Heartbreak as Shildon deny Bowes end of season glory

CROOK AND DISTRICT FOOTBALL LEAGUE

SEEING RED: Callum Tallentire
received a red card after a
bitter dispute with the referee 

THREE Shildon goals handed Bowes heartbreak in this year’s end of season Crook and District League showdown.
Shildon Railway went into the tie at Shaw Bank as favourites and proved to have too much on the day.
By half time, the visitors were two goals to the good through Michael Roberts and Wayne Whitfield.
A second half Adi Weston strike put pay to any late hopes and star man Callum Tallentire’s late red card offered an extra bitter aftertaste.
Bowes manager Geoff Thwaites was understandably disappointed with his side's only league defeat of the season but was upbeat about the commitment shown throughout the year.
He said: “It wasn't to be – we tried our hardest and we were probably not at our best. They had a strong side.
“They were bad goals to concede – mistakes really – but it’s nothing against the lads.
“We didn't expect the league.”
Bowes were pressed hard from the off and went 0-1 down to a curling free kick near the edge of the box.
When Whitfield’s strike found the top corner, the omens didn't look good.
Despite their 3-0 loss, Bowes have had a strong season with one trophy win in the South Durham Charity Bowl.
This year was also tinged with sadness with the loss of former assistant manager and club stalwart Trevor Joel.
Mr Thwaites added: “It was a good season – I wanted the league for Trevor really but I cannot knock the lads they've done really well.”
Bowes will return to action in August and their manager is keen to bolster their squad in the meantime.
He added: “We have got a few young ones involved this year and they have done really well. We're short of a 'keeper as we're sometimes relying on one or two players.
“We would like to get someone in over the summer.”