South Shields FC Supporters Association

05-Nov-2011 Consett 4 South Shields 3

2011-12-24T21:14:00.003Z

1 - Cunningham
2 - Smith
3 - Talbot
4 - Scope
5 - Bell
6 - Chapim
7 - Wightman
8 - Barclay
9 - Ramsey
10 - Fitzpatrick
11 - Colvin

12 - Kirkup
13 - Rodenby
14 - Burnell
15 - Morris
16 - Anzevui

The home side started slightly the brighter of the teams and were first to threaten when Burrell burst through from midfield on 7 minutes, however instead of squaring for the wide open Michael MacKay he chose to shoot and his effort was blocked.

Mackay wasn't to be denied however and only a minute later he latched onto a long Harrison

Davies ball and although his shot was well blocked by Jamie Scope the ball continued it's path towards the goal and the combined efforts of Scope and keeper Jake Cunningham could only help it over the line.

The lead was short lived though as Shields equalised with their first attack of note on 11 minutes. Full back Barrie Smith found himself in an advanced position on the right wing and his searching cross found the head of Stephen Ramsey and although Barry Poskett made a good save from the centre forward, David Colvin was on hand to finish the rebound from no more than 5 yards.

A high scoring game looked on the cards with both sides looking shaky at the back and sure enough on 17 minutes Harrison Davies again played Michael MacKay clean through on goal and the in form striker buried his shot in the bottom right hand corner.

Mackay scores Consett's second

South Shields did come back into the game and 5 minutes before the break Stephen Ramsey twice headed just wide in the space of 60 seconds but Consett went into the break 2-1 up.

Fitzy holds off the challenge

The second half started quite flatly but it burst into life on 53 minutes with a goal from Dale Burrell to make it 3-1. Davies gained possession and was able to advance further than he should have been able due to defenders backing off. Davies squared to Burrell 30 yards out and the midfielder promptly smashed the ball into the top right corner.

It was almost 4-1 on 57 minutes when Walton fired in a shot from 12 yards that hit the bar.

Consett seemed content to sit on their lead at this point and Shields began to dominate possession and noticeably grow in confidence. The Steelmen started to look nervous in defence and the inevitable happened on 72 minutes when after numerous failed attempts to clear their lines, Jonny Wightman sent in a cross from the right hand side and David Colvin doubled his tally for the aftenoon with a neat volleyed finish.

Just as it looked as though the home side could be in for a torrid final period, Robson hit a diagonal pass to Hutchinson and just as the wideman looked as though he was about to shoot, he cut the ball back to Walton, who, with the help of a post, made no mistake to make it 4-2 on 75 minutes.

Consett finally looked as though they would see the game out in comfort and although Shields got a third in the third minute of stoppage time through a looping Lee Bell header, there was barely time to kick off again and an entertaining game finished 4-3 to the home side.

31-Oct-2011 Gateshead 3 South Shields 0

2011-12-24T20:16:00.000Z

1 - Ball
2 - Smith
3 - Talbot
4 - Scope
5 - Bell
6 - Chapim
7 - Morris
8 - Barclay
9 - Ramsey
10 - Burnell
11 - Wightman

12 - Galas
14 - Cunningham
15 - Fitzpatrick

South Shields made the trip to the International Stadium for this Durham Challenge Cup match against Gateshead and the new management team can take plenty of heart from the performance.

Shields made a positive start and took the game to their hosts, and within the space of just a few minutes had carved out a number of chances.

Firstly Lee Bell went close in the 15th minute and on 18 minutes an effort was cleared off the Gateshead line as Shields continued to apply pressure on the home defence. Only a couple of minutes later Ramsey came close to giving the Mariners the lead but his header was inches wide of the target.

Gateshead went close on 25 minutes but a header was directed straight at Jonny Ball and on 32 minutes it was Shields back on the offensive as Denver Morris cut in and took a shot that went narrowly past the post.

A mistake in the Shields defence in the 38th minute saw Nathan Fisher turn his man and fire Gateshead into the lead against the run of play.

Shields were quickly into their stride again and Jonny Wightman's free kick brought out a fine fingertip save from Deasy in the Gateshead goal.

Right on half time Morris then went close with a header following a cross from Barrie Smith.

As the second half got under way Gateshead applied pressure on Shields in search of a second goal and the second goal duly arrived in the 75th minute when Nathan Fisher was allowed to run at the defence and was given too much space and Shields paid the price as Fisher fired the ball into the net.

Shields were forced into making two substitutions as both Jonny Ball and Stephen Ramsey picked up injuries. Jake Cunningham and Yanis Galas being their replacements.

Cunningham was soon called into action as he pulled off a great save in the 80th minute to deny Gateshead as their fitness was by this stage a telling factor. Gateshead eventually scored a third right on time after the Shields defence failed to clear the ball.

Although the scoreline was a convincing one, Shields can take heart from the fact that they played their part in an entertaining game and a very good first half.

29th Oct-2011 South Shields 1 Shildon 2

2011-12-24T17:57:00.012Z

1 - Ball
2 - Smith
3 - Talbot
4 - Scope
5 - Kirkup
6 - Chapim
7 - Morris
8 - Brabbs
9 - Burnell
10 - Sweeney
11 - Wightman

12 - Ramsey
13 - Bell
14 - Galas
15 - Coe
16 - Cunningham

Pre-Match Gathering

Group Huddle

Jon Kings first game as manager of South Shields ended in disappointment as his side went down 2-1 against Shildon at Filtrona Park on Saturday.

Sean Sweeney had the first opportunity of the game for the home side following a good through ball by Wightman. Sweeney was one on one with the keeper before unleashing a shot that was well saved by Molyneux in the Shildon goal.

Sweeney tries the chip

Taking on allcomers

Shildon took the lead on 32 minutes when a long ball downfield was met by Gredziak, who although appearing offside, ran through to beat Jonny Ball in the Shields goal.

Shaping To Strike

And Shildon doubled their lead on 41 minutes when a free Kick downfield found Gredziak in the box who turned and laid the ball for Hughes to put the ball over the line.

Flying Tackle

The second half started slowly and it took the home side 20 minutes to create their first opportunity when Sean Sweeney struck the ball from 12 yards, but he was unable to get enough power on the ball.

Chapim Plays Twister

Shildon were to then have a goal disallowed on 70 minutes for a foul on Jonny Ball.

South Shields had loud claims for a penalty on 73 minutes for handball, but the referee waved the protests away.

Shields began to put the pressure on the Shields goal as the game entered its closing stages.

I'll take it from here!

On 84 minutes, Jonny Wightman ran at the defence before unleashing a shot from 20 yards which was well saved by Molyneux.

A minute later, a free kick taken by Wightman found the head of Jamie Scope who directed a head goalwards which was again saved by Molyneux.

Dan Kirkup was moved up front to support Tony Burnell and he was to make an instant impression, turning and shooting on the half volley, but the giant defender couldn't get enough power behind his shot.

Substitute Yanis Galas then had the ball in the back of the net, but his goal was disallowed for offside.

Galas Tries His Luck

The Mariners did grab a goal in the dying seconds when Dan Kirkup slammed the ball home from close range after a cross from the left landed at his feet in the box.

Kirkup fires home

22-Oct-2011 Billingham Town 5 South Shields 2

2011-12-24T17:23:00.003Z

1 - Ball
2 - Smith
3 - Talbot
4 - Scope
5 - Kirkup
6 - Chapim
7 - Morris
8 - Fitzpatrick
9 - Benjamin
10 - Ramsey
11 - Barclay

12 - Wightman
13 - Briggs
14 - Southern
15 - Brabbs
16 - Cunningham

South Shields are out of the FA Vase after being comprehensively beaten at Billingham Town on Saturday.

Billingham took an early lead following a mistake in the Shields defence allowed Jamie Owens to hit a superb strike low into the net from 20 yards.

Stephen Ramsey had a chance to equalise within a minute but his strike was well blocked by the Billingham defence.

Shields best chance of the opening exchanges came on 14 minutes when a ball from Paul Talbot found Alex Benjamin who shot from 20 yards with a low curling drive that was just wide of the post.

Jamie Owens had the chance to double his goal tally with a header from 6 yards, but the Billingham number 10 put his effort wide of the post.

But Owens didn't have to wait long to grab his second goal when a misplaced pass by Dan Kirkup allowed Jamie Owens through. He put it under Jonny Ball to grab his second.

Just before half time, a free kick into the box was headed down by Dan Kirkup for Jonny Wightman, but his shot was over the bar.

Billingham made it 3-0 on 57 minutes following a corner which was driven in and met by the head of Nicky Martin who rose unchallenged to beat Jonny Ball in goal.

And the home side made it 4 - 0 five minutes later. Barry Smith brought down Nicky Martin in the box and the penalty was duly converted by Jamie Owens for his hat-trick.

It took Billingham only 1 minute to add a fifth goal with a superb 30 yard strike from Richard Walker into the top right hand corner of the Shields net.

Shields pulled a goal back on 66 minutes with a long range effort from Denver Morris that curled into the top right hand corner of the Billingham net.

Ten minutes later, Shields pulled another goal back on 75 minutes when a foul on Morris in the box allowed Alex Benjamin to convert from the penalty spot.

And Shields almost grabbed a third five minutes from time when some good skill by Wightman created a chance on goal for himself before unleashing a strike that hit the post and went out of play.

19-Oct-2011 - Newton Aycliffe 1 South Shields 4

2011-12-23T20:17:00.002Z

1 - Ball
2 - Smith
3 - Talbot
4 - Scope
5 - Kirkup
6 - Barclay
7 - Morris
8 - Fitzpatrick
9 - Benjamin
10 - Ramsey
11 - Chapim

12 - Wightman
13 - Briggs
14 - Galas
15 - Southern
16 - Parkin

South Shields put in a superb performance at high flying Newton Aycliffe last night to claim their first away victory in a 4-1 win for Gary Steadmans men.

Shields started brightly and they were to be rewarded early on when a strong run down the left from Alex Benjamin on three minutes created the space to pass across the face of goal for Stephen Ramsey to finish.

Shields doubled their lead on 29 minutes when a free kick taken from the right by Paul Talbot beat everyone in the box, including the keeper, and the ball went straight into the bottom of the net.

It took 37 minutes for the home side to create their first chance when a long ball was played downfield for Gardner to chase, and he unleashed a strike from 20 yards that rattled the Shields crossbar.

On the stroke of half time Alex Benjamin scored a contender for goal of the season. Picking the ball up on the half way line the number 9 looked up, noticed the keeper off his line, and last seasons league top scorer struck a superb effort that went over the keeper and into the back of the net.

The second half was more of an even contest as the home side tried to get back into the game.

Jonny Ball pulled off a number of fine saves in an attempt to keep a clean sheet, but on 77 minutes Newton Aycliffe pulled one back through John Close following a scramble in box.

But Shields were to put the victory beyond doubt in injury time as Alex Benjamin displaced the keeper who had again ventured outside the box and cooly spotted the ball in to grab his second goal.

Gary Steadman's side will aim to make it back to back away victories when they travel to Billingham Town in the FA Vase on Saturday.

15-Oct-2011 - Guisborough Town 3 South Shields 1

2011-12-23T20:07:00.004Z

1 - Ball
2 - Smith
3 - Talbot
4 - Scope
5 - Kirkup
6 - Brabbs
7 - Southern
8 - Barclay
9 - Benjamin
10 - Ramsey
11 - Galas

12 - Chapim
13 - Morris
14 - Fitzpatrick
15 - Wightman
16 - Briggs

SOUTH Shields are still looking for their first victory away from home after a disappointing 3-1 reverse at Guisborough.

The first 10 minutes saw the Mariners pushing for the first goal and putting the hosts defence under severe pressure. Yanis Galas whose running was causing problems for the defence found himself up against Wood and as he tripped the referee pointed to the penalty spot on 11 minutes which Alex Benjamin converted to register his 9th League goal this season.

The advantage only lasted five minutes, however, as Guisborough restored parity when Blythway floated a free-kick into the Shields box and Johnson reacted quickest to head in from close range.

And the hosts were soon ahead when the industrious Blythway raced through the Shields defence from 30 yards out to the edge of the 6 yard box before firing past Jonny Ball.

The goal lifted the home side, and it was 3-1 on 36 minutes when Onions had a shot blocked but the ball went into the net off the head of Shields defender Kirkup. Benjamin thought he had reduced the deficit right on half time but his effort was chalked off for a foul on the keeper in the build-up.

From the start of the second half, Shields were camped in the Guisborough half, but despite a series of six consecutive corners the Guisborough defence held firm as Dan Kirkup, Barrie Smith and David Southern all had attempts on goal cleared off the line.

Had they scored, South Shields would very much have had the momentum and may have gone on to secure at least a point from the game. But on several occasions, the ball was scrambled away and shots went narrowly wide. The real turning point was when Goalkeeper Norton somehow spooned the ball over the bar as he flung himself down low,

With 15 minutes left, a superb save by Ball denied Onions, but the keeper then kicked out at the striker and was shown a red card, with defender Kirkup having to go in goal.

Andrew Barclay then headed onto the roof of the net as Shields tried unsuccessfully to get back into the game.

08-Oct-2011 - South Shields 5 Stokesley SC 2

2011-12-08T20:36:00.020Z

1 - Ball
2 - Smith
3 - Talbot
4 - Kirkup
5 - Scope
6 - Barclay
7 - Brabbs
8 - Southern
9 - Benjamin
10 - Ramsey
11 - Morris

12 - Chapim
13 - Galas
14 - Wightman
15 - Fitzpatrick
16 - Briggs

South Shields defeated bottom club Stokesley convincingly at Filtrona Park on Saturday, picking up a valuable three points and some much needed confidence.

The first chance of the game fell to Alex Benjamin on six minutes, when he was played through on goal and struck the ball low and hard, but Hutchinson in the visitors goal saved well.

But the Shields number 9 was not to be denied a second time when on ten minutes he was played through again, this time making no mistake with a low shot past Hutchinson to put the home side into an early lead.

Hush your mouth

Southern battles

Denver Morris

And Benjamin thought he had doubled his tally five minutes later after getting on the end of a Stephen Ramsey cross and tapping the ball over the line, but the goal was disallowed for offside.

In the net but ruled out

The second goal wasn’t far away though as defender Jamie Scope collected the ball from a corner, his first shot was blocked by the defence, but he was provided with a second attempt and hit it straight down the middle of Hutchinson’s goal to score his first goal for the club.

Scope celebrates the second goal

Stokesley looked more comfortable attacking than they did defending, and striker Indy was played through before shooting low but his attempt was saved superbly by Jonny Ball in the Shields goal.

The visitors were then awarded a free kick on 25 minutes, which was taken by full back Holbrook, who beat the Shields wall with his strike, but Ball was again able to meet it.

