Shifnal Town FC vs Congleton Town Match Recap - Dec 26, 2025

Shifnal Town Dominates Congleton Town, Solidifying Playoff Aspirations

Shifnal Town FC showcased their attacking prowess with a decisive 3-1 victory over Congleton Town, marking a significant step in their quest for playoff contention. This win not only boosts their confidence but also highlights their ability to convert potential into points, a crucial factor as they navigate the competitive landscape of the Non League Div One - Northern West.

Tommy Jones emerged as a key figure for Shifnal, continuing his impressive form after netting twice against Kidsgrove Athletic just weeks prior. His ability to find space and create opportunities was evident throughout the match, reinforcing his status as a player to watch. With this performance, Jones has now contributed significantly to Shifnal's recent scoring surge, which has seen them net 12 goals in their last five outings.

Congleton's struggles were evident, particularly in defense, where they have conceded 34 goals this season. Despite a recent win against Sporting Khalsa, their inability to maintain defensive solidity proved costly. The team has been plagued by inconsistency, with only one win in their last five matches, leaving them precariously positioned above the relegation zone. This defeat further complicates their efforts to escape the lower half of the table.

Shifnal's recent form has been characterized by a mix of draws and wins, but today's result signifies a potential turning point. After weeks of frustrating draws, they finally converted their chances into a convincing victory. The team's average possession of around 55% in recent matches has translated into effective attacking play, but they must continue to refine their finishing to capitalize on this momentum.

Adam Thomas, who recently scored his first goal for Congleton, struggled to make an impact against Shifnal's organized defense. His inability to find space and create scoring opportunities reflects Congleton's broader issues in attack. The team has relied heavily on counter-attacks and individual brilliance rather than sustained pressure, which has hindered their ability to compete effectively against stronger opponents.

The tactical battle played out as expected, with Shifnal exploiting the flanks and utilizing their speed to challenge Congleton's slower defenders. This strategy paid off, as they consistently created chances and forced errors from the opposition. Congleton's attempts to park the bus and counter were largely ineffective, highlighting the need for a more cohesive approach moving forward.

Looking ahead, Shifnal will face Darlaston Town next, where they will aim to build on this momentum and solidify their playoff aspirations. Meanwhile, Congleton must regroup before their clash with Kidsgrove Athletic, where they will need to address their defensive frailties and find a way to convert chances into goals if they hope to climb out of the relegation battle.

This match serves as a reminder of the fine margins in lower league football. Shifnal's ability to capitalize on their chances while Congleton faltered under pressure illustrates the ongoing narrative of form and redemption that defines this league. As both teams move forward, the stakes remain high, with every point crucial in the race for survival and promotion.