The top of the table clash in the Wearside League First Division took place at Hall Lane on Saturday, reports Chris Orton, but with a Ferryhill squad missing nine players making the short trip to title favourites, Willington.
It was a tough match from the start, with both sides determined to maintain their league positions, but with their depleted squad, it was always going to be an uphill struggle for the visitors.
Athletic came up again a strong, organised Willington team but the sides were very equally matched early on.
But it was the home team who took the lead with a goal from Knowles after eight minutes, punishing the Ferryhill defence.
Willington looked the better team at this point with much of the play coming down their left.
Athletic made it too easy for for the hosts at times, but always matched the opposition in terms of endeavour with Danny Smith’s effort hitting the bar ten minutes from the break.
Ferryhill were kicking uphill both metaphorically and literally in the second half, but came out with a positive attitude and the play here was more equal.
However they found themselves two behind when former Ferryhill player Kieran Harnett got a second for Willington.
New signings Matty Ashcroft-Brown and Aidan Barrass made their debuts from the bench, joining fellow new signing David Gibson, who started from the off and was impressive in his first game.
Recent addition Niall Seymour also put in a good shift that deserves a mention.
Matthew Agar made a return from injury for a brief appearance towards the end while Billy Snaith put in a fine performance, as did Kieron Richardson who gained yet another Man of the Match award to his growing collection.
There was certainly no shame in losing to a team who have yet to drop a point this season, and although Athletic have now been knocked off the top spot they have occupied for most of the season so far, there are two clubs promoted at season’s end and a long way yet to go.
Ferryhill, fought well throughout, and will hope for a better result when they have the pick of their players in the return fixture at Dean Bank on 26 October.
Next up for Athletic is a home tie against Newton Aycliffe YFC Senior this Saturday, with kick-off at 2pm.
Ferryhill & Chilton's local community newspaper.