Denver Morris, making his first start for South Shields was causing the Stokesley full backs plenty of problems with his electric pace and on 33 minutes, his cross from the left was met by the head of Benjamin, but his effort was wide of the target.

Denver shows his pace

Benjamin then became provider, switching the play to David Southern who ran at the defence before unleashing a low curling shot that went wide of the goal.

Flying save

Fierce Competitor

Benjamin then went close to adding a third not once, twice but three times on 42 minutes, but he was unable to get enough power behind the ball to beat Hutchinson.

Benjamin flies high

After the break, Shields upped the tempo of their play.

Ramma goes close

On 52 minutes, Man of the Match David Southern produced some great skill before delivering a perfect cross that was headed home by Andrew Barclay to make it 3-0 to Gary Steadman’s men.

Barclay heads the third

And two minutes later it was 4-0, when David Southern struck a superb long range effort that went straight into the roof of the net.

Davey Southern celebrates

Shields made it 5-0 on 62 minutes, when a looping cross from Barrie Smith on the right found the head of Benjamin who out jumped Hutchinson to grab his second goal of the game.

Lean Times

Shields continued to dominate and pressurise the Stokesley goal, and after being awarded a free kick on the edge of the penalty area, David Southern stepped up and hit a curling shot that came back off the post.

Yanis foiled

Ten minutes before the end, Stokesley pulled one back through Porritt after some indecision in the Shields defence.

Ramma first again

On 88 minutes, a superb half volley from Simon Fitzpatrick was saved well by Hutchinson, but on the stroke of full time Stokesley were to grab another goal when substitute Robinson headed home from a corner to make the score 5-2.

Eyes on the ball

That was how the game was to finish, and Gary Steadman will be pleased with his team’s performance and will hope they can take confidence into the Tuesdays game with Whitley Bay, which takes place at Filtrona Park with a 7.30pm kick off.

04-Oct-2011 - South Shields 0 Esh Winning 1

2011-12-08T20:31:00.003Z

1 - Cunningham
2 - Smith
3 - Talbot
4 - Kirkup
5 - Scope
6 - Brabbs
7 - Southern
8 - Barclay
9 - Benjamin
10 - Ramsey
11 - Chapim

12 - Burnell
13 - Fitzpatrick
14 - Morris
15 - Briggs
16 - Ball

South Shields were knocked out of the league cup tonight, going down 1-0 to Esh Winning at Filtrona Park.

The first attempt of the game fell to the home side, when a cross from the right by Andrew Brabbs found the head of Alex Benjamin, but the number 9 cleared the bar with his attempt.

On four minutes, the visitors provided an early scare for Gary Steadmans men when John Jury struck the crossbar with a 30 yard drive.

And it was Esh Winning who were to take the lead on 15 minutes when Chris Smith hit a superb 25 yard effort that dipped late and came down off the crossbar into the back of Jake Carmichaels net.

Most of the pressure from the home side was coming from the right hand side with Barrie Smith and David Southern again linking well.

On 31 minutes, a cross from Man of the Match Barrie Smith found the head of Andrew Barclay in the box, but his effort was saved well by the keeper.

And three minutes later it was David Southern’s turn. The former Gateshead man cut inside before unleashing a 20 yard curling effort that was marginally wide of the post.

The visitors should have doubled their lead just before the break when a cross from the right found Darren Kokes in the box, but he was unable to get enough power behind his shot and Cunningham saved well.

Alex Benjamin was replaced at half time by Tony Burnell and Shields started the second half brightly.

The first chance of the second half came on 49 minutes when a cross from Paul Talbot from the left found the head of David Southern but the attempt was wide of the target.

David Southern was then to become provider, crossing for Tony Burnell but his head was also wide of the post.

Shields were looking more comfortable on the ball in the second half and on 66 minutes some excellent build up play eventually found debutant Denver Morris, signed earlier in the week from Ryton and Crawcrook Albion in the box, but his shot was well saved by the keeper.

Shields continued to pressure in search of the all-important equaliser, and were to have two attempts cleared off the line in added time, but unfortunately the goal was not to come for The Mariners.

South Shields will hope to get their season back on track when they host strugglers Stokesley on Saturday in the STL Northern League Division 1 at Filtrona Park.

01-Oct-2011 - Bishop Auckland 2 South Shields 2

2011-11-22T00:40:00.009Z

1 - Ball
2 - Smith
3 - Rodenby
4 - Scope
5 - Kirkup
6 - Brabbs
7 - Southern
8 - Barclay
9 - Benjamin
10 - Ramsey
11 - Chapim

12 - Cunningham
13 - Burnell
14 - Galas
15 - Briggs
16 - Talbot

South Shields gained their first away point of the season with a battling 2-2 draw at Bishop Auckland.

Barrie Smith ensures it shall not pass

The goals all came in the opening period, with the Mariners twice leading, only to be quickly pegged back on both occasions.

Jamie Scope gets the block in

Jamie Scope headed a David Southern free-kick over the bar and Stephen Ramsey went close before Ramsey opned the scoring on 12 minutes, seizing on a bad backpass to round the goalkeeper and score.

Kirkup gets head & shoulders clear

The lead lasted just five minutes, former Mariner Chris Bell crossing for Adam McClane to head home.

Bishop's defence scrambles clear

Shields came again, and Dan Kirkup hit a post before they took the lead again when a brilliant Barrie Smith run and cross ended with Alex Benjamin nodding down for Southern to smash home.

Pick that one out!

But straight from the restart, Bishops were back on level terms through Bell as the Shields defence dozed.

Barclay competes

The second half was a scrappy afair, with neither side able to create too many clear-cut chances, and the game petered out to a draw.

27-Sep-2011 - South Shields 3 Tow Law Town 1

2011-11-22T00:37:00.002Z

1 - Ball
2 - Smith
3 - Rodenby
4 - Scope
5 - Kirkup
6 - Brabbs
7 - Southern
8 - Barclay
9 - Benjamin
10 - Ramsey
11 - Chapim

12 - McAvoy
13 - Briggs
14 - Galas
15 - Burnell
16 - Sweeney

South Shields picked up their second victory of the season, running out 3-1 winners against Tow Law at Filtrona Park tonight.

In a game of few chances, it was to be the home side who opened the scoring on 27 minutes. David Southern created space down the right hand side before delivering a low dangerous ball across the face of goal that was met by Andrew Barclay in the middle to tap home past the keeper.

And Shields were to score again 10 minutes later. Andrew Barclay was brought down on the edge of the box following a dangerous run at the visitors defence. David Southern stepped up and hit a superb curling free kick from 20 yards that went low into the bottom left of the Tow Law goal.

Benjamin was to have a goal ruled out for offside just before the break as the Mariners went in at half time two goals to the good.

The early exchanges in the second half again created few chances.

On 65 minutes, Chapim unleashed a curling shot from the edge of the box that was wide of the target after some good build up play from Gary Steadmans side.

Both teams were to pick up the pace in the final twenty minutes.

South Shields grabbed their third goal of the night on 70 minutes after a long kick downfield by keeper Jonny Ball, Stephen Ramsey won a brave header that played in leading scorer Alex Benjmain, who unleashed a stinging drive into the top of the visitors net form 12 yards.

Five minutes later, Tow Law were to reduce the advantage, Scott scoring low into the Shields net with a softly taken header.

Tow Law were to put the Shields defence under pressure late on but were unable to get a second goal.

Gary Steadman will have plenty of positives to take out of this game, including a strong debut for new centre half Jamie Scope, and he will hope his side continue their good run when they visit Bishop Auckland on Saturday.

24-Sep-2011 - South Shields 2 Birtley Town 1

2011-11-22T00:14:00.016Z

1 - Ball
2 - Fitzpatrick
3 - Rodenby
4 - Smith
5 - Kirkup
6 - Chapim
7 - Southern
8 - Barclay
9 - Benjamin
10 - Ramsey
11 - Talbot

12 - Cunningham
13 - Grant
14 - Briggs
15 - Burnell
16 - Sweeney

Birtley took control of the game early on and on 13 minutes, Dixon turned Kirkup before shooting from just outside the box, but his effort was wide of the target.

Rodenby stretches

Two minutes later, Dixon was again putting the home side under pressure when the big number 9 attempted to round Jonny Ball in the Shields goal, but the former Whitley Bay stopper was able to get down quickly to the ball and pull off an excellent save.

Ramma keeps them at bay

The Birtley pressure was to pay off on 18 minutes with a well taken strike from McIntosh, to beat Ball in the Shields goal.

Talbot gets the cross in

Shields were to create their first real opportunity of the game on 24 minutes when a free kick was played long by David Southern and met by the head of centre half Dan Kirkup, but the effort sailed over the bar.

Alex takes on allcomers

McIntosh went close to adding a second for Birtley on 26 minutes but Jonny Ball was able to deny the winger from doubling his tally.

Taking a close look

The last chance of the half fell to Shields substitute Mark Grant, who replaced the injured Simon Fitzpatrick following a tough challenge. Grant attempted a long range effort on 44 minutes that was high of the target.

It's mine!

The second half continued as the first half had ended with Shields struggling to find their rhythm.

Rodenby battles

Benjamin tries his luck

But with 20 minutes to go, Gary Steadman's men got back into the game. The ball was played into the box and Stephen Ramsey, making his first start following injury, jumped high with the keeper, beat him to the ball and headed the ball into the net. The referee awarded the goal despite the protests from the visiting players claiming a foul on the keeper.

Ramma gets the equaliser

The goal brought some much needed confidence to the Mariners and they dominated the closing exchanges. A cross from Benjamin on the left found Tony Burnell who headed the ball goalwards, but the keeper pulled off a great save to turn it round the post.

Smith never gives up

Moving into injury time, Shields continued to pressurise the Birtley defence. The Camping and Caravan Direct sponsored man of the match, Barrie Smith, skimmed the crossbar with a cross come shot.

Burnell gets the header in

And just when the home supporters thought their luck had ran out, up stepped number 9 Alex Benjamin. Michael Rodenby delivered a perfect ball from the left which landed at the feet of last seasons Northern League top scorer, who hit the ball low and hard from 12 yards to beat the keeper and complete a remarkable turnaround for Shields.

Alex tees it up

And dispatches it

A visit to Billingham Town awaits Gary Steadman's men in the next round of the competition, who return to league duty on Tuesday night when they entertain Tow Law at Filtrona Park with a 7.30pm kick off.

20-Sep-2011 - South Shields 3 Ryton & Crawcrook Albion 2

2011-11-22T00:09:00.003Z

1 - Ball
2 - Pearson
3 - Bell
4 - Smith
5 - Kirkup
6 - Chapim
7 - Galas
8 - Barclay
9 - Benjamin
10 - Burnell
11 - Southern

12 - Grant
13 - McAvoy
14 - Colvin
15 - Talbot
16 - Fitzpatrick

South Shields are through to the next round of the Durham Challenge cup after beating Ryton and Crawcrook Albion 3-2 in a hard fought game at Filtrona Park tonight.

The first chance of the game came for South Shields. Lee Bell delivered a cross from the left which was met by the head of Andrew Barclay, but his attempt was saved well by Curran in the Ryton and Crawcrook Albion goal.

The first goal of the game was to come for the visitors on 6 minutes, when a free kick delivered from the right came back off the bar and was eventually put away by Wilson following a scramble in the box.

David Southern, who was making his first start of the season for South Shields following injury, hit the post on 10 minutes as The Mariners looked to score an instant equaliser.

The first half was to create very few chances from both sides and Shields were unable to find their rhythm, with only midfielder Gilberto Chapim having a long range effort that was marginally wide of the target on 30 minutes.

The visitors were to double their lead on 34 minutes when a free kick taken from the left was met by the head of Atkinson, who looped the ball over goalkeeper Jonny Ball.

South Shields were to get back into the game five minutes later when Complete Sports Academy sponsored Man of the Match David Southern put the ball in the back of the net from 12 yards following a mistake by Curran in the Ryton and Crawcrook goal.

Manager Gary Steadman rang the changes at half time, introducing Simon Fitzpatrick and Shaun McAvoy to the game in place of Yanis Galas and Tony Burnell and it almost brought instant results when a cross from the right by McAvoy found the head of Fitzpatrick, but the attempt was wide of the target.

Benjamin was to curl a shot wide from 15 yards before David Southern found himself in acres of space in the box, but was unable to steer his head on target.

Shields were looking much stronger in the second half and were putting the pressure on the Ryton and Crawcrook defence.

On 71 minutes, it was to be David Southern again looking for the equaliser with a superb long range strike that was tipped over the bar by Curran for a corner.

The equaliser was to come soon after when the ball bobbled loose in the box and was picked up Shields number 9 Alex Benjamin, who coolly rounded Curran before slotting the ball home.

And in the final minutes of the game, a corner from David Southern was met by a towering header from centre half Dan Kirkup, who steered his effort low into Currans goal to clinch victory for The Mariners.

Gary Steadman will hope his side can build on this result, with Birtley Town next up at Filtrona Park on Saturday in the FA Vase.

17-Sep-2011 - South Shields 1 Billingham Town 5

2011-11-22T00:07:00.001Z

1 - Cunningham
2 - Pearson
3 - Bell
4 - Chapim
5 - Kirkup
6 - McAvoy
7 - Galas
8 - Barclay
9 - Benjamin
10 - Burnell
11 - Colvin

12 - Fitzpatrick
13 - Southern
14 - Grant

Shields boss Gary Steadman, opted for a 3-5-2 formation, with the returning Dan Kirkup playing with new boys Lee Bell and Michael Pearson at the back.

Shields started brightly, and it was the home side who created the first chance of the game when Alex Benjamin played a ball over the top for Tony Burnell, who struck the ball on the half volley, but his attempt was high and wide.

On 7 minutes, a corner by Yanis Galas was met by the head of Bell but his attempt was cleared off the line by the Billingham defence.

The Mariners went close again on 14 minutes, when a ball into the box was headed down by Burnell and volleyed goalwards by Andrew Barclay, but his attempt was wide of the goal.

But the all important first goal came for the visitors on 18 minutes when Norman ran with the ball into the box before delivering a dangerous cross across the face of goal for Martin to put past Cunningham.

But their lead didn't last long, when Chapim played a superb ball through for Benjamin, who, one on one with Briggs, cooly curls it into the bottom corner to equalise.

Both sides were to go close to a second, but it was to be Billingham who took their chance on 39 minutes, when Norman was again allowed to run into the box from the left, but this time he was able to score himself from a tight angle.

And three minutes later it was 3-1 to the Teesiders when a complete mixup in the Shields defence allowed Owens to capitalise and beat Cunningham from close range.

Galas went close with a superb turn and volley on the stroke of half time but it was well saved by Briggs.

The second half started badly for Gary Steadman's team, conceding a fourth within 5 minutes of the re-start when a long range effort from Arthur was saved by Cunningham but he was unable to keep hold of the ball and Owens was first to the rebound to grab his second goal of the game.

