt.0-2.Shields tried to respond and Luke battled hard to win a corner,Longbenton defended the corner well and broke clear,the long ball through the middle did the trick again finding their no9 unmarked to slot home.0-3.They almost scored again minutes later but were foiled by a fantastic fingertip save by Mattie.From the resulting corner the ball broke to a Longbenton player on the edge of the box and his fierce drive made it .0-4.Shields were under the cosh and injuries to James,Ehrin and Harry meant playing the last 10 minutes with 10 men.Shields showed real grit and Luc showed good skills to give Luke a run down the left,he battled hard before firing a great shot over the keeper for a deserved goal.1-4.Longbenton were prevented from increasing their lead by great goal keeping from Mattie who produced a string of great saves in the final minutes.

FINAL SCORE NORTH SHIELDS 1 LONGBENTON 4

Managers Comment

well i had not envisaged writing this while being limited to the role of spectator, buts thats what i am for the next few weeks due to my little! health scare. Gary will take over match day duties with Joe and Shaun will assist them both in training, thanks to you all for the support you are giving me and the team.Anyway down to the game, after the mauling the opposition had handed to us on their patch, i was hoping to see a more commited performance, which i received and the best move of the first half came from the home side and deserved a goal, ok some of the defending had to be last ditch and Matty was in good form but the lads never stopped putting in the effort.Injuries took their tole later in the game and lack of matches showed,Well done to Ehrin on his debut today. we have a run of 3 home games now, keep working hard in training and in matches and the rewards will come.

MOM - LIAM LARMOUTH

OPPOSITION MOM - MATT IE SMITH

NORTH SHIELDS V BLYTH RANGERS - CUP MATCH SUN 22ND JAN

FIRST HALF

Shields started brightly with Jordan and Luke linking well down the right putting Blyth under early pressure.Luke was involved again this time linking well with Brad down the left and creating an opening for Luke but his shot was well saved.From the goal kick Scott latched onto the ball outside the box,he took one look and fired an unstoppable shot into the top corner 1-0.Blyth hit back but good work by James and a good take by Mattie kept them at bay.Shields hit back and good interplay between Brad Luke and Jordan won a corner.The ball in was cleared however it fell to Brad wide left,he beat the full back cutting inside before firing into the top right corner 2-0.From the restart Blyth looked dangerous and only great cover by both Alex and Scott kept Blyth out.Blyth were more in the game now but Harry and Ryan were showing good strength in midfield and breaking down attacks.Shields were lucky when caught out by a ball over the top but Blyths centre forward hit his shot wide.Shields were back in control and Jordan hit a good ball to Luke who put Dan clear down the right.Dan cut inside and his fierce shot rattled the bar-a lucky escape for Blyth.Once again Shields broke down the left putting Luke clear and once again Blyths keeper was the hero.

SECOND HALF

Shields were quick out of the box and Ryan put a great crossfield ball to Harry who's first time shot was well saved.The clearance was hit back in and Brad kept his cool slotting the ball into the corner 3-0. Blyth responded and were unlucky when a good break ended with a shot narrowly wide.Blyth maintained the pressure and brought a good save out of Mattie,then soon after another chance with a good volley going just over.The pressure paid off for Blyth and a neat ball in found their centre forward unmarked and he gave Mattie no chance 3-1.Blyth got their second wind and pushed forward however both Alex and Luc stood strong in defense keeping them at bay.Shields countered and Luke put Liam clear who's good long range effort was well saved.Luke then eased the pressure on Shields with a great solo effort racing 60 yards before firing a fierce low shot into the corner 4-1.Shields picked up the pace,Alex and Brad were linking up well down the right and created an opening for Dan who's shot was blocked.Blyth's chance to close the gap came when they broke clear and looked certain to score but Mattie pulled off a fantastic save to keep the 3 goal margain intact.This seemed to vitalise Shields and sustained pressure saw both Jordan and Dan go close.Blyth tried to counter but once again James and Alex were solid in defence.Shields maintained the pressure and both Liam and Jordan had chances saved.Blyth almost broke clear with a long ball over the top but Scott raced back and produced a great tackle to clear the danger.Alex,Luke and Brad then produced a series of first time passes to open up Blyth's defence but Brads shot was just wide.It was not long before Shields increased their lead courtesy of a defence splitting pass by Dan to Luke who gave the keeper no chance.5-1.Shields finished off in confident mood creating a number of chances in the last 5 minutes by good first time passing but Blyth's keeper kept the score at 5-1.

MANAGERS COMMENT.

Thats 2 from 2 so far in the new year, well done.the passing at times today was not as fluent as i would have liked until the second half when we stepped up a gear, it looked like we were the fitter and it was good to see, there are still problems with the centre of defence, but a new centre half will be in the squad for the next game, welcoming Ehrin to the squad after training with us.the lads who have played there have done their upmost, but they are all midfielders, with a midfielders instinct.The draw for the Q/F has seen us given a home tie v wallsend community and a chance to pay back after the incredible 0-1 defeat at their place.fun session planned for training friday,with prizes to be won ! but dont get too excited.I must say team spirit is good at the moment, we will need this to continue, keep it up lads.

