Friday, August 27, 2004

WORCESTER City were forced to settle for a goalless draw when they entertained Stafford Rangers in the Nationwide North in front of their biggest crowd of the season so far at St. George's Lane last night.

The 1,206 fans saw a generally a low key game with chances very much at a premium.

There was not too much flowing football on offer, but neither side could be faulted for their effort and both clubs will consider it to be a useful point won.

Stafford probably had the best two chances in the first-half. Former Hereford United player Neil Grayson should have done better when he hooked a left-footed effort wide after Craig Wilding had headed down Dennis Pearce's deep left-wing cross.

Then Wayne Daniel was well placed but, just when he was about to shoot, referee Keane blew for half- time.

City's best effort came when Les Hines rifled a 25-yard drive across goal after a Jai Stanley right-wing cross. Adam Webster also sent a couple of headers over the bar, but defences were very much on top.

Worcester struggled to find any fluency for most of the game, with Stafford's midfield dictating play with their strong running and solid tackling being a particularly feature.

Stafford's Craig Lovatt had an early chance in the second-half but his cross-cum-shot was safely gathered at his near post by keeper Danny McDonnell.

City responded immediately but Paul Carty's 25-yard drive lacked both accuracy and power and posed no problems for goalkeeper James Lindley.

Stafford then had two good opportunities to go in front. First Robin Gibson's dangerous right-wing cross was well saved by McDonnell, under pressure from Grayson, and then it was the experienced striker himself who headed against the bar. From the rebound Wilding's shot was deflected for a corner.

City did create what was to be the final chance when Leon Kelly got in behind the Stafford defence from a Hines free-kick, but he was unable to get a touch and the ball ran through to Lindley.

City: McDonnell 7, Warner 6, Hines 7, Hoyle 7, WOOLLEY 8, Carty 7, Colley 5 (McDonald 75), Stanley 6, Webster 6, Kelly 6 and Lyons 7. Subs (not used): Davies, Hobbs, Khan, Skyers.

Attendance: 1,206.