And it was to get worse for Shields when a corner, taken from the right was headed home by centre half Cosavella to make it 5-1 to Billingham.

The final insult was to come on 65 minutes when a reckless two footed challenge saw Tony Burnell given a straight red card and facing a three match ban, leaving Steadman without both Burnell and the injured Stephen Ramsey in the coming weeks.

This defeat leaves the management of Shields with some thinking to do in preparation for the Durham Challenge Cup tie with Ryton and Crawcrook Albion on Tuesday night at Filtrona Park.

13-Sep-2011 - South Shields 0 Newcastle Benfield 3

2011-11-22T00:05:00.004Z

1 - Cunningham
2 - Pearson
3 - Briggs
4 - Smith
5 - Roseby
6 - Brabbs
7 - Galas
8 - McAvoy
9 - Benjamin
10 - Burnell
11 - Chapim

12 - Grant
13 - Parkin
14 - Houshby
15 - Southern
16 - Colvin

South Shields were knocked out of the FA Cup tonight after going down 3-0 to Newcastle Benfield at a wind battered Filtrona Park.

The Mariners were struggling against the wind in the first half and it was the visitors who were to open the scoring on 12 minutes when a cross from the right was headed home into the top corner by former Shields winger Chris Feasey.

And Benfield could have made it 2-0 soon after, but a superb save from Cunningham denied them the chance to double their lead.

And Cunningham was again to be the man to deny Benfield when he tipped a stinging 30 yard drive from Anthony over the bar.

Shields began to Create some chances of their own despite the difficult conditions, McAvoy having an attempt that was well saved by Grainger and Benjamin putting his shot onto the roof of the net.

But on the half hour, Benfield were to get their second goal when a cross by Patterson from the left found Hurst, who beat Cunningham from just outside the penalty area with a well taken shot.

Gary Steadmans side improved following the second goal with number 9 Alex Benjamin twice going close, only to be denied by Grainger in the visitors goal.

Benfield created the final chance of the first half with a curling shot from Fenwick from 20 yards that was again saved well by edit.clothing sponsored Man of the Match for Shields Jake Cunningham.

Shields, backed by the wind in the second half, started the brighter and on 49 minutes, a free kick taken by McAvoy was met by the head of Roseby, but the attempt was wide of Graingers goal.

It was then the turn of winger Yanis Galas, who attempted a long range curling effort that was again just wide of the goal.

Benfield had one of their rare opportunities of the second half on 58 minutes when Kane was played in following a good through ball. He took a shot towards the near post but Cunningham saved well.

Summer signing Davey Southern was making his first appearance of the season for the Mariners after returning from injury, replacing McAvoy on 67 minutes and he was to make an immediate impact. Southern delivered a free kick from the right, which fell to Alex Benjamin in the box, but he blasted it over the bar from 6 yards.

Despite all the possession in the second half, it was to be the visitors who were to get the games third goal when a shot from 20 yards by Dodsworth beat Cunningham to ensure it would be Benfield who travelled to Bedlington Terriers on Saturday in the next round of the competition.

South Shields return to league duty on Saturday when they face Billingham Town at Filtrona Park, with a 3pm kick off.

10-Sep-2011 - South Shields 5 Billingham Synthonia 1

2011-10-18T23:06:00.016+01:00

South Shields picked up their first points of the season in emphatic style on Saturday as Gary Steadmans side defeated Billingham Synthonia 5-1 in front of a strong crowd at Filtrona Park.

Colvin gets there first

The first chance of the game came in the first minute from Alex Benjamin, but his low shot from 15 yards was safely caught by Moody.

Colvin shows his pace

Shields were awarded an early corner, which was taken by Yanis Galas and met by the head of debutant Lee Bell but Moody saved well to deny the former Dunston man a debut goal.

Colvin applying the pressure

The home sides pressure was to eventually result in the first goal. On 13 minutes, a good cross from David Colvin on the left found the head of Tony Burnell who beat Moody to put the Mariners in the lead.

Nobody's looking

It took 20 minutes for the visitors to create their first chance of the game with a long range effort from Crossen that was high and wide.

Yanis surges forward

On 34 minutes, a superb through ball by Andrew Barclay set Yanis Galas away, but the pacy winger was brought down in the box and the referee awarded South Shields a penalty. Defender Lee Bell stepped up and struck the ball with force straight down the middle of Moody's goal to double the Mariners lead.

Galas is upended

Bell makes no mistake from the spot

Andrew Barclay almost grabbed a third goal for Shields, with a strong run up the pitch from deep in midfield before unleashing a 30 yard drive that was just over Moody's bar.

Barclay strides clear

But Gary Steadman's men didn't have long to wait to get their third goal, and it came in some style on 39 minutes with a superb curling effort from 20 yards by Yanis Galas following some great link up play with Alex Benjamin.

Nothing the keeper can do as Yanis's shot flies in

Celebrate!

And Shields extended their lead further on 44 minutes when a mixup in the Billingham defence
allowed Alex Benjamin through one on one with Moody and the Mariners number 9 made no mistake to make the score 4-0.

Shields began the second half as they had finished the first, and it wasn't long before they had grabbed a fifth goal, when a good ball in from the right by Michael Pearson found Andrew Barclay in the box who slid in to beat Moody to open his account for Shields following his recent signing from Birtley.

Pearson gets in the cross

And Barclay despatches it for number five

Billingham pulled a goal back on 63 minutes with a superb long range effort from Hillerby to make it 5-1.

McAvoy battles to the end

That was how the game was to finish, and the result moves Shields from the foot of the table and now have their FA Cup replay with Newcastle Benfield to look forward to on Tuesday night
at Filtrona Park with a 7.30pm kick off.

06-Sep-2011 - South Shields 2 Newcastle Benfield 2

2011-10-18T22:17:00.007+01:00

1 - Cunningham
2 - Pearson
3 - Rodenby
4 - Kirkup
5 - Smith
6 - Brabbs
7 - Galas
8 - Chapim
9 - Benjamin
10 - Burnell
11 - McAvoy

12 - Grant
13 - Briggs
14 - Houshby
15 - Colvin
16 - Parkin

The match got under way with Shields facing a strong wind but despite this, started strongly. Indeed it took less than 2 minutes to find the back of the Benfield net when Benjamin placed a superb pass through the defence into the path of Tony Burnell who fired into the bottom left hand corner past the diving Grainger.

McAvoy cuts it out

Within minutes the floodlights were showing signs of pulsing with the lights going very bright and dim. After 25 minutes the referee took the two sides off and gave the ground staff the opportunity to solve the problem.

Chapim battles

After a delay of 15 minutes the two sides took to the field again and Benfield took full advantage of the disruption to get an equaliser within a couple minutes of the resumption when the Shields defence failed to clear the ball under pressure and the ball was scrambled home.

Burnell holds off the challenge

By this time the floodlights were again causing concern but Shields stormed forward and again went in front, this time with a great goal by Alex Benjamin running onto a defence splitting pass from Galas and firing right footed across Grainger into the bottom left hand corner of the net.

Benjamin gets the congratulations

Benfield quickly responded when Gilberto Chapim was dispossessed just outside his own box and the ball was passed quickly into the box and following another scramble the ball was put into his own net off Shaun McAvoy.

Timely tackle

With the lights constantly going off and on, the referee called a halt to the game at half time and a further replay would be required.

Chapim gets the ball forward

03-Sep-2011 - Newcastle Benfield 1 South Shields 1

2011-10-17T21:39:00.010+01:00

A tough game was in prospect today as Shields took on Newcastle Benfield at Sam Smith Park in dull overcast conditions, with rain just starting to fall as the match got underway.

Applying the pressure

However Shields were not overawed and proceeded to take the game to the home side, and indeed looked the better side.

Galas gets the shot in

Shields had the opportunity to level the scores in the 36th minute when Rodenby cut in from the right and was tripped in the box, with the referee pointing to the spot. It was noticeable that no one in the Shields ranks were keen to step up and take the spot kick so it was down to Alex Benjamin to take the penalty. Alex's shot was firmly struck but Benfield keeper Grainger diving to his right block the shot and the chance was cleared.

Getting the header first

Shields continued to press forward for the remainder of the half but clear chances were few and far between.

O'Brien shields the ball

Early in the second half Shields were dealt a blow when Duncan O'Brien went down and after lengthy treatment had to leave the field to be replaced by Tony Coe.

Coe the inspiration

Coe was immediately in the thick of things and within a couple of minutes of coming on Coe provided a perfect cross from the right, which was met at full stretch by Shaun McAvoy and his header looped over Grainger and high into the net for an excellent goal.

Coe battles for everything

Shields pushed on and came close to another goal as a shot from Benjamin on the hour just cleared the bar. The Mariners by now were clearly playing the better football and looking to grab the advantage.

Benjamin outnumbered

Galas was substituted in the 62nd minute as Gilberto Chapim entered the field. Shields were on top for most of the second half and almost took the win when Grainger produced a top class save in the dying minutes.

Grainger the saviour

Right at the end there were strong appeals for another penalty as the ball struck the arm of a Benfield player but the referee waved away the appeals.

29th August 2011 - South Shields 2 Sunderland RCA 3

2011-10-17T21:15:00.002+01:00

1 - Cunningham
2 - Smith
3 - Rodenby
4 - Kirkup
5 - O'Brien
6 - Brabbs
7 - Galas
8 - Barclay
9 - Benjamin
10 - Burnell
11 - Colvin

12 - McAvoy
13 - Pearson
14 - Chapim

South Shields were unable to get their first points of the season yesterday as they went down 3-2 to Sunderland RCA at Filtrona Park.

Andrew Barclay was making his debut in midfield for Shields having signed from Birtley over the weekend, while Yanis Galas returned to the right of midfield after injury and Michael Rodenby was awarded his first start of the season at left back.

The first chance of the game came on four minutes for RCA when a cross into the box was volleyed goalwards by Walton from close range, but it was saved well by Cunningham.

It was almost a dream start for Barclay, when a long ball was flicked on by Alex Benjamin to the debutant who was through on goal, but he was unable to get control of the ball.

Moments later Shields were to take the lead when a ball into the box was headed home by The Mariners number 9 Alex Benjamin to make it 1-0 to the home side.

And Benjamin almost doubled the lead on 22 minutes when a cross from the right by Smith was flicked on this time by Barclay and headed goalwards by Benjamin, but his attempt went over the bar.

The visitors equalised on 24 minutes when a mix up between Kirkup and Cunningham allowed Davison to knick in and grab his first goal of the afternoon.

Shields came back at RCA and a strong run from Barrie Smith, who ran with the ball from his right back position before unleashing a 25 yard strike, but the shot was well saved by Hoggeth.

South Shields were to retake the lead on 35 minutes when a good through ball from Barclay found Tony Burnell, who was strong to hold off a defender before cooly slotting the ball under Hoggeth to make it 2-1 to South Shields.

The game was end to end and on 38 minutes, an excellent delivery from the right was met by a strong head from former Shields striker Gavin Barton. His attempt hit the top of Cunningham's bar and went over for a goal kick.

Sunderland RCA were to get their equaliser before half time, when a free kick taken from the right was met by the head of Davison, who was head an shoulders above the defence to power the ball past Cunningham for his second goal of the game.

As the second half got underway it was RCA who were looking most likely to grab the all important third goal, twice coming close in the opening 10 minutes with a great save by Jake Cunningham keeping them at bay.

Shields were denied a penalty on 67 minutes when Tony Burnell passed the ball to McAvoy in the box, he lined up the shot at goal but was brought down in the process, and despite claims from the home side and their supporters, the referee waved play on.

It was RCA again pressurising the Shields defence 5 minutes later, this time Gavin Barton turned Duncan O'Brien on the edge of the box and fired in a curling shot that was again saved well by Cunningham.

But RCA got the winner and Davison claimed his hat-trick with 8 minutes to go with a
perfectly struck free kick from 20 yards.

It's FA Cup duties next for The Mariners as they travel to Newcastle Benfield in the preliminary round on Saturday.

27-Aug-2011 - Spennymoor Town 5 South Shields 0

2011-10-12T20:37:00.001+01:00

1 - Cunningham
2 - Smith
3 - O'Brien
4 - Kirkup
5 - McAvoy
6 - Brabbs
7 - Pearson
8 - Ramsey
9 - Benjamin
10 - Burnell
11 - Colvin

12 - Fitzpatrick
13 - Houshby
14 - Hamilton

South Shields were comprehensively beaten by defending champions Spennymoor Town on Saturday at The Brewery Field.

Manager Gary Steadman stuck with the 3-4-3 formation that was so successful against Chester le Street in midweek and also gave debuts to Andy Brabbs in the centre of midfield and Michael Pearson on the right of midfield.

Spennymoor started brightly, pressurising the Shields defence from the kick off, but it was to be the visitors who were to have the first chance of the game when Tony Burnell produced some great work down the left before firing in a cross for Stephen Ramsey, but the striker was to shoot wide of the post.

Spennymoor then went close to opening the scoring on two occasions, but Jake Cunningham in the Shields goal denied them from from taking the lead.

On the half hour, a dangerous ball forward by David Colvin was aimed at Alex Benjamin, who stretched out a leg but Craig Turns in the Spennymoor goal turned it behind for a corner.

Further pressure was to come from Spennymoor and Cunningham was again to come to Shields rescue with some superb reflex saves.

But the home side’s pressure was to eventually result in the opening goal on the stroke of half time. The ball was played into the box, and collected by Craig Ruddy who controlled the ball, twisted and turned the Shields defence and beat Cunningham with a tame shot.

Two minutes into the second half and Spennymoor had doubled their advantage, when a dangerous ball into the box was met by the head of the superb Adam Johnston.

Shields were to try and get back into the game when a through ball from Tony Burnell found Alex Benjamin, but the Shields number 9 shot wide of the post.

But the game was to be put beyond Shields reach on 60 minutes when the ball landed at Leon Ryans feet in the box and he drove the ball home from close range to make it 3-0 to Spennymoor.

Ten minutes kater, Adam Johnston went agonisingly close to his second and Spennymoors fourth with a low curling shot from 25 yards, but it was wide of the Cunninghams post.

But on 77 minutes, Spennymoor did get a fourth when a cross from the left found substitute Sam Garvie, who had looked dangerous since his introduction, he controlled and fired the ball low into the bottom corner from 12 yards.

And moments later it was to be 5-0 following continued pressure on the Shields defence. The ball was delivered from the left hand side and came to John Alexander who took aim and struck the ball from 18 yards. His shot went through the defence and past Cunningham to compete the rout.

Manager Gary Steadman will hope to pick his team up quickly for the Bank Holiday Monday visit of Sunderland RCA at Filtrona Park, Kick Off at 1pm.