FINAL SCORE 5-1

MANAGERS MOM BRAD ELLWOOD

OPPOSITION MOM SCOTT COATES

CRAMLINGTON TOWN V NORTH SHIELDS SUN 8TH JAN 2012

FIRST HALF

Shields started brightly with good accurate passing moves but Cramlingtons defense was well organised and stood firm. Cramlington almost scored after 5mins but shot wide. Moments later their next attack was stopped by a great tackle from James who hurt himself in the process and had to leave the field. Shields broke down the left and Cameron released Luke but his shot was well saved.Shields started to up the pace and a good cross from Dan forced a corner which Cramlington cleared.Cramlington responded and Matty was forced into action saving a header.Shields pushed forward with great play by Dan finding Luke but his shot hit the side netting.Shields almost broke the deadlock when Jordan and Brad combined well ending in a shot by Brad just wide.Shields continued to press and Brad cut in from the right and his trickery won a free kick on the edge of the box.Cameron hit a fierce free kick against the cross bar and although Jordan netted the re-bound he was ruled offside.Finally the goal came when Shields broke from their own box through Scott who put a great through ball to Jordan who gave the keeper no chance with a fierce shot from the edge of the box.0-1. From the restart Brad intercepted and put a great crossfield ball to Luke but his shot was just wide.Scott then came close with a great long range effort pushed round the post by the keeper.Cramlington almost equalised on the stroke of half-time when a good cross from the right was missed by two of their attackers.HT-0-1

SECOND HALF

Shields were busy from the restart and won an early corner which Cramlington cleared well however James picked up the ball in defense and found Luke who raced clear and scored off the post 0-2.Luke almost scored from the restart but shot just wide.Cramlington pushed forward and Mattie did really well to save a deflected shot.Cramlington were awarded a free kick on the touch line 40 yards out and somehow the ball eluded everyone and ended up in the back of the net.1-2.Cramlington found new spirit and a good saving tackle from Scott thwarted their next attack at the expense of a corner.Brad cut out the corner and put Luke clear up the left to relieve the pressure.Shields then raised the pressure and Cameron broke well from the left before firing a fierce shot that was well saved, however Luke was on hand to force the ball over the line.1-3. Cramlington hit back and were unlucky to hit the bar.From the goal kick Alex played a clever ball to Luke who raced clear and shot into the top corner for his well deserved hat-trick.1-4. Cramlington refused to give in and scored from the restart after a goalmouth scramble. 2-4. Cameron soon restored the gap with a great run and finish to make it.2-5.The gap increased when Dan latched onto a poor clearance and tucked the ball into the corner.2-6.Luke had the final word when Ryan's defense splitting pass put Luke clear to make it 2-7. A good performance after a long break and although there were many tired legs everyone worked hard to the end.

MANAGERS COMMENT

Great to be back for our first game on 2012, with a full squad available i was looking for a good start to the year, on a big pitch i did expect legs to tire and they did, but before that the lads had given their all to win the game, notes of caution were that we had to communicate better at the back and watch being caught square, but after such a long lay off perhaps this was to be expected, a much harder game will be expected next week but after a good work out the lads will be much sharper for the game, well done Luke for his goals, his team mates for assisting him, and Alex for wining every tackle he went in for, their manager said that was why he gave you mom.

FINAL SCORE - 2-7

OPP M.O.M-ALEX SURSHAM

MANAGERS M.O.M-LUKE SINCLAIR

Today Shields travelled to the home of the league leaders Montagu.In the opening minutes both teams looked evenly matched,however it was Montagu who had the first glance at goal,crossing in from the left but Shields defence stood strong clearing to Ryan.Ryan's strength frustrated Montagu forcing a free kick.The ball in was a good one but Montagu responded the better turning defence into attack.They broke the Shields offside trap and went clean through on goal,one on one with Mattie who raced out and produced a great brave save at the strikers feet.From Matties goal kick the ball bounced into the centre circle to Luke,he controlled,turned and shot with a fantastic looping ball over the goalkeeper and into the net from 40 yards out. 0-1.Rattled Montagu pushed hard from the restart but Shields defence were playing the offside trap well,even when Montagu did break through Shields pulled out some outstanding saving tackles by Scott,Liam and Cameron.Montagu thought they'd scored after beating the in form Mattie but out of nowhere Dan appeared to clear off the line.Shields should of gone 0-2 up when Cameron and Luke did some great interplay up the left, the ball in by Luke was inch perfect but the header by Jordan went agonisingly wide.A chance missed we should have taken.Then came a controversial decision and a clear turning point in the game.3 attacking Montagu players were correctly given offside,all the players stopped apart from one who decided to roll the ball into the net.Then to everyone's amazement the referee blew the whistle and pointed to the centre circle giving the goal.This was a serious mis-judgement and the goal should have NEVER stood. 2 minutes later Montagu scored another goal when a good ball through split the Shields defence, Mattie got a hand on the strike however the ball fell to the No 9 who slotted the ball in. 2-1.Both sides created chances towards the end of the half but it stayed 2-1.

