Shildon AFC played their 4th friendly of the week on Saturday 26th July, when they entertained Scottish Premier League side Hamilton Academical.
This game was organised at short notice. As the Railwaymen had played a very competitive 2 – 2 draw on Friday evening against Scottish side Tayport FC, it was agreed that supporters could pay what they liked at the turnstiles for this game. On a warm sunny afternoon it turned out to be a success with a bigger than expected crowd. Even though Shildon were beaten 3 – 1 they did themselves proud against a full time professional outfit.
Included in Shildon’s starting line up was Danny Richmond, making his 2nd appearance after a nine month lay off. All of Shildon’s subs were youngsters from the newly formed junior team, with Jake Metcalfe, Robbie Williamson, David Vincent and Will Cook all getting involved in the action in the 2nd half and gaining valuable experience against good players. As expected, Shildon were under pressure from the kick-off with ex Ipswich Town striker Jason Scotland hitting the post and then star man Alistair Crawford hitting the bar.
Against the run of play Shildon went ahead on 29 minutes when Paul Connor was put through and he beat keeper Michael McGovern, firing into the bottom corner. Just before the break Hamilton levelled when Jamie Harwood gave away a penalty which Jason Scotland converted. It was a similar pattern in the 2nd half with Shildon defending and not able to get out of their own half.
Star man, keeper Keith Finch, pulled off three great saves before he was finally beaten by Daniel Redmond from a fine move on 77 minutes. Near the end Hamilton got another penalty with Michael Curier sending Keith Finch the wrong way.
Full Time: Shildon AFC 1 Hamilton Academical 3.
Shildon & District's local community newspaper.