23-Aug-2011 - South Shields 2 Chester Le Street 1

2011-10-10T11:37:00.015+01:00

1 - Carmichael
2 - O'Brien
3 - Smith
4 - Kirkup
5 - McAvoy
6 - Hamilton
7 - Galas
8 - Burnell
9 - Benjamin
10 - Ramsey
11 - Talbot

12 - Grant
13 - Armstrong
14 - Briggs

South Shields are through to the preliminary round of the FA Cup following a 2 - 1 victory over Chester le Street at Filtrona Park tonight.

It took only two minutes for South Shields to create their first chance of the game. Stephen Ramsey ran into the box and passed the ball to McAvoy, but his shot was marginally wide from 12 yards.

Forward charge

Chester le Street then created their first chance of the game with a long range effort from Johnson which went just wide.

Yanis gets the ball forward

It was to be all South Shields for the remainder of the first half. A long ball from McAvoy found Benjamin, who curled a shot goalwards on the turn to go agonisingly close for the home side.

Outjumped

On 11 minutes, Galas picked the ball up on the right hand side of midfield, ran inside and shot from 20 yards, but his strike was just over the bar.

A long ball from Barrie Smith on 19 minutes was flicked on by Stephen Ramsey to Alex Benjamin who shot wide of the post.

Bravery

On the half hour, Galas produced some great skill and perseverance down the right before passing to Ramsey, who shot on the turn, but his attempt was over the bar.

Flying down the wing

On 35 minutes, some superb pace from Galas down the right followed by a skilful turn to fool his opponent before delivering a left wing cross was met by the head of McAvoy, but his attempt was going wide. Benjamin stretched a foot out but was unable to connect.

Yanis applies the brakes

And it was to be Galas again going close for the home side. Bobby Hamilton passed the ball out wide to the pacy winger who hit a screaming shot from 30 yards wich was tipped over the bar superbly from Barlow in the Chester le Street goal.

Just before half time Shields had their best chance. A corner came out to Hamilton who hit the ball goalwards. Duncan O'Brien got a touch, but the ball was cleared off the line by the Chester le Street defence.

Guided missile?

Within 10 minutes of the second half, Shields got the goal their pressure deserved, when a ball played forward by Yanis Galas was flicked on by Tony Burnell and Shaun McAvoy coolly slotted the ball past the keeper.

McAvoy breaks the deadlock

Shields doubled their lead on 58 minutes, a free kick taken by Talbot on the left was headed goalwards by striker Alex Benjamin and met by the Kevin Millar sponsored Man of the Match Tony Burnell, who beat the keeper from close range.

Fighting for every ball

Chester le Street quickly pulled one back with a long range strike from McKendrie that Carmichael got his hands to, but not enough to stop it going in the back of the net.

Benjamin gets the header across

The last 10 minutes was end to end as Chester le Street searched for the vital equaliser and South Shields looked to put the result beyond doubt, Dan Kirkup coming closest to scoring on his home debut.

Ramma gets in ahead of the defender

The game was to finish 2-1 to the Mariners, who now face a trip to Newcastle Benfield in the next round, with the tie due to be played on Saturday 3rd September.

Dan Kirkup in full flight

20-Aug-2011 - Chester Le Street 1 South Shields 1

2011-10-03T01:16:00.012+01:00

A last minute goal from Alex Benjamin rescued a draw for South Shields at Chester le Street in the FA Cup as the game finished 1-1.

In the sunshine at Moor Park, manager Gary Steadman gave a debut to new signing Dan Kirkup and played a new look 3-4-3 formation, starting with striker Tony Burnell who impressed from the bench in the midweek game against Norton and Stockton Ancients.

Dan Kirkup makes his presence felt

In a game with few incidents it was the home side who were to take the lead. A through ball set Sam Renwick away one on one, but Carmichael came racing out to meet him and tripped the number 9. Carmichael was booked for the offending challenge and Chester Le Street awarded a free kick., which Jo Jowson put straight into the top left hand corner of Carmichaels goal.

Shaun McAvoy flicks the ball into the box

Midfielder Yanis Galas had the first chance of the second half with a stinging drive from 25 yards, but his attempt was marginally over.

Galas on the run

Ben Johnson created a chance for Chester le Street, when the pacy number 10 collected the ball from a throw, made a darting run into the box and hit a low shot at Carmichaels near post, but it was a strong save by Carmichael to deny the home side from doubling their lead.

The motley crew

As the game entered the closing stages, Shields began to look a lot brighter, creating chances and searching for the all important equaliser.

Benjamin gets the block in

A corner by winger David Colvin found the head of Tony Burnell, but Barlow in the Chester le Street goal was able to easily get his has hands to the ball.

Keeper gets there just ahead of Alex

A strong run down the right by Barry Smith before putting in a dangerous cross created a chance for David Colvin, but he couldn't connect and the ball went out for a goal kick.

That final touch evades

McAvoy put in a dangerous cross which was met by Alex Benjamin, but his attempt was just wide.

Off the line

Shields then won a corner in the 85th minute, which was taken by David Colvin. The cross led to a scramble in the box and striker Stephen Ramsey got his foot to the ball and tried to push it goalwards, but Barlow was able to get his hands to it.

Fine save

Shields were to be rewarded for their pressure in he closing minutes of the game when a fine cross by substitute Tony Coe fell to Alex Benjamin who smashed the ball home from a within the six yard box.

The equaliser

The replay will be played at Filtrona Park this coming Tuesday, replacing The Mariners fixture at West Auckand Town.

16-Aug-2011 - South Shields 2 Norton & Stockton 4

2011-10-03T00:38:00.010+01:00

South Shields were defeated by Norton & Stockton Ancients 4-2 in their first home game of the season last night.

The game was to start brightly and Shields created the first chance when a long range free kick, taken by Alex Benjamin, was tipped over the bar by Provett in the Norton goal. Benjamin was to again go close from the resulting corner.

Human barrier

It was to be Norton and Stockton who took the lead on 15 minutes. The ball was played through to Sonny Anderson, who's pace took him away from the Shields defence and he was able to slot the ball past Carmichael who had returned to the South Shields goal.

Ramma takes on all

And Sonny Andrews almost made it 2-0 moments later when he was again put through on goal, but this time the Norton number 9 hit the ball high of Carmichaels goal.

Sonny Andrews was then to become creator when he set his strike partner Richards away on 20 minutes, but a great save from Carmichael prevented Norton & Stockton from doubling their lead. The pace of the front two were causing the Shields defence all kinds of problems.

Benjamin applies pressure

Yanis Galas, making his home debut for the Mariners was to test Provett with a long range effort after Ramsey had held the ball up well, but the visiting keeper made a strong save.

But on 27 minutes, Norton and Stockton doubled the lead. A long throw from the left falls to Alderson who was able to fumble the ball past Talbot and Carmichael and over line.

Galas stretches high

And it's was 3-0 on 32 minutes when some slick passing from Norton and Stockton setup Clarke who was free in the box and he was able to beat Carmichael from close range.

Just before half time, Yanis Galas picked the ball up on the half way line, ran at the defence with pace and picked a perfect pass to Stephen Ramsey who beat the keeper to reduce the lead and give the home side confidence going into the break.

Keeper forces his way through

Manager Gary Steadman rang the changes at the break with Burnell, Colvin and McAvoy replacing Grant, Hamilton and Briggs and the changes were to have an immediate impact as the Mariners looked more confident and creative in the early stages of the second half.

Ramsey stays focused

And Shields were to pressurise the Norton and Stockton defence. Colvin crossed for Ramsey who directed a head goalwards, but Provett was just able to prevent the ball crossing the line. Galas went close moments later, but his half volley was marginally over the bar.

South Shields were then awarded a penalty in the 64th minute, when Stephen Ramsey was fouled in the box. Alex Benjamin stepped up to take the penalty, but much to everyones surprise inside Filtrona Park, his penalty came back off the post.

Substitute Shaun McAvoy was to go agonisingly close on 67 minutes, but his shot went across the face of goal and wide.

Benjamin fires narrowly wide

But Shields were to eventually get the goal their pressure deserved, when the ball pinged around the Norton and Stockton box, it eventually fell to Alex Benjamin who smashed the ball past Provett to bring the score back to 2-3.

The home side searched for the equaliser and some great pace and skill down the right from Lawsons Timber sponsored Man of the Match Yanis Galas, made room for for the cross, but Provett was first to it.

But Norton and Stockton were to kill the game off on 80 minutes when the visitors won a free kick on the edge of the box. The free kick was taken by Huggins from the left and was headed home by Alderson for his second and Nortons fourth.

Shields didn't give up and within a minute had a chance of their own when an excellent cross by Colvin was volleyed goalwards by Galas, but the ball was cleared off the line by the visiting defence.

Almost but not quite

The Mariners were unable to get the two goals required to get their first points on the board for the season and will now have an early break from league duties when they visit Chester le Street in the FA Cup on Saturday.

13-Aug-2011 - Bedlington Terriers 4 South Shields 2

2011-10-02T20:04:00.015+01:00

Bedlington opened the scoring in the 15th minute from a disputed free kick down the right hand side. The ball came in at speed and hit the far post and into the net.

Dave Colvin in a tussle for possession

Shields came back and it didn't take long for Alex Benjamin to register his first league goal for the club, getting his head onto the end of a Paul Talbot cross from the left wing and the ball looped over the Terriers keeper and into the net. A well taken goal.

Alex Benjamin gets a fine header on target for the equaliser

On 21 minutes Shields came close to going ahead as they continued to push forward when Stephen Ramsey got an overhead kick on target, only for the Bedlington centre half to get in a clearing header just as the ball was about to cross the line.

Off the line!

Bedlington re-gained the lead in the 27th minutes when they broke speedily and some lightweight defending left their forward one on one with Jake Cunningham and the ball was driven home.

The Terriers held the 2-1 lead at half time.

Yanis Galas had made a good impression on his league debut for the Mariners and topped it off with a fine shot to bring the Mariners level again in the 47th minute and Galas then celebrated acrobatically.

Head over heels

Team mates join the celebrations

Shields continued to push forward but Bedlington broke rapidly and some slack marking in the Shields defence allowed the Terriers to take the lead for a third time in the 53rd minute.

A last gasp tackle denies Ramma

Although Shields were still trying to make a game of it, the Terriers got a fouth goal in the last 10 minutes to put the result beyond doubt.

At full stretch

Presentation Night

2011-06-01T19:18:00.003+01:00

On Saturday May 14th, the players presentation night was held at the Mariners' Club and the awards were as follows:

Player Of The Year - LeePaul Scroggins
Players Player Of The Year - Barrie Smith
Young Player Of The Year - Robert Briggs
Top Goalscorer - LeePaul Scroggins
SSFC Supporters Association Player Of The Year - Josh Carmichael
and a special award from the Supporters Association to Simon 'The Cat' Parkin in recognition of his loyalty to the club.

Thanks to all of the players for the season just finished, all of your efforts are greatly appreciated. Looking forward to the new season already. :O)

Thanks also to everyone who attended the event. Excellent turn out on the night and a huge success.

Ramblings

2011-03-31T20:16:00.000+01:00

James Williams is the writer of a football blogg entitled footy Ramblings http://footyramblings.wordpress.com/ On Tuesday he visited Filtrona for the first time and has written an account of his trip and the game.

After being thoroughly underwhelmed by England’s performance against the Welsh on Saturday I decided to give the friendly against Ghana a miss and take in some Northern League action instead. A quick peek at the fixture list showed me that I had a choice between a trip to Esh Winning, Dunston UTS, Birtley Town and South Shields. After posting my game selection options on Twitter I was swiftly invited along to Filtrona Park to watch South Shields take on the intriguingly named Norton & Stockton Ancients. Being a polite soul, I decided to take up this offer and was soon on Google maps planning my journey.

After pitching up at Filtrona Park and paying my usual Northern League admission of £5 I had a nosy inside the Club House but opted against getting a drink, deciding to stick with my bottle of pop. Outside the clubhouse I had look at the two line ups on the chalkboard, but must confess I was none the wiser after doing so. I headed over to the railings at pitch side to take up position and couldn’t help but overhear the two conversations either side of me. To the left I heard three older blokes and a teenager talking about the ticket increases at Newcastle United and to the right two chaps agreeing with each other that they had no interest in the England v Ghana match whatsoever despite Gyan, Muntari and Mensah playing. If these two conversations provided a microcosm of South Shields FC I deduced that the crowd contained both NUFC and SAFC sympathisers, but these allegiances were on hold to cheer on the Claret and Blue’s.

Norton & Stockton got the game underway bang on 7.30PM but it was South Shields who had the bulk of possession early on, with Colvin appealing for a penalty after two minutes when he thought his cross hit the hand of the N&S right back. The referee waved this away telling the Shields winger that it was point blank and accidental.The first shot came after fifteen minutes when Shields full back Barry Smith drove a shot from outside the box well over the cross bar. After this N&S came in to the game with a sustained spell of pressure. N&S right midfielder Steven Huggins was becoming increasingly influential, his short passing and close touch causing the Shields midfield trouble. After twenty one minutes Huggins whipped in a great ball but it was cleared from the six yard line.

The first goal came after twenty seven minutes when N&S made their spell of dominance pay. However rather than a moment of brilliance, the goal itself was a bit of a calamity from the Shields point of view, with a failed attempt to play the ball out of defence gifting the ball to Craig Bishop who shot through the keeper from the angle of the six yard box to put S&N 0-1 up.

Following this it was S&N who remained in the ascendency with left midfielder Theo Furness showing some excellent close control and dribbling skill marauding down the flank. Shields wasted a golden opportunity to get back in to the game just before half time when a misjudged punch from the S&N keeper dropped to Shields centre forward Ramsey. In fairness he did have his back to goal, and his attempted overhead kick looped just over the bar with the keeper nowhere.
Half time arrived with the visitors’ good value for their one goal lead.

At this point myself and a number of others shuffled in to the Club House to catch 15 minutes of the England game. We witnessed Ashley Young hit the crossbar when it seemed easier to score and Asamoah Gyan strike a shot at goal from a full forty yards before I headed upstairs to grab a pint. I gulped that down before assuming the same position as in the first half. Anyone returning late for the second half may have missed N&S doubling their lead after forty seven minutes, again from a Shields error. N&S launched the ball from the back but their appeared to be little danger until Hall miss-hit his back pass straight to the N&S centre forward who had still had some work to do in lobbing the ball over the advancing Shields keeper.

From the resulting Shields kick off the ball was played back to the edge of their own penalty area before a poor touch and a lunge to make amends led to S&N having a free kick twenty yards out. The shot was riffled through the wall and parried well by the Shields keeper but only in to the path of Theo Furness who bundled the ball past the keeper. Thankfully for the home team the linesman on the far side had raised his flag for offside, indicating the S&N player had been beyond the last defender when the free kick was taken.