Within minutes Montagu pushed up the field on the attack with a 25 yard shot,fortunately flying just over the bar to Shields relief.A short goal kick to Dan who worked the ball up the line to Brad,crossing in,however the Montagu defender blatantly handballed,which the referee choose to ignore.(should have gone to specsavers) Constant pressure up both flanks by Montagu,although Liam Scott and Luc seemed to have the situation under control.Shields won a succession of free kicks due to poor tackles by the Montagu midfield,unfortunately they couldn't capitalise on them.The next goal was going to be cruical.Just as Shields were looking for the equaliser,yes you guessed it,up stepped the referee to award a penalty to Montagu after a perfectly good tackle by Luke in the box.The striker made no mistake in making it 3-1.Now Shields heads had definately dropped and Montagu began to apply more pressure.Soon came Montagu's forth goal with a unmarked cross headed in from the right.4-1. In the later part of the match Mattie kept the score at 4-1 pulling off some outstanding saves.Shields competed today with the best and were only beaten by the referee.

Straight from the kick-off Shields progressed up the left and won a corner,a good ball in by Brad however the Wallsend keeper was alert to it.From the goal kick Wallsend went on the attack but Liam was on hand making a great tackle and turned defence into attack when he put Brad through only to see his shot from a tight angle saved.Now it was Shields keeper to pull off a save, when a long ball over the away side's defence meant Mattie had to rush out and make a save at the strikers feet.Shields started to push and the pressure nearly paid off when good work by Brad and Dan fed a ball to Jordan but unfortunately saw his shot saved.Soon after another strong goal scoring chance for Shields, this time from Luke with a long range shot gliding narrowly wide.Shields then won a corner after good link up play in midfield by Ryan and Alex,Luke put the ball in and Scott rose at the back post unmarked only to see his header go wide.Wallsend once again tried to catch Shields defence out with another long ball over the midfield however Luc's strength cut out the Wallsend attack.Ryan was battled well for every loose ball in midfield, producing a through ball to Luke who's shot rebounded out to the impressive Liam who kept his cool,drove at the home sides defence and shot but the Wallsend keeper was just as impressive tipping it round the post.Moments later Shields were awarded a free kick after a poor tackle on Luke near the corner flag,a great ball in was controlled and volleyed by Scott just over the bar.Unfortunately going into halftime after several chances and most of the possession Shields couldn't convert these into goals and the scoreline remained a frustrating. 0-0.

Shields started strongly where they left off when a great combination between Luke and Cameron gave Luke the opportunity to put Shields ahead but the keeper pulled off a great save at the near-post.From the resulting goal kick Scott won well, controlled, then the attack involved Paul,Brad,Callum and finally ending in a shot by Jordon pushing it just wide.This next move should have been a warning for Shields as Wallsend against the run of play broke and scored, but luckily for Shields it was ruled offside.Moments later Luke showed abit of class and determination beating 3 players down the left,drove into the box and shot well, however the Wallsend keeper once again was on hand to pull off a terrific save.Brad played a short corner to Scott who's shot was saved. Another corner this time it was Liam's turn to see his shot saved - the Wallsend keeper was having a blinder! It was the keeper who punted a long ball down the right which was crossed in and Wallsend headed in,as the stunned Shields players watched on.1-0. Shields should have equalised when great strength by Cameron to beat 2 players, then crossed an inch perfect ball to Dean who put the ball over.Wallsend were playing the long ball game and it nearly paid off again until Mattie pulled out a great save.Wallsend had gained in confidence after their goal and were putting Shields under pressure with more attempts on goal, however Mattie was standing firm.10 minutes to go and Shields threw everything at Wallsend,even the kitchen sink but just couldn't score. A frustrating match for Shields and 3 points lost.

NORTH SHIELDS v MONTAGU FC BLUES SUN 06th 2011

FIRST HALF

Shields welcomed the league leaders to John Spence and they soon realised why they were top as a quick break down the left was cut back to the No9 who smashed the ball in from close range.0-1.Shields tried to respond and won a free kick on the edge of the area but the ball in was easily cleared,a montagu midfielder picked up the loose ball and drove at the shields defence and lashed a good shot from 30 yards out but Mattie was equal to it.Moments later Mattie was unable to keep the score at 0-1 when a defensive mix-up left him stranded to give Montagu a 0-2 lead.Although the home side found themselves 0-2 down,there were signs all over the pitch of a comeback,Luke was unlucky when he saw his goal bound shot loop off a defender and the keeper tipped over after good build up play from Brad and Scott but then the ball fell to the pacey Montagu left winger who put in a inch perfect cross for an easy tap-in.0-3.From the kick off Luke worked the right wing and laid off a great ball to Scott in the penalty area only to see his tight angled shot parried by the keeper.Shields did pull one back when James and Brad worked the ball up the left to Luke who out-paced the right back and smashed the ball into the corner of the goal giving the keeper no chance.1-3.

SECOND HALF

Montagu started the better of the two teams,immediately with a couple of chances,firstly from a corner that Shields dealt with easily,followed by a long range effort which Mattie caught well.Shields picked up the pace,went on the attack forcing a defender to make a mistake giving away a free-kick 25 yards out.Dean put a great ball in which Luke unfortunately headed wide at the back post.Shields were growing in confidence,Brad won a tackle on the left,passed to Ryan then to Scott who put a ball through to Paul who shot,only for a last ditch tackle by a Montagu defender forcing the ball out.From the resulting corner Montagu cleared and the ball fell to Callum who saw his long range drive go over the bar.Ryan won a free kick but Paul's effort was saved by the keeper.Moments later Shields were awarded another free kick,this time the ball in was headed wide by Luke.More Shields pressure,starting with Brad to Luke who's great through found Paul,his well hit shot clattered off the post and Montagu cleared to safety.Strong defensive play by Liam,linking up well with Brad and Paulled to a long ball over the top saw Luke control cooly and his shot was just wide.Brad,s clever footwork fooled the fullback and drove forward,passing to Paul only to be denied by a great tackle.Against the run of play Montagu broke and with slack Shields defending gifted a goal.1-4.This seemed to silence Shields,with only one more effort by Paul from long range going wide before the final whistle.

