Shrewsbury Town make dream start to new era with Berkoe brilliance against Oldham

Shrewsbury Town’s new era began in perfect winning style as they beat Oldham Athletic in front of their new American owners.

It was a momentous day at the Meadow, following a week in which the club’s long-awaited takeover was completed.

And the American dream got off to a flying start, with Scott Davidson, his family and fellow new board members twice rising to their feet after the break as Salop sank Oldham and former boss Micky Mellon with two quick-fire goals.

Kevin Berkoe was the star of the show, heading home the opener before producing a brilliant assist for Josh Davison to double the lead. Town supporters turned out in numbers and left in full voice, chanting that their side were on their way to League One.

There was a buzz around the Meadow hours before kick-off. New owner Davidson and sporting director Brad Friedel mingled with supporters in the fan zone before receiving applause and chants of ‘USA’ from sections of the crowd as they were introduced on the pitch.

Davidson spent the opening 13 minutes cheering on his new side from the safe standing area alongside supporters. Josh Davison and Michael Golding both had early opportunities to give him and the home crowd something to cheer, but fired wide.

Town supporters then rose to their feet in the 30th minute to pay tribute to former owner Roland Wycherley’s more than 30 years of service to the club.

There were already noticeable changes to the matchday experience, with the players emerging to a display of fire and sparks. But there was little in the way of fireworks on the pitch during a largely uneventful first half. Oldham’s best opportunity fell to Mike Fondop, whose powerful effort was well kept out by Will Brook.

Michael Golding, making his first league start for Salop, was a bright spark going forward and came close to breaking the deadlock moments after the restart when his effort struck the crossbar.

Town continued to press and finally found their breakthrough in the 73rd minute. Tom Sang, who has impressed in recent weeks, delivered a delicious ball into the box and Berkoe was perfectly placed to head across goal and into the net.

Jubilant scenes followed, but there was more to come.

Just four minutes later, Berkoe was at it again. Cutting in from the left, he beat two Oldham defenders before delivering a superb cross for Davison to turn home and double Town’s advantage.

Davidson and the home supporters were back on their feet as the celebrations continued.

Favour Fawunmi spent a period on trial with Salop this summer, but a move never materialised. It was almost written in the stars that he would grab a late goal as he did to set up a tense finish. But Salop held on.

A new era, a new beginning and, most importantly, a winning start. It was a day to savour for Shrewsbury Town and one their supporters will remember.