N&S appeared to be cruising to victory and the frustration of the home side boiled over after fifty five minutes when a late tackle led to some pushing and shoving in the centre circle. The referee was quick to intervene and calm the situation and the players soon dispersed without the referee feeling the need to show any cards. This seemed to focus the Shields players who began to press again, getting the ball in to box on a number of occasions without managing to register an attempt on target. Shields manager Gary Steadman made a couple of changes which led to the home side retaining more possession and also being able to get more crosses in to the box.

On seventy two minutes a cross from the left by one of the Shields subs found its way to Tony Coe at the back post, and he stooped down to head the ball past the S&N keeper and half the deficit to 1-2. This buoyed the home crowd, especially those behind the goal which Shields were attacking. Shields continued their bombardment of the N&S, who looked shocked to find themselves hanging on to a game they seemingly had won. N&S seemed to weather the storm but on seventy nine minutes a long diagonal from the Shields right found its way on to the head of Tony Burnell who flicked the ball past the onrushing keeper to make it a very unlikely 2-2. This was greeted by the loudest cheer of the night, and following it the Shields players pushed for winner.
This push was halted however on eighty eight minutes when Shields centre back Hall’s miserable evening was compounded when he was sent off for a lunge, although the dismissal was harsh as he won the ball first before catching the S&N substitute with his follow through.

The referee brought a very entertaining game to an end after two minutes of injury time in which neither side was able to fashion a chance to win the game. Theo Furness of N&S was my man of the match for numerous displays of dribbling and close control all over the pitch. For N&S 2-2 probably feels like a defeat after leading 2-0 with less than 20 minutes, where as for Shields it will feel like a victory after appearing down and out.

In conclusion it was a very enjoyable first trip to watch The Mariners. The game itself was of a very high standard, with both teams exhibiting good passing and first touch. Stockton & Norton may have just shaded it but Shields showed fantastic spirit and character to come from two down and a draw was probably a fair result. Hopefully I will be back at Filtrona Park before too long on my Northern League travels.

For more Northern-centric football ramblings follow me on twitter at www.twitter.com/footyramblings

Norton & Stockton 29th March 2011

2011-03-29T19:38:00.002+01:00

A great fightback from the Mariners after falling 2 nil behind in a forgetable hour of football. Shields seemed to be struggling to maintain any sort of meaningful possession and good pressing by The Ancients kept us on the back foot, and under a lot of pressure for much of the first half and start of the second.

For the last 30 minutes however Shields finally picked up the pace and began to push Norton and for the first time in the game began to creat some sustained pressure.

The Mariners were rewarded on 72 mins when a Colvin cross was converted by the ever energetic Tony Coe who headed from......several inches ;-)

With renewed confidence and determiation Shields continued to push and create half chances and the gutsy determination was paid off when Burnell leapt and won a rare, but welcome and rapturously received header and nodded it into the goal.

A neutral called it a game of two halves. I don't think we enjoyed quite so much parity, but we certainly deserved what we got after a terrific determined and gutsy final effort for the last half hour.

Never say die and guts gained a point and a lot of respect.

Bishop Auckland

2011-03-27T03:33:00.004+01:00

I thoroughly enjoyed my first trip to Heritage Park. The hospitality and people were top notch and the new ground is excellent. Excellent as long as you don't have to play football on it!!

I don't blame the club at all. They are doing their best to get through the season on the worst sandpit of a pitch I have ever seen. It actually looks freshly ploughed pre match. But it;s not suitable for football. Thankfully then the contractors have agreed to rip it up and sort it in the close season.

The match was naturally a poor one full of high balls and weird bounces with neither side enjoying great possession or domination. Shields had the greater number of good clear chances but failed to take them. Bishops in contrast managed to take the win with very late goals at the end of each half.

Team:
1.Parkin,
2.O'Brien,
3.McCardle,
4.Hall,
5.Briggs,
6.Armstrong,
7.Coe,
8.Fitzpatrick,
9.Ramsey,
10.Ryan,
11.Colvin,

Subs McBryde, Smith, Barnell, Busman, Carmichael

Full Time. Bishop Auckland 2 - 0 South Shields

Mobile Viewing

2011-03-26T11:48:00.001Z

Final change before I shoot off to the game.

The South Shields FC Supporters blog is now fully optimised for mobile viewing on your iPhone blackberry or any other suitable device.

No Del Boy, not your yuppie brick .... Cushty ;-)

Blog updates

2011-03-26T09:29:00.001Z

This blog has been a bit quiet recently so I shall be doing my best to change that.

This includes mobile updates ( of which this is a test) direct from games. Picture quality may be an issue, but I will try.

If you have anything you'd like to share please email it to me on smartbuild@hotmail.co.uk or text it to 07944 557427

Sent from my iPhone

Quadrophenia Revisited

2011-01-13T21:16:00.003Z

Determined not to feel the cold at Bedlington

South Shields v Tow Law Town - 13th November 2010

2010-11-19T18:32:00.003Z

Winn surges forward

South Shields Line Up

J Carmichael
S Banks
N McArdle
P Stoneman
D Hall
S Fitzpatrick
B Smith
LP Scroggins (Capt)
S Ramsey
C Winn
C Armstrong
A Brabbs
D Graham
R Briggs
D O’Brien
R Mandombo

South Shields welcomed Tow Law Town to Filtrona Park for what was expected to be a close and competitive contest. The visitors sat below The Mariners in the league table, only separated by goal difference. If Shields were to prove that they were capable of climbing the table then three points would be a must. The pitch looked in good condition despite the recent rainfall. This is testament to those who have put in the hard work over the last few seasons to improve the pitch quality. Game on…

Banging heads together

First Half Highlights

9 mins – Shields have their first attempt at goal, a long range effort from Scroggins which clears the crossbar.

10 mins – Fitzpatrick receives the ball in the box but his shot his blocked by a Tow Law defender. The ball lands at Ramsey’s feet and he tries his luck but the ball hits another defender in the crowded penalty area and the ball is eventually cleared.

22 mins – Chris Winn curls an effort from the corner of the 18 yard box. The ball flies just wide of the right hand post.

27 mins – Halliday isn’t closed down and finds himself with a yard of space. He gets a decent shot away but the ball skids wide of the right hand upright.

29 mins – A free kick is floated in to the Tow Law penalty area. Scroggins climbs above the crowd in the box to get his head to the ball. He couldn’t get the contact he wanted and the ball inched over the bar.

43 mins – Scott received the ball just outside of the six yard box. Carmichael raced out to get the ball, and Stoneman came flying in to try and dispossess the Tow Law player. Between the two of them they halted the visiting striker and safely gained possession of the ball.

Armstrong on the gallop

Scoggins "shoulders" the task of controlling the ball

The first half was a largely uninspiring. There were few clear cut chances at goal for either side. Shields seemed keen on sending too many long balls forward which the Tow Law defence were comfortable dealing with. Whilst The Mariners had the greater possession they were unable to unlock the visitors defence. At this stage the game had 0-0 plastered all over it. Surely the second half would see a change.

Ramsey sees his path blocked

Winn was a constant threat

Second Half Highlights

46 mins – Banks produced some good work down the right flank and crossed the ball in to the box. Winn was quickest to react but his shot went the wrong side of the left hand post.

47 mins – Armstrong raced down the right wing and produced an excellent cross in to the Tow Law box. Scroggins leapt the highest and guided his header home form eight yards, giving Robinson no chance in the visitors’ goal. 1-0.

48 mins – Chris Winn produces a looping header which sends Robinson scrambling back towards his line. However the Tow Law keeper regains his composure and makes the safe comfortably in the end.

53 mins – Hewitson fired in a good shot from 12 yards out but Carmichael was equal to it and produced a fine save, pushing the ball away and in to a safe area.

55 mins – Winn went on a great direct run and headed straight in to the Tow Law penalty area. He seemed to be fouled but he stayed on his feet and managed to get a shot on target. Robinson flung himself to his right and managed to produce a decent save to prevent Shields from doubling their lead.

56 mins – Hall produced some great work to get himself in to the penalty area with the ball. As he ventured towards the by-line to cross the ball he had his legs taken from under him by Killeen. Penalty! Scroggins placed the ball on the spot. He slotted the ball in to the right hand corner of the goal, sending the Tow Law keeper the wrong way. 2-0.

60 mins – An inch perfect pass from Armstrong found the feet of Winn. He cut inside and curled his shot towards goal but his effort ran just wide of the left hand post.

62 mins – Scroggins fired in a rasping free kick from 25 yards out which forced the visitor’s keeper to produce a good save low to his left.

63 mins – Smith thumps a great header in to the Tow Law net after a cross, which was pin point accurate, from Winn on the right wing. Unfortunately the goal was not allowed to stand as the linesman (sorry Referee’s Assistant) had flagged for offside.

66 mins – Barrie Smith whipped in a lovely cross and Ramsey connected with the ball beautifully to head it home and increase the lead to 3-0.

68 mins – Ian Davison cracks a stunning free kick from 25 yards that flies in to the back of the net and gave Carmichael no chance of producing a save. A fantastic effort that saw many Shields fans applauding. 3-1.

69 mins – Smith delivers another fantastic cross in to the Tow Law box. Ramsey sent a header towards goal which was saved. The ball then fell to the feet of Armstrong who calmly stroked it home from close range to extend the lead. 4-1.

70 mins – Tow Law pushed forward to try and reduce the deficit. Parkinson took a half chance to hit the ball towards Carmichael in the Shields goal but his effort comfortably rolled wide of the left hand post.

72 mins – Halliday struck a speculative shot from 18 yards but it didn’t trouble Carmichael and the ball went harmlessly wide.

86 mins – Ramsey raced towards the touchline and whipped in a fierce cross along the face of the visitors’ goal. Smith raced in and threw himself at the ball but failed to make contact by a fraction of an inch.

Ramsey & Fitzpatrick are both foiled by the Tow Law rearguard

Winn fights to keep the ball

South Shields were like a different team after the interval. They were threatening from the restart right up until the final whistle. Once the kept the ball on the ground and ran at the opposition they caused untold problems to The Lawyers. Smith, Armstrong and Winn caused a number of problems by running at the visitors with the ball at their feet. Scroggins and Fitzpatrick pulled the strings in the centre of the park. The back four were solid throughout with Stoneman and Hall starting to form what looks like a decent partnership.

A human Newton's Cradle

The win moves Shields up to tenth place, leapfrogging Penrith. The Mariners have a run of tough away fixtures coming up, including Spennymoor Town and Newcastle Benfield, so getting some points on the board is certainly welcomed. Also it helps set the team up to build and progress. They have shown against Tow Law Town that they can play some good football.

Scroggins tries his luck from 25 yards

Some of the forthcoming away fixtures are against sides that are in the lower half of the division. It would be hoped that a decent haul of points could be accrued to put Shields in a strong position for the New Year. I am sure there will be the usual strong contingent of supporters cheering the lads on!

Onwards and upwards!

South Shields v Shildon - 6th November 2010

2010-11-11T13:31:00.004Z

Fitzpatrick keeps calm under pressure

South Shields Team Selection

J Carmichael
S Banks
N McArdle
P Stoneman (Capt.)
D Hall
A Brabbs
B Smith
S Fitzpatrick
S Ramsey
C Winn
D Bulman
S Parkin
D O’Brien
R Briggs
A Burnell
C Armstrong

South Shields entertained Shildon at Filtrona Park with The Mariners hoping to inflict the first away defeat of the season on the visitors. Shildon knew a victory could send them top of the table. Thankfully the weather had relented and the monsoon that caused the postponement of Tuesday’s game against Whitley Bay was now just a distant memory. Influential midfielder Lee Paul Scroggins was serving a one game suspension so Paul Stoneman proudly wore the captains’ armband.

Winn's market gets a face full of ball!

First Half Highlights

2 mins – Andrews rose in the penalty area to connect to a cross from the left flank. He got power in to his effort but could not direct it and the ball cleared the crossbar.

11 mins – Hughes found himself with the ball at his feet on the edge of the Shields area. He struck a powerful effort which took a slight deflection in a busy penalty area and just ran wide of the left hand upright.

25 mins – Ramsey did a superb job in holding up the ball just inside the Shildon box. With his back to goal he stood strong as two Shildon players grappled with him. He laid the ball off to an advancing Fitzpatrick who firmly struck his shot from just outside the area. Finch produced a decent save diving to his left to prevent Shields from taking the lead.

32 mins – Shildon launched a free kick from the left flank straight in to the heart of the Shields area. The ball was headed towards goal and Johnson turned and swept the ball home from 6 yards to give Shildon a deserved lead. 0-1.

35 mins – Harwood surged down the right wing, cut inside and thumped a shot towards goal. It zipped across the face of the goal and went just wide of the left hand upright.

39 mins – Banks was adjudged to have fouled Hughes in the area. A very dubious decision by referee Mr Chapman which left Banks looking bemused. Lee Chapman didn’t mind the decision and calmly slotted the spot kick home to double Shildon’s advantage. 0-2.

It takes three men to stop Winn

Do-do-do come on and do the Conga...

Shildon took a deserved lead in to the interval. Shields had seen little of the Shildon goal, partly through some good defending by the visitors, and partly through some erratic passing. Bulman had to leave the field on 20 minutes due to injury and Armstrong came on in his place. Hopefully we will see more of Bulman at a later date.

Ramsey holds up the ball under the close eye of his marker

Second Half Highlights

46 mins – Ramsey fires a few inches over the crossbar from 25 yards.

54 mins – Smith tries his luck from distance but sees his shot clear the bar from 20 yards out.

56 mins – Andrews found a small gap and tried his luck from the edge of the area but his shot sailed comfortably over the bar.

60 mins – Winn produced some fine work on the left flank. He managed to wriggle clear of two Shildon players and surged in to the area. He stroked the ball across the area to a waiting Ramsey. From 10 yards out Ramsey tried his luck but got under the ball and saw his effort go over the bar.

75 mins – Richmond saw his crisp shot fly just the wrong side of the right hand post from 15 yards.

82 mins – Andrews raced clear from midfield with the ball at his feet. Carmichael came out to close down the angles. He made himself as big as he could and Andrews tried to beat him from the edge of the area but his attempt went wide of the post. Brilliant stuff from Carmichael.

83 mins – Winn produced another lovely cross from the left wing. Ramsey flung himself at the ball to try and stab it home. Harwood also hurled himself at the ball to try and clear the danger. However, he only succeeded in putting the ball in to his own net with Finch well beaten. 1-2.

88 mins – Briggs shows some lovely control in the middle of the park. He made a space for himself and let loose a powerful shot from 30 yards. Finch needed to take two bites of the cherry to save the shot but managed to hold on before any further damage could be caused.

88 mins – Straight from the Briggs effort, Shildon stormed up the pitch and hit the woodwork.

