In truly horrendous weather conditions on the back of Storm Darragh, Ferryhill Athletic travelled to Darlington to take on Darlington U23 in the second round of the Clem Smith Bowl, determined to defend last season’s victory in the final, reports Chris Orton.
In what must have been one of the last local matches standing last weekend, thanks to Darlington’s 4G pitch, a depleted Athletic squad battled against the elements and a very capable opposition. Both teams fought bravely against the elements but given the weather, it was never going to be a classic.
The teams were fairly evenly matched in the early stages, but Ferryhill didn’t really test Mason in the Darlington goal. Jacob Crowle pulled off a terrific save to deny Darlington when he palmed a fierce shot onto the crossbar. Alex Quinn went close for Ferryhill soon after and was unlucky not to score. But it was the hosts who took the lead when they managed to slide the ball into the Athletic net. However, this did not deflate the away side as they equalised half an hour in through a belter from Billy Snaith.
A positive spell of play followed for Athletic before the ref blew for half-time. Conditions were no better during the second half, and the home side once again took the lead after Ferryhill lost possession. Darlington looked impressive and must be amongst the favourites for promotion from their division, but Athletic stepped up a gear and it wasn’t long before Adam Morland equalised with another fine finish.
Just when it looked like the game was set to go to penalties, Morland struck again with a fantastic looping shot that saw the ball go high over the Darlington keeper before depositing itself in the back of the net.
In truth, the game was very lucky to even go ahead and it was very encouraging to see a small band of away supporters in attendance to cheer the team on, who gave a solid, united display.
Billy Snaith took the honour of Man of the Match and Athletic progress to the next round. But prior to that, they have their final league game before Christmas on Saturday 14th against i2i International Soccer Academy in Newcastle. Kick-off is 12.30pm and you should set your sat nav for NE7 7XA.
Ferryhill & Chilton's local community newspaper.
