Ferryhill Athletic lose to Deerness Valley

The final match of the season was played on Saturday 10 May against Deerness Valley, who had started their season much later than all other teams in the division, reports Chris Orton.

This fixture had been originally scheduled for earlier in the year, but had fallen foul of the weather.

Athletic only had their pride to play for, to see how high they could finish in Division One and to see if any goals could be contributed to this season’s impressive tally of 128.

Despite being a hard-fought game, the home side went down to defeat on a very hot day at Dean Bank.

A large crowd gathered for the game, including some groundhoppers from Whitby who said they they had had a very good day.

For the majority of the game, things were very even with neither side taking control.

Deerness had an early chance when a shot by them was tipped over by Leo Strange, but Athletic countered with a good shot from Reece Wilkinson.

Athletic played a good passing game, but were caught out when Deerness took the lead just before half time with a goal resulting from a free kick.

The equaliser came soon after when Kieron Richardson finished clinically to get his customary goal.

The second half continued in much the same vein, with Richardson being denied a clear chance on goal by the opposition defender.

Ferryhill were denied a clear penalty after this, but continued to dictate the play until Deerness scored again with half an hour to go.

Another good shot from Wilkinson followed, but the away side finished the scoring with a quarter of an hour to go.

Ferryhill kept going, but were unable to make a breakthrough, Joe Langton having the best chance when he headed over.

The excellent Alex White marshalled things brilliantly for Ferryhill, with Reece Wilkinson deservedly claiming the man of the match awarded.

Athletic first draw of the season for Ferryhill may have been a fairer result.

The final tally: Ferryhill Athletic 1 – Deerness Valley 3.

So, a season that hasn’t resulted in promotion for Ferryhill, but one in which they finished in the top four for the third consecutive year.

The Wearside League now goes on a break until later in the summer, and Ferryhill Athletic will regroup and prepare for next season.

Details of pre-season friendlies will be arranged for the coming weeks.

Ferryhill Athletic would like to send their gratitude to all of their fans and sponsors for their excellent support this season.