Shilbottle beat the holders for semi spot

SHILBOTTLE CW 2

Shilbottle progressed to the semi-finals of the NFA Minor Cup with this hard fought victory over the current holders at a windswept Cochrane Park, Newcastle.

Shilbottle kicked off into the teeth of a very strong wind and found it difficult to make much headway. Chances were limited for both sides with defenders coping well with the conditions.

Matty Graham had a header saved by the University keeper before Ryan Douglas missed a good opportunity when he miskicked in front of goal. However, it was the University who took the lead after 35 minutes in rather fortunate circumstances. An inswinging corner from Keith Douglas clipped the head of Shilbottle’s Ryan Douglas before deflecting into the net for an own goal.

The Colliers had an opportunity to draw level just before the break but Joe Henderson’s effort was well saved by the home keeper.

Shilbottle applied severe pressure on the University defence in the second half and with 15 minutes remaining they finally drew level when the ball dropped in the box for Josh Hay to prod home.

Five minutes later Shaun Straker saved a ball on the line and his long clearance was seized upon by Hay, who raced away to round the home keeper and net the winner.