Smith gets stuck in

Strictly Come Dancing comes to Filtrona

Shildon deservedly took all three points away from Filtrona Park. Shields were better in the second half but Shildon were just a bit better. The visitor’s defence was well organised, the midfield created plenty of passes to the front men and the forwards looked full of confidence. Shildon didn’t give Shields room to play which resulted in too many speculative long passes up field. Ramsey tried hard but with little service. Winn managed to create a few chances in the second half but Shildon made life very difficult for him.

Fitzy plays Twister

It would be easy to point to the dubious penalty decision and cry out that it should have been a draw, but Shildon did deserve their win. It is easy to see why they sit at the top end of the table. To their credit South Shields kept battling and did get themselves back in to the contest late on. For me, Fitzpatrick put in a great performance in the middle of the park. Stoneman and Hall combined well in the middle of the defence.

Hall marshalls the troops

Airborne battle

Whilst it is understandable that there was some disappointment in the defeat, there were a number of positives also. Burnell came off the bench and gave Shildon some problems. Armstrong put in another solid performance after replacing the injured Bulman. This hopefully shows some depth to the squad. The team fought hard for the full ninety minutes and never gave up trying to peg the visitors back.

Four contestants but there can only be one winner

So next up is Tow Law Town, a team with a very similar record to South Shields in the league this season. It promises to be a tight and competitive game. Get yourself along to Filtrona if you can and give the lads your support.

Onwards and upwards!

Question & Answer

2010-10-27T09:57:00.002+01:00

The club have agreed to meet with supporters in an open forum to answer any and all questions posed. Representatives of the club and team management will be in attendance.

This is a great opportunity to get to those in charge and have them answer all those questions you ask yourself about team selection decisions, about club direction, or even about pie quality.

It's YOUR chance, please take it.

Thursday 4th November 2010. 7.00pm. Lord Ashley Public House, Stanhope Road (function room upstairs)

Ryton v South Shields - 16th October 2010

2010-10-19T18:11:00.004+01:00

Ole!

South Shields Team Line-up

S Parkin
B Smith
N McArdle
P Stoneman
S Banks
S Fitzpatrick
T Coe
LP Scroggins (Capt)
S Sweeney
P Kane
C Armstrong
D Hall
S Ramsey
D Graham
R Briggs
C Winn

A bright autumnal day greeted South Shields as they visited Ryton on the hunt for three valuable points. Never an easy pitch to play on, this game would was always going to be the proverbial banana skin. Ryton are in the middle of a massive transition with new players coming in all the time as they fight for survival. The Mariners are finding the season to be a tough battle and would have seen this game as a great chance to score maximum points. Shields gave a debut to Niall McArdle, recently signed from Whitley Bay.

Scroggins moves the play upfield

First Half Highlights

7 mins – Tony Coe receives the ball on the right, puts his head down and bears down own the Ryton goal. Adnitt comes out to try and close him down but Coe keeps calm and slots the ball past the advancing keeper and in to the net. 1-0.

8 mins – Virtually straight from the restart, Robbie Frame receives the ball on the right wing for Ryton. He sends in a wonderful cross with power which clears everyone including Parkin in the Shields goal and plants itself in the top corner of the net. Frame looked as surprised as everyone else. 1-1.

10 mins – Fitzpatrick fizzes one towards goal from 18 yards which is neatly tipped over the bar by Adnitt.

12 mins – From a Shields corner, Scroggins climbs the highest to direct the ball at goal. His effort just cleared the bar.

The remaining half an hour of the first half saw very little in the way of goalmouth action from either side. However, Ryton had possession for long periods without really threatening the Shields defence. When the Mariners got the ball it was given away too cheaply and the long ball was relied on a little too often. Shields made an enforced substitution after only fifteen minutes when Sweeney was forced off the pitch with a knock. Davy Graham came on as a direct replacement. A better second half performance would be required to gain victory from this game.

Kane beats off three Ryton players as he surges forward

Scroggins keeps the keeper busy

Second Half Highlights

48 mins – Paul Kane sent a powerful header towards the Ryton goal. His effort rattles off the bar and falls back in to the home side’s six yard box. Quickest to react was Davy Graham who nodded the ball home past Adnitt to put Shields back in front. 2-1.

54 mins – McArdle gets on to the end of a decent cross but puts his headed effort over the bar.

59 mins – Kane whips the ball in to the Ryton area. Scroggins raced in to the box and threw himself at the ball but was just inches short of being able to make clean contact and his effort looped up and went comfortably over the bar.

64 mins – Fitzpatrick tried his luck from distance. He cleanly struck an effort from 25 yards but it continued to climb and whistled over the bar.

67 mins – Captain Scroggins replicated Fitzpatrick’s effort a few minutes earlier, striking the ball from about 25 yards out. The result was also the same as it cleared the bar by only a few inches.

71 mins – Graham slots the ball home but has his goal ruled out for offside.

75 mins – The home side carve out a rare second half chance and fire an effort through a crowded Shields penalty area. Parkin sees it late but gets down quickly producing a good save at his left hand post.

77 mins – Kane picks up the ball in the middle of the pitch and surges forwarded. Despite the company of three Ryton players he manages to get to the edge of the area. His effort had power but he sent it just over the bar. A good solo effort which deserved a goal.

81 mins – The Mariners were awarded a free kick on the left which was neatly dispatched in to the area. Davy Graham got power behind his headed effort but couldn’t control the direction and sent it wide of the left hand upright.

86 mins – Graham produces a perfectly weighted pass which splits the defence. Briggs picked up the pass and took it forward. Once in the area he confidently dispatched his shot past Adnitt in the Ryton goal to make it 3-1.

Coe is bundled over

Kane springs in to action

A much better second half performance saw the Mariners pick up a very useful three points. New signing Darryl Hall came on at the start of the second half and Robert Briggs also made an appearance. Whilst this still wasn’t Shields at their best, it was enough to secure the points. McArdle produced a solid display and Hall looked steady for the 45 minutes he played. Scroggins was his usual tenacious self and tried to be involved in everything.

McArdle gets the job done in any way necessary

It is hard to know exactly what can be taken from this game as Ryton are very much a work in progress. Shields tinkered and weren’t a full strength side as Gary Steadman chose to give a few squad players a run out along with his new signings. Ultimately it was three points secured and that is the most important factor. Some of the squad players may also get a run out at Chester-le-Street on Tuesday night. However I get the feeling that the starting eleven against Roofing on Saturday won’t resemble either of these line ups.

None shall pass!

Davy Graham congratulates Robert Briggs after he scores Shields' third goal

South Shields have picked up ten points in their last six league games which is a reasonable haul. Whilst it is true that many supporters believe there is still better to come from the Mariners, it isn’t crisis point just yet. So let’s get behind the lads and give them all the support they need to help them climb the table.

I just want a hug

Onwards and upwards!

South Shields v Bishop Auckland - 9th October 2010

2010-10-11T14:37:00.006+01:00

Coe and Armstrong battle in midfield

South Shields Team Sheet

S Parkin
B Smith
M Rodenby
P Stoneman
S Banks
A Brabbs
T Coe
LP Scroggins (Capt)
S Sweeney
S Ramsey
C Winn
C Armstrong
P Kane
C Thorp
S Fitzpatrick
D Graham

A cold, grey and dank day couldn't dampen the spirits of the home supporters hoping to see the team pick up a welcome three points. Whilst nobody was expecting a repeat of last season's 8-1 scoreline, the home faithful were hopeful of a victory. Let battle commence.

Ramsey surges forward

Winn gets caught by Ord

First Half Highlights

3 mins - Turnbull tries his luck early on with a long shot that doesn't trouble the Shields keeper.

9 mins - Emson struck a sweet shot from 15 yards. It ricocheted off the right hand post and back in to the middle of the Shields penalty area but the danger was quickly cleared.

11 mins - Lovely play between Coe and Smith saw the latter whip in a lovely high cross in to the Bishop area. Sweeney rose higher than anyone to direct the ball past Jeffries and give the Mariners the lead. 1-0.

18 mins - Turnbull directs a header just over the bar from a corner.

20 mins - Stoneman got his head to a free kick sent in to the area. His effort hit the post and the ball was quickly thumped away to safety.

34 mins - Ramsey struck a decent effort from the edge of the area which only just went the wrong side of the post, much to Jeffries pleasure in the away goal.

45 mins - Coe raced on to a cross field pass and found himself free. He took on the keeper and curled the ball past him. It caught the right hand post and rolled back across the goal mouth but nobody could get on to the end of it to turn it home.

45+2 mins - Coe floats a cross in to the area which Winn meets with a firm header. Unfortunately he could not keep it down and it flew over the Bishop Auckland crossbar.

Oh so nearly 2-0

Stoneman wins another aerial battle

Ramsey gets instructions on the touch line

The first half saw Shields lead by the odd goal. The Mariners missed a number of chances and could have had a far more comfortable lead if one or two had been taken. Still, a lead was welcome and the supporters hoped that the lads would push on and kill the game off in the second half.

Brabbs takes out Turnbull

Scroggins whips in a cross

Second Half Highlights

46 mins - Emson breaks through the Shields defence and tries to chip a rapidly advancing Parkin. Cat does enough to close the angles and Emson puts his effort over the bar.

48 mins - Emson gets his reward for his continuing efforts and clinically finishes to bring the scores level. A mistake by Rodenby in the Bishop Auckland half let the visitors through and Shields were punished. 1-1.

65 mins - Salvin follows up a deflection from a free kick and sees his effort go just wide of the left hand upright.

73 mins - Richardson finds the ball at his feet in the Shields area and fires off a shot from only a few yards out. Parkin reacted brilliantly and produced a fantastic save which kept Shields in the game.

74 mins - Stoneman tried his luck from 20 yards out but his shot went wide of the post.

85 mins - Emson screws a shot wide of the left hand post.

86 mins - A great effort from 25 yards by Coe saw Jeffries scrambling across his goal and throwing himself in desperation at the ball. Unfortunately Coe's effort just went the wrong side of the upright with the visiting keeper beaten.

90+1 mins - Winn took a chance from 20 yards but it never troubled Jeffries and cleared the bar.

90+2 mins - Emson almost snatched it at the death. Only another great save from Parkin at the bottom of his left hand post prevented the visitors from stealing all three points.

1-1 was a fair result at the end of the day. Shields could have been home and dry by half time if they had taken the chances that fell their way. Bishop Auckland could have romped home in the second half but a mixture of great saves from Cat and poor finishing meant they couldn't kill the game off either.

Winn gets some close attention from Ord

It is hard to know what is Shields best eleven at the moment. Injuries, suspensions and lack of availability has meant that there hasn't been a settled side. In particular, the forward line is anything but settled. By my reckoning there have been no less than twelve different attacking partnerships used in the starting eleven this season. Until a partnership is allowed to develop and gel there is always going to be difficulties.

Sweeney shows his strength

I would like to highlight the performances of Cat in goal and Stoneman in the heart of the defence. These two showed commitment and effort from first to last whistle.

Super Cat!

So on to Consett on Wednesday night which will be a real test. They are 8 wins in eight games at home this season and will be a very hard opposition to beat. A point would be a great result, but let's be positive and hope for the win!

Onwards and upwards!!

South Shields v Dunston UTS - 28th August 2010

2010-08-31T20:14:00.005+01:00

Scroggins turns and runs

South Shields Team Sheet

J Carmichael
C Trewick
M Rodenby
P Stoneman
S Banks
M Grant
B Smith
LP Scroggins (C)
C Winn
A Wakefield
S Fitzpatrick
P Haxon
C Armstrong
A Brabbs
J Evans
T Stephenson
C Thorp
S Parkin

Dunston UTS travelled to Filtrona Park on a blustery sort of day for this FA Cup Preliminary Round tie. Dunston have started the season fairly well, whereas Shields have been a bit erratic. Who would triumph and progress in to the next round?

Wakefield uses his strength

Trewick clatters the shin pads

First Half Highlights

17 mins - Scroggins hits a 20 yard free kick but Connell got down to save at his left hand post.

30 mins - Wakefield scuffed his shot after a good run and it was easily cleared from a couple of yards in front of the goal line.

42 mins - Bulford sent a decent effort flying just over the Shields bar from 15 yards.

Wakefield whips in a cross

Haxon gets knocked over

The first half never caught alight. Shields were the slightly better side but very few chances were created by either team. The Mariners looked the more threatening but didn't test Connell in the Dunston goal enough.

Feeling deflated??

Second Half Highlights

48 mins - Wakefield went on a great run and fired a powerful effort towards the Dunston goal from 18 yards. Connell was pleased to see it just clear the crossbar.

55 mins - Galbraith tried his luck but Trewick cleared the danger.

57 mins - Galbraith tried his luck again but his shot fizzed across the face of the Shields goal and went out for a goal kick.

60 mins - Winn cunningly jinked his way to the touchline. He pulled a great ball back in to the area which found Wakefield. Wakefield kept calm and slotted it home to give the Mariners a 1-0 lead.

63 mins - Dixon headed wide of the right hand post from a well delivered free kick.

73 mins - Young found himself unmarked in the area. He connected neatly with a decent cross but guided his effort wide.

73 mins - Shields marched up the pitch from the above effort with pace and Chris Winn fired a fizzing effort from 25 yards which only just cleared the Dunston bar.

77 mins - Dixon thumped a shot from 10 yards. the ball hit the bar, bounced straight down, then lobbed itself over the line to bring the scores level at 1-1.

The 110m Stoneman Hurdle

The Joy of Six

The second half saw a little more in the way of shots at goal but Shields didn't capitalise when in the lead. Dunston were the slightly better team in the second half and a draw was a very fair result in the end.

Smith takes flight

Scroggins congratulates Wakefield on his goal

Trewick lashes it forward

An easily forgettable game which never delivered what it promised from the pre-match billing. A replay on Tuesday night will be a tough game for the Mariners. Dunston will be favourites but underdogs have been known to spring the odd surprise. It is hard to know why South Shields aren't firing at the moment, but the supporters hope they start to get some momentum going soon.

Onwards and upwards!!

Pickering Town v South Shields - 15th August 2010

2010-08-17T18:31:00.007+01:00

The Motley Crew prepare to invade Pickering

South Shields Team Selection

J Carmichael

D O'Brien

M Rodenby

S Banks

P Stoneman

M Grant

B Smith

LP Scroggins (C)

A Burnell

J Wightman

C Armstrong

Subs

S Parkin

M Gaffney

J Evans

C Winn

A Brabbs

On a lovely sunny day Pickering Town played hosts to South Shields for an F.A. Cup Extra Preliminary Round tie. A beautiful playing surface had been prepared, albeit on one of the more sloped pitches the Mariners will probably ever play on. The pitch looked so lush and green that we expected a game of snooker to be played in the centre circle at half-time!

Both sides came in to this game on the back of two defeats. They often say that bad luck comes in threes… which side would this apply to?

