It was never going to be easy to top the result from midweek and Barnard Castle arrived at Dean Bank in a battling mood, reports Chris Orton.
It turned out to be a bad day at the office for Ferryhill as their injury-depleted squad fell to their first defeat of the season in a scrappy, uneven game. New signing Danny Smith made his debut for the club but he and the rest were unable to prevent Athletic from losing to a decent Barnard Castle side. Keeper Luke Teare also made his first start for Athletic and looked very capable, making a number of good saves.
The away team pressed from the beginning and this paid off for them after twenty minutes when they took the lead. Athletic attempted a response with Will Houlahan’s effort clearing the bar, followed by Kieron Richardson who had his shot saved by the keeper. Ferryhill were ultimately unable to break down the opposition and went in at half-time one down.
The hosts came out playing better in the second half with Chris Devine and Richardson shooting wide. Devine’s hard work eventually paid off when he levelled for the home side. Ferryhill battled hard, but a defensive lapse resulted in Barnard Castle getting a second goal which proved to be the winner.
One of the few highlights for the home crowd was in the second half when the pitch was invaded by an unexpected rabbit, who despite an impressive turn of pace was unable to put the ball into the net.
Athletic go again on Wednesday, when they face tough opposition in Belmont at home, with a 6.30pm kick-off.
Ferryhill & Chilton's local community newspaper.
