Sholing lined up with only four starters from their FA Vase victory at Wembley notable absentee was goal hero Marvin McLean who was getting a run out with the reserves. Lewis Fennemore was given a new role at right back with Kevin Brewster slotting into midfield.

Shortwood started lively and gained the first free kick. On 6 mins Sholing had their first clear chance when Jack Smith’s throw in from the left found Barry Mason with his back to goal swivelled and his shot deflected off the defender for a corner. Kevin Brewster corner was easily collect by goalkeeper King. 4 minutes later Barry Mason was fouled on the edge of the 18 yd box, Kevin Brewster chipped the free kick just over the bar. Shortwood full back Matt Bennett was getting the better of Lewis Fennemore early on resulting in Shortwood getting two quick corners. Again a deep cross on 18 minutes was headed goalwards but cleared by TJ Cuthbertson. Matt Bennett once again got forward and his low shot was safely gathered by Matt Brown. 

The Boatmen regrouped and Nick Watts started to open up the Shortwood midfield. TJ got clear but his cross was just over the head of Byron Mason. Byron then turned provider for Nick Watts who from 30 yds just shot wide. Lewis Fennemore was getting frustrated penalised by the referee in quick succession the resulting free kick was forced away by Byron Mason and the Shortwood corner was headed over the bar. On 34 minutes Shortwood made their first substitution bring on 6’ 4” Lewis Sommers replacing centre forward James Singh. 

Byron Mason was put clear on 38 mins goalkeeper Tom King challenged for the ball inside the area Byron Mason was left needing treatment while the ball went out for a throw in. Byron returned to the fray and on 44 mins Alex Baldacchino holds the ball up but Byron puts his shot just over the bar.  HT 0-0