In memory of Joe Greening

Prior to kick-off a minutes silence was observed in memory of Joe Greening, a 26 year-old lad from Filey who was tragically killed on the morning of Friday 13th August. He played for Star FC and was a cousin of Jonathan Greening, currently playing for Fulham. He left behind two children and a girlfriend, by all accounts a popular lad who will be missed by many.

Shields were celebrating early in the game

Burnell sees his effort tipped over

First Half Highlights

7 mins – Burnell races on to a ball lofted over the back four to beat their offside trap. He connects sweetly from 20 yards out but his effort just cleared the bar.

10 mins – Wightman was fouled just inside the box and the referee immediately pointed to the spot. Scroggins stepped up and stroked the ball in to the bottom left hand corner of the goal. 1-0.

29 mins – Wightman fires one in from the corner of the box which goes over the crossbar.

30 mins – Duncan O’Brien played a great ball forward. Scroggins beats the offside trap and races in to the area. He let fly on the run and thundered the ball past Martin in the Pickering Town goal from 15 yards. Lovely finish. 2-0.

45+1 mins – After some tenacious work by Adams he finally wriggles in to enough space to shoot. His effort runs across the six yard box and goes just wide of the right hand post.

A very good performance in the first half saw the Mariners walk off the pitch with a two goal advantage. The travelling supporters were looking forward to the second half.

Smith in control

Burnell keeping "on his toes"

Scroggins was a problem for the Pickering side from start to finish

Scroggins converts the penalty - 1-0!

Second Half Highlights

46 mins – Scroggins is one-on-one with Martin in the Pickering goal. He manages to squeeze a shot past the keeper’s left hand but it went just past the upright.

47 mins – Scroggins plants a great header past the Pickering keeper from 12 yards out. The cross from Smith was inch perfect and Scroggins made no mistake with his effort to give Shields a 3-0 lead.

51 mins – Parks rises to meet a decent cross. His headed effort looked certain to creep in past the right hand post. However, Carmichael pulls off a fantastic save at full stretch, tipping the ball around the post with the fingertips of his left hand.

56 mins – Adams takes a chance and strikes one from the edge of the area. It hurtles through a crowded penalty area and rattles the back of the net. Pickering reduce the deficit. 3-1.

60 mins – Clough cuts in from right flank and unleashes a good effort but Carmichael was equal to it and produced a good save.

66 mins – The ball was whipped in to the Shields area where it was met by Adams. His header was quite weak and was easily saved by Carmichael.

69 mins – After some good work between Burnell and substitute Winn on the right hand side, the ball was played in to the path of Scroggins. His effort from 12 yards out went wide of the right hand post.

70 mins – New signing Winn produced a decent header from six yards out which drew a superb reaction save from Martin in the Pickering goal. He pushed his effort around the post. From the resulting corner Winn again thumped a headed effort towards goal from ten yards, but once again Martin produced a good save to prevent him from scoring.

78 mins – Chris Winn leapt to meet a superb cross from the right flank by Jonny Evans. His thumping header crashed off the crossbar and bounced away to safety.

87 mins – Pickering sends a free kick from 20 yards out comfortably over the bar.

88 mins – A tenacious Chris Winn cuts in from the right hand side of the box but Martin was equal to his effort and pulled off the save.

89 mins – Winn once again cuts in from the right hand flank and belts one in to the back of the net from 12 yards. A thoroughly deserved goal.

90 mins – Save made from a decent effort by Burnell.

90+1 mins – Winn fires in an effort towards goal from 12 yards but it is deflected and cleared.

It's all happening!

So the Mighty Mariners ran out worthy winners of this cup tie. Apart from a fifteen minute spell when they took the foot off the gas, the team dominated the game. Two substitutions quickly changed that however. The introduction of young Jonny Evans and new signing Chris Winn reinvigorated the team and they came back to life.

Grant was in great form

It could have so easily been another penalty

Winn was a handful from the off and thoroughly deserved his goal. In fact he was unlucky not to score a hat-trick himself. May well be a useful acquisition. To be fair every player played his part across the 90 minutes. Obviously Scroggins notching up a hat-trick deserves a mention. A well executed penalty and two well taken goals put Shields in the driving seat.

Winn cracks home his debut goal, and the Mariners fourth

Not many grounds are this picturesque

Burnell was so unfortunate not to register on the score sheet. He was a threat from whistle to whistle and gave the Pickering defence the runaround on numerous occasions. Grant was snapping at heels along with Scroggins to control the centre of the park. And the back four acted as a well marshalled unit. Carmichael was rarely troubled but was solid when needed. Armstrong and Smith gave the team width and produced lots of good passes to the forward men.

Burnell lets rip early on in the game

Burnell leaves his marker for dead

So South Shields will take on Dunston UTS at home in the next round on 28th August. If they perform in the same way as they did against Pickering Town they will have a real chance of progressing further.

Captain Marvel - the hat-trick hero!!

Onwards and upwards!!

South Shields v Newcastle Benfield - 10th August 2010

2010-08-13T18:25:00.007+01:00

Former team mate Paxton keeps his eye on Jonny

South Shields Team

J Carmichael
D O'Brien
M Rodenby
P Stoneman
S Banks
P Bryson
J Evans
LP Scroggins (C)
T Stephenson
J Wightman
C Armstrong
M Grant
S Parkin
A Wakefield
A Brabbs
B Smith

South Shields second game of the season saw them take on a strong looking Newcastle Benfield team at Filtrona Park. The visitors handed out two spankings to South Shields at Filtrona Park last season. They clocked up a 4-1 victory in the F.A. Cup and a 6-1 thrashing in the league. Hopefully it was going to be payback time…

Stoneman chases his down his man

Hare's running... and they're off!

First Half Highlights

1 min – Grainger called in to action early. Scroggins hit a dangerous free kick which was parried and Jonny Evans was quickest to react to the loose ball but keeper pulled off another good save to deny him.

2 mins – Banks doesn’t clear his lines and effectively played a through ball for Campbell. He thumped the ball past Carmichael to give the visitors a very early lead. 0-1.

4 mins – Scope fired a long shot towards the Shields goal but it was comfortably saved by Carmichael.

18 mins – Shields applied a bit of pressure on the Benfield goal. It eventually fell to Evans but his shot cleared the bar.

27 mins – Carmichael produces a great double save to keep the deficit to one goal.

33 mins – Feasey fires one in. Carmichael pushes the ball away but it lands at Campbell’s feet. He sends his shot well over the bar.

35 mins – Banks and O’Brien both fail to deal with long ball forward and this allows Campbell to break through the Shields rearguard. Carmichael made himself as big as possible and forced Campbell to screw his shot wide of the post.

41 mins – Campbell is obviously in the mood and tries his luck again from 20 yards out. Carmichael makes an easy save.

42 mins – Adam Scope took off on a great run. As he hit the edge of the area he thumped a shot towards the Shields goal, only to see it rattle the crossbar.

I took this ball flush on my left eye. Things I do for you lot ;o)

Eyes fixed on the action

Shields had struggled to make an impact in the first half. Newcastle Benfield looked a well organised and very disciplined team. Their passing was crisp, movement off the ball was excellent and their defence was rigid. The Mariners looked very much second best in the first half. The passing was too often wayward and there was very little movement off the ball. There was also a certain amount of déjà vu as most of the attacking play was lacking variation. Surely the second half would see an improvement.

Banks keeps close to his opponent

Evans doesn't give up

Superb save from Carmichael

Second half highlights

47 mins – Campbell was put clean through again. Josh Carmichael did everything right and saved the shot with his legs.

56 mins – Jonny Wightman fired a shot from the edge of the area through a mass of bodies. Keeper saw it early and made the save.

71 mins – Wightman connected to a cross but saw his lovely glancing header go just past the keeper’s left hand post.

78 mins – A lovely bit of play between Jonny and Jonny (Wightman and Evans) on the right hand flank culminated with a great ball being played to the feet of Dominic Elliott. He took a step to steady himself but fired his shot straight at the keeper.

90 mins – Wightman ran on to a lovely through ball. His shot was parried by Grainger but the rebound fell to Scroggins. He struck a firm shot but the visitor's keeper was equal to it and produced another good save.

90+1 mins – From a Shields corner the ball ended up at the feet of Banks in the middle of the six yard box. He side footed his effort towards goal but he put it wide of the right hand post.

Stoneman arrives just a fraction too late

"I'll take you on with one leg behind my back!"

Banks' error lets in Campbell

The second half saw an improvement in The Mariners performance. It was still some way from being the finished article but they created a lot more chances at goal. The passing improved and more urgency was apparent. The introduction of Brabbs on the hour mark seemed to create a better balance in the team. The change in formation to a 3-4-3 also saw Shields become more of a threat.

Banks keeps his gaze fixed on the ball

There were a couple of plus points from the game. Carmichael is showing himself to be more than a worthy replacement to Niki Lawson between the sticks. His performance, especially in the first half, kept Shields in the game.

Rodenby turns on a sixpence

Also young Jonny Evans on the right flank gradually grew in stature throughout the game. Constantly being encouraged and nurtured by Scroggins on the pitch and the management team on the touchline, his confidence increased as the game went on. He is young and will take a little while to find his feet at this level, but with the right help and encouragement he could become a valuable member of the team.

Stoneman is a picture of concentration

"Two 99's with monkey's blood over here please"

I think his heads fallen off!

Two games and two defeats will no doubt have a few people worried but it isn’t all doom and gloom. The forthcoming F.A. Cup tie away at Pickering Town may be a useful distraction. They will be cheered on by a decent number of travelling supporters who will be making the 140 mile round trip on Sunday. It is at times like these when the team really needs our support.

Onwards and upwards!!

South Shields v Bedlington Terriers - 7th August 2010

2010-08-07T20:53:00.005+01:00

South Shields Team Photo

South Shields Team Sheet

J Carmichael
D O'Brien
M Rodenby
S Banks
P Stoneman
P Bryson
C Armstrong
LP Scroggins (C)
T Stephenson
A Brabbs
B Smith
S Parkin
A Burnell
A Wakefield
M Gaffney
A Hutchinson

The new season got under way in the usual mix of sunshine and showers as South Shields hosted Bedlington Terriers. It promised to be a good game with both teams hoping to make improvements to their league position this year. The same fixture last year saw South Shields run out 6-1 winners. Would it be the same again?

You're meant to punch the ball, not the player!

Bryson shields the ball from his marker

Smith gets the better of his marker

First Half Highlights

11 mins - Stephen Banks makes a clearance off the line.

25 mins - Newton and Carr collide as they combine to snuff out a Tony Stephenson chance.

33 mins - Duncan O'Brien gives The Mariners the lead. Newton in the visitors goal spilled the ball under pressure from Stephenson. Stephenson then played the ball to O'Brien who coolly slotted it home for his first ever goal for the club.

35 mins - Southern almost pulls it level after a poor pass from Banks presents him with a run on goal. Carmichael parries the shot and Stoneman cleared the danger.

A proper old fashioned shoulder charge

Making a fist of it

It all seemed good at half time. The home fans were hopeful that Shields could kick on in the second half.

Stoneman takes to the air

Banks makes a last ditch lunge

Second Half Highlights

47 mins - A good cross from Shandran finds new signing Benjamin, who came on as a second half substitution, in a dangerous area. Benjamin turns it in from 6 yards. 1-1.

53 mins - Scroggins fires in a good effort from 20 yards but his shot is saved by Newton.

54 mins - Stewart shoots from 12 yards out but Carmichael was equal to it.

57 mins - Benjamin finds himself in a lot of space on the edge of the area and takes his chance well to make it 1-2.

58 mins - Southern squanders a great chance after some good work from Shandran.

59 mins - Scroggins fires a free kick from 25 yards towards the Bedlington goal. Newton saved well to his left to stop it flying in to the top corner.

62 mins - After a scramble in the box, Stephenson reacts quickest to poke home an equaliser. 2-2.

64 mins - Southern unleashes a fierce shot from a full 30 yards which flies past an outstretched Carmichael to make it 2-3. It was a superb strike.

68 mins - Benjamin was put clean through. he headed straight for the Shields goal and calmly struck the ball past Carmichael to make it 2-4.

81 mins - Stephenson fires wide from 7 yards.

86 mins - Graydon, an ex-Eire International, clears a Stephenson effort off the line to kill off any hopes of a Mariners revival.

Stoneman throws himself in to the challenge

South Shields were disappointing in the second half. The early goal seemed to unsettle them and they started to lose way. Passing became a little more erratic and when they fell two goals behind Bedlington closed ranks. Shields struggled to open them up as Bedlington shut up shop and cruised to a deserved victory.

Smith makes life difficult for Newton

Scroggins takes it on the shin

Alex Benjamin came on at the start of the second half and it turned the game on its head. It is rumoured that The Mariners had been trying to sign Benjamin this week. However he decided to sign for the Terriers. It makes you wonder what might have been.

Stephenson puts his shot wide in the 81st minute

Things have to be looked at and problems dealt with quickly as Newcastle Benfield arrive at Filtrona Park on Tuesday. They are fresh from a 5-0 spanking of Sunderland RCA today and will be full of confidence.

Bryson picks up a booking

Brabbs battles hard

Onward and upwards!!

South Shields v Gateshead Reserves - 4th August 2010

2010-08-06T13:54:00.005+01:00

Burrell lets loose

Bryson uses everything he can to get to the ball first

Gateshead Reserves were a young outfit and were going to prove a test for South Shields, especially as they had some pacey players at their disposal. Shields were again ringing the changes as they took the opportunity to look at other players.

Waiting for the cross

"I'll take it on the chin"

A very even first half saw little in the way of shots on goal. However, when the time came both keepers stood firm to keep the scoreline 0-0 at the interval. Shields were becoming more fluid as the first half progressed but weren't quite firing on all cylinders.

Scroggins fought for everything throughout the game

The second half started as the first half finished with both sides producing some good passages of play. A few more efforts on goal started to occur and Cat in the Shields goal had to be on the ball to keep the young Gateshead team at bay. However it was a substitution that changed the game. Barrie Smith joined the fray and he immediately started making an impact. Scroggins had put a fantastic effort just over the bar and the Mariners were applying pressure. A great cross was whipped in by Smith and Scroggins met it sweetly with his head to guide it in to the back of the net. 1-0 to Shields.

Rodenby legs it up the left flank

Bryson has company

Over the bar

Scroggins had been looking good all game and was good value for his goal. Smith's cameo was full of effort and nifty footwork which put pressure on the Gateshead back four. He could well cause a few problems this season! Bryson tried to get involved in the play as much as possible and covered a fair bit of ground during the match. Burnell looks as if he could cause some problems for defences this season. The back four were solid on the whole and will hopefully get tighter as they get used to each other. And Cat had a good game between the sticks.

Rodenby makes his presence felt

Shields attack the corner kick

All in all it is looking promising for this season... I guess we'll get a better idea on Saturday when Bedlington Terriers arrive at Filtrona Park for the first game of the season.