FINAL SCORE 1-4

MANAGERS COMMENT

Today i did adopt a sweeper, but from the scoreline after 20 minutes, you wouldnt think so, however after positional changes it became a different game, what we did was compete, by that i mean we tackled strongly, we supported each other and played some very good football too. With a little more luck and composure in front of goal, this result could have been so different, picking out one player was not easy when for 45 minutes everyone and i mean subs too contributed, make no mistake the opposition were big and strong, but we have now shown how to compete against the best in our league,Bradley epitomised the spirit by doing something he would admit is not his strong point, and thats winning tackles, a will and desire to want to win is often more valuable that just size, and thats is why he gets my vote, along with some sublime footwork.show this commitment from now on in and we will win more that we lose !

M.O.M BRADLEY ELLWOOD

OPPOSITION M.O.M RYAN GARNETT

LONGBENTON v NORTH SHIELDS SUN 30th OCT 2011

FIRST HALF

Today saw second versus third and it was Longbenton who started the better of the two teams with flowing attacks down both flanks but with no end result.Shields had the first real chance when Ryan won the ball in midfield and pinged the ball crossfield to Luke but unfortunately his shot went over the bar.Soon after Longbenton had all the luck when a poor shot hit Scott,deflected and looped over Mattie and into the net.1-0.Longbenton quickly doubled there lead when a static shields defence watched the No9 latch onto a long ball and gave Mattie no chance.2-0.Shields tried to respond when Dan put Paul through but Longbenton put out for a corner,Brad put a great ball in but Longbenton defended well.Moments later the Shields defence were slow to react and Longbenton's striker slid the ball under mattie.3-0.Shields were under constant pressure, when the ball broke to the smallest player on the pitch,his shot fortunately for Shields hit the crossbar,soon after a smart one-two and a great back heel put the same player through but this time he made no mistake.4-0.Shields were struggling to get a shot on goal,however could of pulled one back when a great pass by Brad to Ryan who put Paul in,but the good strength of the centre back held him off and the ball ran through to the keeper.

SECOND HALF

Shields started the second half with a bit more va va voom and within minutes a great ball was met by Luke who controlled well and smashed home.4-1.The tactical change by Gordon pushing Scott from defence to midfield was paying dividends when a good combination with Luke saw Scott's shot go narrowly wide.James did a good one-two with Ryan and his ball to Luke under pressure was cooly slotted through the keepers legs,however play was pulled back with a delayed reaction from the referee ruling the ball had gone out earlier in the move meaning the goal was dis-allowed.This seemed to be a turning point in the game as Shields heads seemed to drop allowing Longbenton back into the match with a shot on goal however Liam was on hand to head off the line.James picked up a loose ball,drove forward,passed to Luke who saw his shot spilled by the keeper and Jordan was unable to force the rebound in.Shields were now on the backfoot,a long goal kick bounced over the defence and was smashed in to make it 5-1.Things got even worse in the dying minutes when Longbenton attacked down the left and a great ball in was blasted home from close range.

FINAL SCORE 6-1

MANAGERS COMMENT

i talked myself out of adopting a more defencive approach today by way of playing with a sweeper, and after 35 minutes i had the answer, too many balls in behind the defence and with quick forwards , we struggled to clear our lines,i could have made 11 subs at half time but with a complete new back four for the second half, and Scott/Luke pushed into more advanced roles yes things did improve and i agree that controversial dissalowed goal seemed to make a difference,but the cracks were their, For the next game against the league leaders, their will be no change of mind, a sweeper will be in place. My choice for mom today , although only playing one half, did the one thing i have been asking, for weeks and that is to tackle with your body behind the ball, yes james ended up eating turf each time against a bigger opponant , but each time the attack was stopped . The rest of you .. take heed. its that simple.Well done for making a game of it in the second half though.

MANAGERS MOM JAMES BILVERSTONE

OPP MOM SCOTT COATES

CRAMLINGTON TOWN V NORTH SHIELDS SUN 23RD OCTOBER (CUP MATCH)

FIRST HALF

Both sides found the conditions difficult with strong winds and driving rain but it was Cramlington who created the first chance when a poor tackle gave away a free kick,Shields defended well and Luke picked up the loose ball putting Dan through who cleverly lobbed the keeper only to see the goal ruled offside.From the goal kick Cramlington worked well down the wing putting in a great cross but luckily for Shields the shot was put wide.Responding well Shields won a corner,Brad and Luke linked up well before Luc's header looped into the keepers arms.Shields defense were playing the offside trap well however Cramlington managed to get another shot in which Matty was equal to.Cramlington were playing the high line but Shields broke through several times with Luc and Dan causing them trouble in the box.The warning signs were there for Shields earlier unfortunately this time Cramington converted,with a cross in from the left towards goal where their striker Cooley slotted the ball under Matty 1-0. From the restart Brad,Alex and Luc combined well to give Luke a chance but saw his shot go narrowly wide.Shields didn't have to wait long for an equaliser with a accurate through ball by Cameron to Luke who rounded the diving keeper to slot in 1-1.Moments later Ryan won a ball in midfield playing the perfect pass to Luke who cheekily lobbed the keeper to give Shields a 1-2 lead going into half time.

