Two of the Northern Premier League's leading defences cancelled each other out as Buxton travelled to Atherton Collieries for a 0-0 draw.
Both teams were organised and regimented from the off, with chances limited for both teams throughout the first half, and neither team even able to muster a threatening spell of possession until the second half. