They finished their debut campaign in the Northern Alliance League in a respectable eighth position.

After a tricky start to the campaign as they found their feet, Gareth Allen's side put together a good run of form to leave hopes high that they can challenge at the top of the table next season.

Shields's final league game saw then go down 4-1 at Wideopen, only their second defeat in just under five months.

Having been joint bottom five games into the season, United pulled themselves out of the relegation fight and at stages were fifth in the league.

Champions Killingworth were the only team to do the double over Shields, who had some very respectable results, including holding county cup holders Amble United 2-2, a great 2-1 win at Wallsend Boys Club, and a very entertaining point at promoted Cullercoats.

Allen said: "The highlight was probably the performance of the season at 100-year-old Northern League side Crook Town who only edged past us 1-0.

"Weeks later we travelled to Division One Percy Main and thrashed them 6-2 in their own backyard.

"The club has grown and the 08-09 season will see the club have an U21 academy side who will act as a feeder to the first team, and also U14 and U12s teams will be running."

The club is looking for players and coaches at all levels, and anyone interested can contact Allen on 07967143608, or visit the club's website at www.intheteam.com/shieldsunitedfc.

Allen added: "The club would also like to thank sponsors Natural Resources and Craig Griffiths at The Lake for their support."