The green-clad Collieries put in a real shift to draw at Northern Premier League West new boys Bury FC. Can you be both be disappointed and content to mine a point at the same time?
The Stripes showed real positivity from the get go and only the fingers tips of oncoming stopper Mitch Allen stopped Harry Showman from bagging. Minutes later, Showman smashed narrowly wide with Allen rooted to the spot. Colls were really controlling the tempo with the hosts defence under some real pressure. Kielen Adams had an effort deflected away from goal, Joe Piggott’s header was well gathered and the lively Showman had another attempt blocked. As good a first half as you could ask for without worrying the scoreboard.
The Shakers had to improve after a guaranteed interval earful and did significantly but Colls still created chances. Showman’s overhead kick went narrowly over and a couple of players got in the way of each other when looking to apply a finishing touch. Bury’s attacks became more and more incisive, Kai Evans flashed one just off target with Kier Barry beaten all ends up. The Colls defence were really putting their bodies on the line with some precise last gasp defending.
In injury time, Sonny Reeves was defied bravely by Allen while Barry parried a rasping Evans effort. Niall Battersby somehow stopped Bebeto Gomes from tapping in the rebound. Evans had the last chance to win the game but his daisy-cutter scuttled to the left of Barry’s goal.
A dominant first half display should have seen Michael Clegg’s team at least a goal to the good. The second period was a more evenly matched affair with Bury certainly feeling that they should have wrested the spoils. A point apiece to keep the hosts in a play-off slot and Collieries on the periphery of post season football.
A special mention to the Colls support who were magnificent throughout. The singing was uniquely Collsy and the drum was banged into early retirement. Can they continue this rich vein of form at Stafford Rangers next Saturday? KO 3pm.
