MATCH REPORT: SOUTH SHIELDS 1-0 BUXTON

Paul Blackett nets pivotal penalty inspiring Ian Watson’s Mariners to reach Play-off final 

The Mariners prolific marksman netted the only goal in what was an extraordinary semi-final clash between the two teams. 

A crucial penalty in the 41st minute by the Shields’ centre-forward proved to be the goal which took the hosts to the National League North play-off final. 

Coming into Saturday evening’s tie, Shields made many changes to their lineup - their very own superstar, Will Jenkins was out of the squad, the lineup too, saw David Carson return to action as well as Jack Roles being introduced to the starting 11.

The Mariners started tremendously. Watson’s side were controlling the tempo of the game fantastically and just 22 minutes had passed before they crafted their first opportunity to open the scoring. 

The chance began with Blackett who worked the ball out to Sonny Finch down the right, who immediately fizzed in the ball to Sean McGurk patiently waiting in the box, however McGurk’s effort, unfortunately for home fans, strayed wide. 

Soon after the hosts’ came close to the opener once more, this time, it was Finch who set up Blackett for the opportunity.

Immensely, Finch won his battle in the air, allowing the ball to fall kindly for Blackett who looked certain to latch on, however a fast-anticipating Joe Young beat the striker to the ball.

Blackett then, who’d just recently came close, nine minutes later, found the opening goal for his side. 

After beautiful work down the left side displayed from both Oliver Bainbridge and McGurk, the Mariners were awarded a penalty after McGurk was taken out inside the box. 

Undoubtedly, and to no one’s surprise in the 1st Cloud Arena, the penalty was firmly dispatched by Blackett. 

The second-half was one which saw the Mariners play sublime football, however create little to no chances, however - defending superbly, which they did exactly. 

So much so that six minutes into stoppage time, Bainbridge produced an unbelievable goal-line clearance, a match-winning piece of defending from the left-back. 

South Shields: Watson, Tinkler, Bainbridge, McGurk (Wheeldon 85’), Blackett (Morse 77’), Mann, Finch (Kelly 65’), Alcock, Dodds, Carson, Roles (Scott 69’)

Buxton FC: Young, Trueman, Flint, Ward, Burton, Johnston, Kirby, Coleman, Brennan, Bardell, Douglas

Unused substitutes: Sheik, Sykes, Robson,

Goals: Blackett 41’ 

Attendance: 2329