The new season kicked off for Ferryhill at the weekend not with a Wearside League Premier match, but with a game against current holders South Moor in the Monkwearmouth Charity Cup, writes Chris Orton. Going into the fixture, South Moor had been in good form whilst Athletic had had an impressive pre-season against some good opponents.
On a very warm day, Ferryhill faced quality opposition in South Moor on a dry, wide pitch. Unfortunately, Athletic’s plans were disrupted when they lost new signing Ben Short to injury on the warm-up. The majority of the first half of the game, however, was a fairly even affair with both sides having plenty of chances. For Athletic, Michael Hogg shot just wide after four minutes with the away side showing that they were no slouches. Ferryhill almost scored when a speculative shot landed on the top of the South Moor net and Hogg again went close after fifteen minutes, Ferryhill competing well in an entertaining opening. The Athletic defence coped well with the South Moor attack, and honours were even when the referee blew the whistle for half time.
Into the second half, and Leo Strange in the Athletic goal made a great save early on to deny South Moor. The game continued in much the same vein until McCormick put the home side ahead in the 58th minute. Ferryhill battled hard, but seemed to lack a cutting edge at times, which ultimately cost them. Kieron Richardson had a fine shot saved by the home keeper, but as the half progressed, South Moor stepped up a gear, with much of their play coming down the left. A second goal for the hosts was denied when the referee blew for offside.
Ferryhill rallied towards the end of the game, and substitute Cameron Wallace had a decent attempt at goal. A borderline penalty was awarded to the home side with three minutes remaining, and despite a fine save from Strange, South Moor’s Smith was able to fire home from the rebound.
Despite bowing out of the cup, Ferryhill put on a decent performance and there can be no shame in losing to a team who have been resident in the Wearside Premier for some years.
Next up, the league campaign begins this midweek, as the Chapter goes to press, when Barnard Castle visit Dean Bank Park on Wednesday evening for a 6.45pm kick-off. That is followed by the visit of Windscale on Saturday for a 2pm kick-off while Athletic’s first away game in the league will see them travel to Durham FC Corintians the following weekend.
Chris Orton
Writing regular Ferryhill Athletic match reports.
Ferryhill & Chilton's local community newspaper.
