Shields leave it very late to claim victory
A GOAL in the 90th minute for champions-elect South Shields enabled them to snatch a 3-2 victory at Prudhoe Town.
Shields went ahead after only 90 seconds, Alex Fontaine running down the right and crossing for Dionne Fleming to finish low from six yards.
Elizabeth Fraser and Fleming went close to adding a second while Prudhoe probed at the visitors’ defence.
The second period started with two quick goals, Prudhoe on level terms within two minutes of the restart.
A precise through ball by Emily Henderson found Melissa Scott who chipped over the goalkeeper, just inside the box, for the equaliser.
However, two minutes later South Shields were back in front.
Paige Lester crossed for Fontaine, who curled the ball past the goalkeeper.
Samantha Garcia went close before Prudhoe equalised again 15 minutes later.
A short pass left defender Laura Howe in trouble, her attempted clearance charged down by Maria Stamp – who then ran towards goal and powerfully shot past the goalkeeper from outside the area.
Soon afterwards, Stamp crossed for Catherine Johnston but her glancing header went wide of the far post as Prudhoe looked for a winner.
A point apiece looked likely until Fontaine crossed for Nina Garthwaite.
She was challenged but the loose ball fell kindly for Fleming to score from close range and keep her team’s five-point lead intact.
Boro Rangers are the only team who can still catch South Shields after winning 3-1 at York RI.
Goals by Vicky Gunn, Rebecca Stephenson and Robina Todd kept the Teesside outfit in the hunt.
Boldon CA Villa’s title dreams are over after they suffered a shock 1-0 home defeat to lowly Blyth.
In Blyth’s final game of the season, Lauren Robson hit the winner which moved Blyth three points clear of Guisborough.
Consett comfortably prevailed 7-0 against bottom side Guisborough.
Nicole McEvoy netted four times with Beth Wilson, Olivia Bruce and Jodie Wright all scoring.
Another win on Sunday against Consett will see South Shields crowned champions and secure promotion to the Premier Division.
For Rangers to steal the title, they need to win their last two matches and hope South Shields drop points in their final two home fixtures.