SECOND HALF

Shields started where they left off and this time it was Alex to supply the pin-point pass to Luke who battled shoulder to shoulder with Cramlingtons defender giving the keeper no chance, also giving him his well deserved hat-trick 3-1.Slight frustration by Cramlington produced two bad tackles on both Luke, Alex and Brad producing two yellow cards. Shields confidence was increasing minute by minute with commanding play down the right by Alex and Luke finally ending in another perfect goal by Luke 1-4.Luc battled hard winning the ball, striding forward then linking up well with Dan who's shot was caught by the keeper.Shields where putting Cramlington under constant pressure with another bit of brilliant passing starting from Ryan to Luc then finally finishing off well by Dan 1-5. Strong defensive play by both Callum and Cameron kept Matty quiet for the second half so far. Minutes after cutting out the Cramlington attack, Callum was in action again pushing forward ending with a shot on goal by Luke only to be foiled by the keeper.Dan twisted and turned cleverly past two defenders from the right smashing the cross in where a diving Jordon was on hand to head home 1-6.Shields won a free kick and from pin point accuracy, Dan was on fire slotting the ball under the keeper 1-7.The final action saw Cramlington have their first shot of the second half proving Shields defense were together, tight and focused throughout this half.

FINAL SCORE- 1-7

MANAGERS COMMENT.

After a first half when chances had been created a struggling Cramlington side had given us plenty to think about, to many times we turned into trouble and there was not enough use of wide areas on a big pitch , that said however we still went in a goal to the good on Cramlington and went on to dominate completely in the second half. we cant expect to win all games like this and we need to learn how to win tight games keep possession better and keep it tight at the back. Its second v third at the weekend with another away trip this time to Longbenton. so i guess we may have to see just that

M.O.M- LUKE SINCLAIR

OPPOSITION M.O.M- LUC CONNOR HARTLEY

In the early exchanges the first chance fell to Shields when Luke found Brad wide right and he cut in and shot into the side netting.Shields dominated possession although Prudhoe were defending well.Shields were having the edge up the right and a good run by Brad saw him put Luke in but his shot was narrowly wide. Prudhoe's first attack resulted in them winning a corner which was fortunately headed over.Shields responded with a quick throw to Alex who hit a great shot that somehow the keeper got his hands too,but Jordan was in the right place to slot home the rebound.0-1.Shields picked up the pace winning a corner from the kick off. The cross was cleared to Ryan well outside the box who hit a wicked overhead into the box which Dan bravely headed from close range 0-2.Prudoe looked certain to pull one back when their winger burst through but Mattie was on hand to pull off a great save.Shields pushed forward and Brad picked out Ryan who hit a fierce shot from long range against the bar and once again Jordan pounced to slot home the rebound 0-3. Shields increased their lead when a great defensive line caught Prudhoe offside,from the free kick Dan raced clear and gave the keeper no chance.0-4.More Shields pressure saw Cameron shoot just over and Prudhoe responded forcing a free-kick from which Mattie saved well.Shields attacked and Dan put a neat pass to Brad who responded with a neat one-two for Dan to slot home.0-5.More pressure saw Shields win another corner which Cameron played short to Brad who slipped it inside back to Cameron and his fierce left foot shot gave the keeper no chance.0-6.

NORTH SHIELDS v ALNWICK SUNDAY 02nd OCTOBER 2011

FIRST HALF

The early exchanges saw few chances with both sides giving away possession.Alnwick created the first chance but shot wide followed by another chance foiled by a good save at the strikers feet by matty.Shields responded and forced a corner and a good delivery by Brad saw Dean head against the crossbar.Dan then linked with Kyle who put Scott in but his shot was well saved.Shields pressed again and Jordan put a great through ball to Kyle and his fierce shot was palmed straight into the path of Dan for a tap-in. 1-0.Alnwick attacked from the kick-off and found their no10 unmarked for an easy equaliser. 1-1.From the kick-off a needless free kick gave Alnwick a great chance and they made no mistake. 1-2.Good work by Kyle forced a corner but Alnwick cleared and their no10 latched onto the long ball and neatly slotted home.1-3.Kyle once again showed great enthusiasm,chasing down a back-pass and neatly tucked the ball into the corner.2-3.Shields worked down the left and Brads cross found Kyle who set up Jordan and his shot went just wide.Just as we began to look in control another mistake let in their no10 who's clinical finish gave Matty no chance.Kyle was leading the comeback and after sustained pressure he showed great strength to volley home and narrow the gap.3-4.From the kick-off Paul hit a good shot that was blocked and Brad was unlucky when he hit the rebound on the half volley only to see his shot blocked when the keeper was beaten.Shields maintained the pressure and shots by Paul and Jordan were well saved before Paul hit a superb volley to send us in at half time all square at 4-4.

