Hexham FC struggle to 1-0 defeat

Posted by Richard Fletcher on Oct 29, 08 12:18 PM in Sport

Hexham travelled to third place South Shields in the Re-Max Northern Alliance Division Two and were almost literally blown away, not so much by the opposition but the howling gale which total ruined this fixture.

Both sides really struggled to cope and very little constructive play was possible. The early part of the match was the best for Hexham when the wind was at its lowest, Neil Tiffin having a couple of long range efforts but not troubling home keeper Gary Jeffries too much.

To both sides' credit they attempted to keep the ball on the ground and play to feet but this game was being played out in the middle third of the pitch. It was no surprise when at half time the score was level at a blank stalemate.

The second half was an improvement but again it was the elements which was dictating the play.

A few more chances were created and Hexham keeper Sean Heads pulled off a great save to keep the scores level. He was unaware that the linesman's flag was up so it was not required but it could not retract from his efforts.

The breakthrough came for Shields but it was surrounded in confusion. A long ball was played deep into the Hexham defensive area which was flicked on to Phil Edwards who was in an offside position and he made no mistake from two yards out. Hexham were waiting for the referees whistle for a free kick but the expected decision went against them and the goal stood.

In a game of very few chances this was now a severe test. The best chance for Hexham was created by Scott Coates who beat two players as he made his way into the penalty box. With the keeper preparing for the worst Scott's effort unfortunately grazed the far post on the wrong side. That was the end of the goal chances and the game fizzled out on 1-0, and the points stayed at the coast. Junior Hallall and Richard Grant came off the bench to try and rescue a point but this was not to be.

There was not a lot between the two teams and the one goal was crucial. Neil Tiffin was the Hexham man of the match as he strived to create chances for the strikers from the middle of the park.

Minor Cup action next week for Hexham when the cup holders Shilbottle Miners Welfare come to the Wentworth for a 2pm kick-off. With the Wentworth looking in superb condition and if the weather is kind it could be an entertaining second round tie.

We'd like to hear from you.
Send your stories, pics and videos to northumberland@ncjmedia.co.uk