Two late goals on Saturday were enough to put paid to a stout defensive effort by lowly Seaham Red Star and keep Shildon’s title hopes alive.
With third place Blyth Town slipping up at home to Guisborough and leaders Redcar resting, the gap to the top narrowed to six points.
Blyth, meanwhile, fell four points behind the Railwaymen, who have played a game less than both.
A tight encounter remained goalless until the 80th minute when Billy Greulich-Smith was on hand to slot home after a scramble in the box, sending a pensive home support into raptures.
Six minutes later, Andre Ardelean was on the line to tap home after a dizzying run by Elliot Day left defenders in his wake as he snaked into the box to lay the decisive goal on a plate for his teammate.
This weekend, Shildon host Kendal Town before entertaining Crook Town at Dean Street on Tuesday evening.
The leaders, meanwhile, travel to fourth place Boro Rangers on Saturday, with the hosts still just within striking range of the title themselves.
Meanwhile Shildon chairman, David Dent has released a statement on the club website announcing an immediate ban to pyrotechnics, including flares, smoke bombs and fireworks within the Dean Street stadium at all times and urged supporters to adhere to the safety policy.
Shildon & District's local community newspaper.
