Report: South Shields 5-1 Farsley Celtic

National League North, Saturday, November 23, at the Cloud Arena.

The Celts made their way up north to face South Shields, braving chilly and windy weather, even though several other matches in the league were called off because of the poor conditions.

The Celts were pleased to have Joao Silva return to the sidelines since Dylan Youmbi was unable to play, allowing Isaac Abankwah to make his debut for the team.

The Celts began the match with a sturdy defense that stifled the home team’s chances to score. However, despite this strong start, Crossley managed to find the net with a well-placed header from a corner kick, putting his team ahead 1-0.

The home team applied significant pressure and extended their advantage in the 20th minute. Blackett made a swift cross from the right, allowing Crossley to net his second goal of the match. This came after a strong defensive effort that had previously maintained the score at 1-0.

Three minutes later, Blackett scored again with a shot from the edge of the penalty area that sailed into the far corner of the goal.

The Celts were impressive on the right flank, and with Abankwah and Campton-Sturridge working together, they were generating chances that unfortunately went uncapitalized.

The home team increased their lead to 4-0 in the 33rd minute when Crossley made a fast run and passed the ball to Blackett, allowing him to net his second goal.

Ryan Watson and Hayden Pickard were substituted in at halftime, and just seven minutes into the second half, the Celts regained a goal thanks to their energetic start. Stephenson created some room on the right side of the penalty area and delivered a low cross that reached Aaron Pickles, who scored his first goal for the club, narrowing the deficit.

Just a minute later, the home team sealed their victory by pushing the ball up the field, where it landed at the feet of Martin Smith, who netted the fifth goal for his side.

The Celts became more menacing as the game progressed, especially during counterattacks, thanks to Joao Silva's entry as a substitute. His nimble footwork caused significant challenges for the opposing defenders.

The Celts almost scored again when Lewis Turner got a chance from a corner taken by Ryan Watson. Positioned at the edge of the box, Turner aimed for the net, but his shot was brilliantly saved.