Shildon AFC’s final game of the year was a top of the table clash against Bishop Auckland at Dean Street and could have seen the Railwaymen snatch top spot from their rivals ahead of the New Year.
However, it was the visitors who asserted their dominance by taking a two-goal lead within the opening six minutes.
Joe Posthill halved the deficit on the half hour, but a third by the Two Blues on the stroke of half time left Shildon with too steep a mountain to climb.
Indeed, after Shildon stopper, Mark Foden, was red carded for bringing down Liam Henderson, the visitors added two more to post a heavy 1-5 defeat on the hosts and loudly proclaim their title-winning credentials.
With Shildon out of action, the league leaders have further extended their lead ahead of the Railwaymen’s midweek visit to Crook, as the Crier goes to press.
On Saturday, Shildon travel across to Penrith before hosting West Alloment Celtic next Tuesday night.
Shildon & District's local community newspaper.