SECOND HALF

Shields made a promising start and created a chance for Dan but he shot wide.Alnwick were then awarded a penalty when there best player by far (no10) went down in the box and he converted to give them the lead 4-5.From the re-start a long ball once again saw their no10 race clear and score.4-6.Moments later Dan fed Jordan who hit a great cross for Kyle to head home.5-6.A great hat-trick.Once again Alnwicks no10 showed great pace and accurate finishing to make it 5-7 and soon after latched onto another long ball to give Alnwick a safe lead and all 3 points.

Alnwicks no10 certainly had a day to remember scoring 7 of their 8 goals.We simply had no answer to his pace and clinical finishing.

Mangers Comment.

Not much to comment, in fact a little speechless is how i felt after witnessing this, how can we score 5 and end up loosing, i refuse to blame keeper,defence,mid and attack, the problem is collectively, the supply to no 10 was not cut out and he managed to get on the end of everything, this was most definitely the complete centre forward performance, we could not cope and again we can only come back so many times in games, there will be a change in formation and positions on Sunday when we are in cup action away at Willington Quay.We simply cant concede like this on a regular basis and hope to win matches!

FINAL SCORE 5-8

MANAGERS MOM KYLE HENRY

OPPOSITION MOM KYLE HENRY

NORTH SHIELDS v WALKER CENTRAL SUNDAY 25th SEPT 2011 CUP GAME

FIRST HALF

Walker started brightly and soon had Shields under pressure and took the lead,their No 14 was given far to much time and space and hit a fierce left foot shot into the top corner.0-1.They soon doubled their lead in controversial circumstances.Shields were pressing but a poor final ball gave Walker the chance to counter.A long ball was collected and slotted home but the linesman ruled offside and the referee said clearly NO GOAL.After loads of verbal complaints from the opposition coaches the referee changed his decision and the goal stood.0-2.From the kick-off Shields seemed shell shocked and Walker went straight on the attack and made it 3-0.A poor start for Shields.It was almost four-nil but matty produced a great save from a headed attempt.At last Shields looked lively and Kyle and Luke worked down the right ending with Luke's shot being saved.Walker responded but looked looked to have no chance until a mistake at the back put them clear,fortunately Cameron read the danger and his well timed tackle saved the day.Luke and Kyle linked well again down the right and this time the chance fell to Kyle but his left foot shot went just over.Walker pressed again and only a goal line clearance by scott stopped them increasing their lead.Moments later Walker's No14 showed the strength of his left foot with a fierce shot into the corner.0-4.Shields best move of the half came when Luke won a great 50/50 tackle in midfield,he fed Brad on the left who in turn found Cameron and his pull back was hit just over by Ryan.Walker responded but Dean was showing good strength at centre back and headed clear.Walker came forward again and only a great save by Matty prevented the No14 from securing his hat-trick.The last chance of the half came from Shields when Luke set up a chance for Paul but his shot went wide.

SECOND HALF

Shields started the better with Brad and Kyle combining well down the left to create a chance for Scott but his shot went over the bar.Cameron and Kyle linked up well to create a further chance but the Walker keeper saved well.Shields were much improved and working the left side well.Brad and Kyle split the defence and a great cross to Luke was well controlled and laid off to Scott but his shot was blocked,the rebound fell to Kyle but his shot went over.Shields continued to press and good work by Brad gave Kyle a chance only for the keeper to pull-off a great save.Walker responded and a fabulous fingertip save by Matty saved Shields.The away side picked up the pace and slick passing saw them increase their lead with a shot that gave Matty no chance.0-5.Shields were unlucky when Luke saw the keeper tip his shot onto the cross bar.Walker made it 0-6 when a corner was whipped in and a unmarked player headed home.Walker now had the upper hand again and a quick attack down the right produced another goal.0-7.Ryan and brad combined to put Luke through,his great ball to Dan was smashed home from a tight angle.1-7.From the kick-off Shields won a free kick which was passed to Luke who hit a unstoppable shot from all of 35 yards into the net.2-7.Shields were playing with confidence now and when Luke and Paul caused panic in the Walker defence,Luc was on hand to bundle the ball in.3-7.Walker had the final say when a fierce shot gave Matty no chance.8-3.

Walker were the better side and it was disappointing to witness the poor sporting behaviour of their linesman/coach.He was abusive ,far to vocal and continually walking on the pitch trying to influence the referee.When Shields had a player needing treatment he screamed "PLAY ON" which demonstrated the lack of regard he had for fair play.This is exactly the sort of behavior thats needs to be stamped out and we look to referee's to be firm on this aspect.

FINAL SCORE 3-8

Managers Comment.

A warning to the team took place 5 minutes before ko. "close down quick" "defend strong, that includes the midfield" and "chase down all loose balls" , what happens 0-4 in 15 minutes. ok 2 were very dubious offsides, but the other 2 , and 1 of them occured in the first minute, now i either talk a different language or no one was listening. Ok rant over, for the rest of the game we competed on a par and created enough chances of our own to narrow the margin, altough Matty was called upon many times and showed his considerable shot stopping prowerse. The second half in particular showed great character to only loose by 1 and what entertainment for the neutural.It was end to end . One less cup, but less fixture pile up. Alnwick town in league next week.Oh and i concur with our reporters comments at the end of the report !