Fully committed

The legend that is "The Cat" keeps a well deserved clean sheet

South Shields v Cornforth United - 27th July 2010

2010-07-29T19:04:00.006+01:00

In a hastily rearranged game due to Morpeth Town being unable to fulfil the fixture, Cornforth United from the Durham Alliance visited Filtrona Park.

The game was pretty disjointed with new faces still appearing in the side. The Mariners scored all four goals in this 3-1 victory which only really came to life throughout the second half. A scrappy first half saw Gaffney head in to his own net to give the visitors the lead on 33 mins.

Two minutes later, parity was restored as Stephenson slammed one home from six yards.

An improved second half saw Smith put Shields in front on 75 minutes with a cracking long range effort which blazed in to the back of the net. Four minutes later Stephenson converted a penalty to make it 3-1 and pretty much game over.

Smith looked a handful all game and never stopped running. Stephenson produced another solid display and picked up two goals for his troubles. Armstrong came on in the second half and produced a confident display and Carmichael was on hand on the few occasions necessary to keep the visitors at bay.

Who knows which players will make the starting XI on Saturday???

1-0!

Stephenson fights for the ball

Clattered!

Stephenson deftly chips his penalty in to the net

Good late challenge

Smith in full flight

All legs and ball!

Rodenby stays calm under pressure

Safe pair of hands

In control

Disallowed!

I think I'll have a lie down

Armstrong whips it down the flank

Pre-Season Friendly

2010-07-07T16:28:00.003+01:00

Click the picture for closer detail.

Under 10s Tournement at Filtrona

2010-05-23T12:30:00.002+01:00

South Shield FC are hosting an under 10s football tournement at Filtrona next Saturday 29th May.

10 teams will participate in what is hoped will be the first hosting of an annual event.

This is a FREE to enter all day event. After the tournement an under 16s South Shields select will take on a touring Dutch under 16s team.

Refreshments and side events (beat the keeper/football tennis and more) will continue throughout the day.

Kicks of at 9am and football contiues till about 3pm. So get along there and support the kids and enjoy (free of charge) a day of football played with energy and enthusiasm thet cant be matched in the professional game.

Another Selection From The Brooks Mileson Cup Final

2010-05-19T09:51:00.006+01:00

With big thanks again to Ken Fitzpatrick at Dunston UTS

Brooks Mileson Memorial Trophy

2010-05-11T22:39:00.005+01:00

South Shields v Ashington - 3rd May 2010 - Brooks Mileson Memorial League Cup Final

2010-05-04T14:11:00.009+01:00

We only went and bloody won it!!

Shields fans make sure their team enter to a bit of a carnival atmosphere

Armstrong knocks it back across goal

Tony Coe fighting hard

Dunston was the setting for the Brooks Mileson Memorial League Cup Final. The ground looked in good condition, the players were up for it and the weather didn't know what it wanted to do! Still that didn't dampen the spirits of both sets of supporters who were out in numbers to cheer their lads on. It promised to be a tight encounter. Boy did it live up to its expectations!

Brabbs laying it all on the line

So laid back he's horizontal!

First Half Highlights

2 mins - Paul Dunn gets Ashington's first opportunity at goal when he heads over from a corner.

3 mins - Jonny Wightman galloped towards the Ashington goal but a great save by Dryden at Jonny's feet denied Shields an opening goal.

23 mins - Andrew Johnson broke in to the box and found himself with only Nink Lawson to beat. He kept his cool and calmly slotted the ball home. Ashington take a 1-0 lead.

24 mins - Scroggins chanced his arm from 20 yards but his effort cleared the bar.

34 mins - David Colvin fired towards the Shields goal from about 12 yards but his effort ballooned over.

39 mins - Jonny Wightman quickly turned and fired a chance from just outside the six yard box. He was leaning back and his effort went over the bar.

41 mins - Glen Taylor played a lovely ball to Andrew Johnson but he managed to put it wide from only a few yards out.

45 mins - Johnson again found himself in a dangerous position. He went one-on-one with Lawson but he made a fantastic save with his legs. The Shields stopper kept the scoreline at 1-0.

Jonny Wightman steams forward

Wightman seems to knock Atkin over with his shot!

Ashington were deservedly ahead at half time. Shields had a few chances but Ashington had been more threatening. Lawson had kept Shields close with his late save from Johnson. It was still up for grabs and the Shields supporters were keeping the faith. If they could come from behind to be Whitley Bay in the semi's, there was no reason they couldn't do it again today!

Paxton surges forward

Second Half Highlights

58 mins - After some good link up play down the right flank, scroggins found himself with a bit of time and let rip a cracking effort from 25 yards which was only just off target.

72 mins - Gareth Bainbridge skinned Michael Rodenby with pace and played a good ball in to the path of David Colvin. He sliced his shot and it went safely wide of the post.

74 mins - Tony Coe whipped in a great cross from the right wing which found Jonny Wightman's head. He got power behind the effort but directed it straight at Dryden in the Ashington goal.

75 mins - Captain Scroggins tried a long range effort which tested Dryden but he held on to the ball.

85 mins - From a corner on the left hand side of the park, Lee Paul Scroggins rose to bullet a beautiful header straight past Dryden and his defenders on the goal line to pull South Shields level. 1-1.

86 mins - A top class double save by Niki Lawson prevented Ashington grabbing back the lead. The saves were still being talked about long after the match!

87 mins - Wightman fired a shot wide of the left hand post from a quick counter-attack.

88 mins - Dryden produced two very good saves in the space of a few seconds. The first one denied Tony Coe, the second kept Scroggins from getting his second of the game.

The referee does Swan Lake whilst there's a match being played

Great reaction save from Dryden to keep Ashington in the game

Tony Coe gets a gashed eye for his troubles

Tony Stephenson proves that volcanic ash can't stop him from flying!

So extra time would be needed to try and settle this match. You really couldn't separate these two teams. Ashington were the better team in the first half, but South Shields could consider themselves unlucky not to finish it off in 90 minutes. Time to test the stamina...

Scroggins gets the equaliser with a superb header

The Captain gets a celebratory hug of James Oates

And the supporters were chuffed to little bits!

Extra Time Highlights

98 mins - A defensive lapse lets in Mark O'Dea (who has his own fantastic chant on the terraces!) who slotted the ball home to put Ashington in to a 2-1 lead.

99 mins - Wightman tried a long range effort but it didn't trouble the Ashington keeper.

101 mins - The ball was being pinged about the Ashington penalty area by Shields. Eventually it fell to Tony Stephenson who turned and thumped it home from 15 yards. Lovely finish and The Mariners were level again. 2-2.

117 mins - Steven Baptist fired the ball across the six yard box but there was nobody there to poke it home.

The referee blew for the end of extra time and now it came down to the nerve fest which is the penalty shoot-out. Both sides congregated in the centre of the pitch whilst the who's and when's were sorted out regarding the penalty takers.

Wightman was a strong presence throughout the match

Off the line... so nearly no need for extra time and penalties!

Tony Stephenson is congratulated by his team mates after scoring a great goal to make it 2-2

Right lads... who fancies it?

Niki Lawson makes the first save in the sudden death penalty shoot-out

Both sets of players look on anxiously

Lawson celebrates his penalty save. Shields were so close now...

After each side had taken the five regulation penalties the score stood at 4-4. It went to sudden death. Tony Coe stuck his penalty away, however so did Ashington. The seventh penalty was taken by Steve Baptist for Ashington. He ran up and struck it well but Lawson was equal to it and made another great save. It fell to Richard Paxton to clinch the cup. He thumped home his penalty to huge cheers from the Shields supporters, players and committee members. South Shields were the League Cup winners for 2010!

Paxton settles it.. Shields win the League Cup!

Paxton is mobbed by his team mates

You could say they enjoyed their hard fought and well earned victory

In a game that ebbed and flowed it seemed as if it was destined to come down to sudden death penalties. Lawson has been great all season, and Paxton has been a rock at the back for Shields. Nobody could begrudge them both their moment of glory.

South Shields probably just edged it over the 120 minutes. The atmosphere was fantastic around the ground all day and the supporters of both sides, along with the neutrals in attendance, made it a good natured final. The banter was good throughout and Dunston made a great job of staging the final.

Niki and Studs in joyous mood

Lee Paul Scroggins gets soaked with bubbly after lifting the trophy

Niki Lawson is all smiles after his great performance helped bring the League Cup to South Shields FC

This is the first trophy won by The Mariners as a Northern League Division One side. In fact it was the first bit of silverware in fifteen years. And it felt good to get that winning feeling back. No doubt the club will build on this success and look to push on next season. The team proved that they are a match for anyone on their day. Well done to all the players, management and committee members for what they have achieved over the last few years. And finally well done to the loyal and passionate supporters who love their club and show the level of support that many other teams would find hard to beat. Up The Mariners!!

South Shields Football Club - Brooks Mileson Memorial League Cup Winners 2010

South Shields v Whitley Bay - 26th April 2010

2010-04-27T15:59:00.006+01:00

Dunston is the new Wembley!!

Scroggins on the ramapage

Hands up if you think Shields are gonna win the Final!

A very busy Filtrona bathed in lovely sunshine

South Shields Team Line-up

N Lawson
D O'Brien
D Graham
R Paxton
J Oates
A Brabbs
T Coe
LP Scroggins (Capt.)
S Ramsey
J Wightman
C Armstrong
T Stephenson
J Perry
C Tate
C Ellison
D Meechan

Whitley Bay arrived at Filtrona on a sunny, if not a tad breezy, evening to fight for a place in the Brooks Mileson Memorial League Cup Final. Bay were beaten 3-1 on their last visit in November and would surely want to get revenge. Despite having one eye on the FA Vase final, Whitley Bay fielded a very strong side. Game on!

Scroggins couldn't quite get his head to it

Heads I win, tails you lose

Wightman keeps Kindley on his toes

First Half Highlights

15 mins - Scroggins fires a long range effort from outside of the area. Kindley in the Bay goal makes the save to his right.

24 mins - Scroggins tries again from 20 yards out but the ball flies past the right hand post.

34 mins - Adam Johnston cuts inside the Shields box but put his left foot effort just over the bar from 12 yards.

36 mins - For no obvious reason Kindley picks the ball up from a back pass, despite his own players and referee telling him not to! From the edge of the six yard box Scroggins is set up to shoot. He puts his thunderous effort just wide.

40 mins - After some good work by Ramsey, Wightman takes a shot from 15 yards out. He sees his effort just clear the bar.

41 mins - Wightman is in again but hits his shot straight at the keeper from 12 yards.

Wightman flicks it on

Graham and Scroggins taking care of business

Ramsey on the prowl

A decent first half which saw Shields create the most chances. Despite that it was still 0-0 as the referee blew for half time. Both sides were organised and cancelled each other out for large parts of the first half but The Mariners looked the most likely to score. It was looking good...

Oates leaps like a salmon

Wightman isn't ready to swap shirts just yet

Second Half Highlights

46 mins - From a Wightman corner Scroggins had a crack at goal. He hit his shot in to the ground and it bounced over the crossbar.

48 mins - Armstrong found himself in a shooting position just over 12 yards out but his shot cleared the bar.

50 mins - Niki Lawson punted the ball forward from the edge of his own area. The long kick bounced high as Kindley scrambled backwards towards his own net. Luckily for the visitors it looped over the bar for a goal kick.

56 mins - Robinson rifled the ball in to the box and Chow reacted quickest, heading the ball home to give Whitley Bay a 1-0 lead.

61 mins - Scroggins got his head to a great corner and directed it down towards the bottom left hand corner of the goal. Kindley reacted and got down well to deny the Shields captain.

64 mins - After some great work down the right hand flank, Tony Coe whipped in a cross towards the edge of the six yard box. Ramsey jumped highest to get his head to the ball and guide it straight in to the visitors net. Great goal. 1-1.

65 mins - Robinson lets rip with a long range effort that flew over the bar.

67 mins - Scroggins produced a lovely bit of skill to set Jonny Wightman free in the box. A fizzing shot seemed goal bound but it ricocheted off the left hand post.

70 mins - Graham attempted one of his trade mark free kicks from 25 yards out. Plenty of pace but it curled wide of the left hand upright.

72 mins - Ramsey threaded a superb pass in to the path of a galloping Coe. He took it in his stride and from the edge of the area unleashed a venomous drive straight past Kindley's left hand and in to the net. Wonderful goal and thoroughly deserved. 2-1.

82 mins - Lee Kerr finds himself with room to aim one at the Shields goal from 15 yards out. He strikes it well but straight down Lawson's throat.

94 mins - Referee blows for full time. Shields are on their way to Dunston!!

Scroggins lets fly

Ramsey keeps up the pressure

South Shields reached their first final in nine years after a great performance. Everyone seemed on their game and worked hard for their team mates. Scroggins kept plugging away, Lawson was ready when called upon. The whole back four functioned well as a unit and kept the visitors chances down to a minimum. Brabbs and Armstrong always made themselves available. Wightman was a thorn in the side of Whitley Bay from the first minute. Ramsey never stopped running and played a big part in the victory. Coe must have covered some ground as he was a constant threat down the right flank, tormenting his marker time and again. He capped a great performance with a goal and an assist.

Armstrong making Whitley Bay work hard

Kindley scrambles the ball away to keep it 0-0

I would also like to say congratulations to the management team for their efforts to get Shields to the League Cup Final. And also well done to the Chairman, Vice Chairman and committee members for supporting the management team and moving the club forward in a sensible and steady fashion.

Wightman never stopped harassing the Whitley Bay defence

So Dunston awaits The Mariners on Monday May 3rd (1pm kick off). Their opponents in the final will be Ashington. This will be a very tough game without doubt. Ashington have done the double over Shields this season. I like the sounds of third time lucky though... Up The Mariners!!

West Auckland Town 2 South Shields 2 - Pictures From The Evening

2010-04-26T16:55:00.006+01:00

The slope still very much in evidence

South Shields FC Team Photo 09-10 - Prints for Sale

2010-04-20T19:14:00.004+01:00

Why not celebrate the 2009-10 season by purchasing a South Shields Football Club Team Photo!

http://www.photoboxgallery.com/burnitphoto

Taken by myself, this is a chance for you to own a memento of the season. It is also a great way to keep a snap shot of club history.

There are a range of print sizes available for you to choose from all the way up to a huge A2 poster size. You can even choose to get a stylish canvas print if you desire. There is also a great range of products available, such as mouse mats, T-shirts and jigsaws!

All items are professionally printed by Photobox using high quality materials and dispatched directly to your door. You can choose a gloss or matt finish for your prints too. You may want something for your home, your office or perhaps both!

All profits made from the sale of any team photo prints or items will go to South Shields FC.

If there is a demand for this service I will look to add further match photos taken throughout the season.

So get behind your team and show your support by treating yourself to a 2009-10 team photo. Up The Mariners!!