Shildon collected their second trophy of the season on Tuesday night, 5th May, after two Billy Greulich-Smith goals won the Railwaymen the Northern League Cup to add to the Durham Challenge Cup won last month.
The match had been in danger of postponement after poor weather overnight flooded the Heritage Park pitch, but sterling work by the Bishop Auckland ground staff ensured the game got the go ahead.
The first half, while competitive, was mainly uneventful, with the best chance falling to Shildon captain Mark Hudson, but he skewed his shot wide from 12 yards.
The Railwaymen dominated possession throughout with Newton Aycliffe playing a counter attacking game.
It was therefore vital for Shildon to score the opening goal and with just six minutes of the second half played, their dominance finally paid off.
Shildon worked the ball wide, as they had throughout the game, this time to Chris Emms who twisted his defender inside and out before sending over a cross for Greulich-Smith to power high into the roof of the net.
The goal forced Newton Aycliffe to play a more open game, and they almost levelled immediately but for an excellent save from Lewis Graham. However, it also allowed Shildon more space in which to work and just after the hour, they doubled their lead.
From a throw-in, the ball broke to Jamie Harwood whose cross was only half cleared. Ben Wood’s pass found Greulich-Smith and the deadly striker curled an unstoppable shot around a defender for his and Shildon’s second of the game.
It was the tall striker’s fifth goal in three cup final appearances over the past two seasons and ensured the Railwaymen would finish their 125th anniversary season on a high after the final day disappointment in the league the previous midweek.
Shildon end a hugely successful season, which included an extended FA Cup run, finishing runners up in the league and of course being crowned double domestic cup winners.
The side will now open next season with a Cleator Cup appearance against Marske United and a chance to add further silverware to a cramped trophy cabinet.
Shildon & District's local community newspaper.