MANAGERS MOM MATTY SMITH

OPPOSITION MOM SCOTT COATES

SUN 18TH SEPT NORTH SHIELDS v WALLSEND COMMUNITY

FIRST HALF

The first 5 minutes saw neither side create any chances with both giving the ball away cheaply.Wallsend forced the first corner which was dealt with easily and Shields broke well when Jordan fed Alex down the right who made a good run and cross for Dan to force a save from the keeper.Shields stepped up the pace and Brad controlled a long pass before beating one player and hitting a pin-point pass to Kyle who finished in style to make it 1-0.Kyle was involved soon after when he robbed the ball from the Wallsend centre back and hit a good cross which no-one could convert.Kyle was starting to dominate the midfield and he sent Alex away whose's line ball found Luke,and he hit a great cross which Dan put just wide.Pressure from Kyle forced a corner which Brad fired in across the face of goal and somehow no one got a touch.Wallsend responded and created a chance for themselves but Matty was confident in dealing with the shot.Shields pushed again and when Dan found Luke he showed great touch and hit a fierce volley just wide.Shields pressure paid off when Alex found Kyle who hit a great pass to Luke who volleyed home.2-0.From the kick off Scott hit a great long ball to Kyle who put in Dan but his shot was easily saved.Shields soon increased their lead when Alex made a great run down the right ,and when the keeper failed to handle his fierce cross ,Jordan was on hand to tap in.3-0.

SECOND HALF

Shields pressed from the start and Brad was busy down the left,he collected a ball wide and cutting inside past 2 players before forcing a save from the keeper.More Shields pressure paid off when Dan found Luke who showed great pace to race clear and fire low into the corner 4 - 0. In a rare Wallsend attack a defensive mix up let in Wallsend to narrow the gap.4-1.This lifted Wallsend and they pressed well and should have scored but fortunately shot wide.Shields looked nervous and for the first time were under sustained pressure and when a bad throw in put Wallsend clear, they looked certain to score until a great last ditch tackle from Scott saved the day.Luc was on in midfield and put a great pass to Luke creating a chance but the shot went wide.Shields got their second wind and Ryan put a great ball to Paul who's shot was well saved.Once again a lapse in concentration put Wallsend clean through but Scott again appeared from nowhere and made a great tackle.Shields attacked up the right and Ryan put a lovely pass to Paul who's cross found Luc who's volley produced a great save.Paul was involved soon after and his pinpoint cross found Dan who shot home.5-1.From the kick off Luc showed good skill lifting a ball over the defence and only a last gasp clearance saved Wallsend.The away team should of pulled one back when Shields lost possession too easily and somehow the Wallsend attack could not convert a perfect cross.More Shields pressure saw Luke shoot just wide and when Dan was given a great chance,one touch too many meant he was closed down.Shortly after Luke hit a great volley which produced a great save causing confusion in the box, eventually the ball fell to Cameron 5 yards out but he somehow hit it over the bar.Luc,Dan and Luke linked up well in the final minute and Shields almost made it six but settled for a good 5-1 win.

FINAL SCORE 5-1

Managers Comment.

another win on the march up the table and five more goals, good performances today from Dan who was always lively and after a shaky start Scott , showing great pace today, to avert dangerous situations. we did though take our foot off the peddle in the second half and our opposition could sense it, we also squandered a number of good openings in the second half as well as chances. Cant complain though as contributions were all over the pitch. I have said before this is a squad game and everyone needs to contribute and that i am pleased to say is happening, this also means i can rest legs and not have to push players to stay on when they receive knocks. keep up the hard work, next game v Div 2 opposition in the cup, Walker central.

MANAGERS M.O.M DAN LAIDLER OPPOSITION M.O.M LUKE SINCLAIR

For the second consecutive home game,conditions were blustery to say the least.The first real attack came from the left where Paul put in a great cross only to be cleared by the Prudhoe defence.Brad took the corner which. Dean latched onto it well but the shot was blocked.Moments later Luke picked up the ball in midfield and drove at the Prudhoe defence sliding a great ball through to Kyle who's shot was saved well by the Prudhoe keeper.From the resulting goal kick Dean controlled well putting a great ball through to Paul who made no mistake to open the scoring 1-0.Shields domination resulted in Prudhoe only being able to kick long balls towards the Shields goal where Matty was always alert and in control.Shields pressed again when Luke slotted a ball to Kyle who smashed the ball home giving the keeper no chance 2-0.Almost straight from the kick off the same combination made it 3-0 when Luke's pinpoint cross from the right reached Kyle who cooly slotted the ball past the keeper.Shields were rampant by now and soon increased their lead when a great pass by Alex to Paul who hammered the ball home to make it 4-0.Minutes before half time Kyle was involved again feeding a great ball to Paul who pushed the ball past the keeper for his hat-trick.

Prudhoe rallied after half time and saw a shot on goal go just wide.Shields had been solid in defence up until now but a lack of concentration let in the Prudhoe striker but luckily for athletic his shot went over the bar.Soon after Cameron fed Brad who's pinpoint cross was met by Kyle to head home for his well deserved hat-trick 6-0.It was Camerons turn to get himself a goal when a great one,two with Kyle saw him slot the ball under a diving keeper from a narrow angle 7-0.Dan not long after coming on made it 8-0,Shields went further ahead when a Prudhoe defender gave away a free kick,Dean stepped up and played a clever ball to Luc who controlled,turned and blasted into the net 9-0.From a rare Prudhoe attack which fizzled out, Cameron brought the ball out of defense,passed to Dan who placed the ball past the keeper 10-0.In the dying minutes Brad drove in from the right with a cracking shot bringing out a great save by the keeper.Again Brad drove forward and blasted a shot which had the keeper beaten only to cannon off the crossbar.

