Match Report

FC United lost their short unbeaten league run losing 2-0 to league leaders South Shields at Broadhurst Park on Tuesday night but they will certainly be buoyed by a spirited performance.

On another night, the Reds’ display could have gained at least a draw but ultimately the points were well won by the team from the North East.

The Mariners showed their intent early on when Lee Mason was sent clear, Paddy Wharton saving. Three minutes later Wharton was in the action again beating away a shot from Jordan Hunter.

As the half wore on, FC started to gain some traction, Chris Doyle heading wide and Alex Curran seeing two shots go wide.

With 30 minutes on the clock, Wharton again saved, this time from Joshua Gillies and it was no major surprise when six minutes later Shields took the lead.

Good work down the right by Hunter saw him cross to Mason who tapped the ball home. Just before half time, the lead should have been doubled but David Foley fired into the side netting when sent through.

It was FC who started the second half the fastest, Curran shooting at the keeper and also seeing a shot cleared off the line after good work by Tunde Owolabi.

But Shields kept on coming and they confirmed the points with nine minutes to go. A cross from the left was fumbled by Wharton who did well to recover and save the resultant shot. The ball wasn’t cleared by FC and it fell to Jason Gilchrist who made no mistake from just inside the box.

The second goal was cruel as the Reds could feel they had probably done enough for a point but once again the game showed that you need to take advantage when on top, especially against the stronger sides in the league.

Report by Steven Wood

Website man of the match: Paddy Wharton. Made some vital saves in the first half, keeping FC United in the game.