Conditions were difficult and the first 5 minutes saw both sides coming to terms with a strong wind making control difficult.The first chance fell to Shields when a long kick from keeper Matty was controlled by Paul but his shot went over the bar.Brad and Kyle were linking well down the right and good interplay forced a corner.Brad whipped in a corner which was half cleared and Callum picked up the ball 25 yards out and drilled home an unstoppable shot.1-0.Shields almost increased their lead soon after when a great turn and pass from Brad put Paul clear only for the keeper to make a good save.Paul then put Jordan clear who's shot beat the keeper but hit the post.Paul was not to be denied when shortly after he latched onto a defensive mistake and hit a clever chip to make it a deserved 2-0 lead.From the kick off Longbenton won a free kick in a dangerous position and hit a great shot which produced an equally great save from Matty.Shields responded and pushed forward again and Luke chased what looked like a lost cause and won the ball near the left corner,his left foot volley from an impossible angle 25 yards out was a stunner and gave Longbenton keeper no chance 3-0.Shields won a corner which Cameron took short to Luke who's first time pinpoint cross was headed home by Paul 4-0.

Shields were now playing into a strong wind but showed no signs of easing up,Paul was in action again following great work by Cameron but shot over the bar.Ryan came off injured and was replaced by Dan.Shields pressed again and a great first time cross by Luke was met by Dan who volleyed just wide.Longbenton were given hope when Shields carelessly lost the ball and an attempted back pass fell short and gave the away team the easiest of goals.4-1.Shields rallied and a shot by Dan was well saved by the keeper.Dan had another chance well saved after smart work by Kyle and Cameron.Paul was next to go close when he pressured the centre back,won the ball and hit a great volley that was denied by the post.Although dominating the game Shields gave Longbenton real hope when from a throw in their own half and not under pressure a comedy of errors ended up with a simple tap in for the visitors.4-2.Luc came on for Callum.Longbenton pushed hard and only solid defending by Scott and Dean kept them out.Then yet again a no pressure situation was turned into a disaster,shields gave away a silly free kick on the edge of the box,the Longbenton player hit a fierce shot which took an unfortunate deflection to make it 4-3.The last 5 minutes saw a anxious Shields hang on to a deserved victory.

SAT 4TH SEPT 2011 - NEWCASTLE WESTGATE 4 - 2 NORTH SHIELDS ATHLETIC

1ST HALF

First league game of the season and Shields started brightly with Kyle winning the ball in midfield and a pinpoint pass put Luke through who shot narrowly wide.Shields switched the attack to the right and Brad hit a great cross only to be put behind for a corner.Westgate continued to attack and the pressure paid off.Shields failed to clear the ball after confusion in defence and Westgates midfielder was unmarked and unchallenged when he hit a fierce shot into the top corner from 30 yards out 1-0.Shields responded and good interplay between Luke and Cameron forced a corner.Westgate cleared and went straight on the attack forcing a corner themselves.Shields cleared but soon after were caught out again when a speculative long ball found Westgates striker who one on one cooly slotted home 2-0.Westgate grew in confidence and continued to press but Luke snubbed out their next attack and put a great ball to Brad who controlled well and shot narrowly over from a difficult angle.Westgate responded and attacked down the right and a great ball in was met by a Westgate player who ghosted in and smashed home from close range 3-0.Shields responded and Luke's shot was turned round the post by the keeper for a corner.Shields continued to press and Kyle threaded a good ball to Brad on the right who put in a great cross but Westgate cleared well.Kyle was in action again and made a strong run through the middle before finding Luke on the left.Lukes cross was only half cleared and Kyle latched onto the loose ball and smashed home from 20 yards.A deserved goal that lifted spirits just before half time 3-1.

2ND HALF

Alex and James were substituted and replaced by Dean and Paul.Shields looked much brighter and pressed from the off and should have scored but for a controversial decision.Shields were pressing and picked up a ball on the dead ball line,the opposition believed the ball to be out of play but neither the referee nor linesman gave the ball out.The ball was slotted to Paul who drilled home.After appeals by the Westgate players their linesman decided to rule the ball out of play and the referee ruled the goal out.A bizarre incident that summed up their linesmans whole performance.Westgate pressed but great defending by Scott started a counter attack.Ryan collected the ball in midfield and put a good pass to Luke who raced to the byline and put in a great cross for Paul to slot home from close range 3-2.Jordan was substituted and luc came on.Shields pushed for the equaliser and good interplay between Kyle and Luc forced a corner from which Dean saw his effort go just over the bar.Callum then put a great through ball to Kyle whos shot went just wide.Westgate almost increased their lead shortly afterwards when a great cross ran across the face of goal-a lucky escape.Just when hopes were high for an equaliser Shields were undone again by a long ball which was collected by the Westgate striker who hit a precise lob from the edge of the box giving matty no chance 4-2.The last action of the game saw the industrious Kyle dribble through and shoot narrowly wide.

FINAL SCORE-Westgate 4 North Shields 2.

Managers comment- Same old same old!-we conceed three early goals and make our task impossible!

MANAGERS M.O.M- KYLE HENRY OPPOSITION M.O.M-LUKE SINCLAIR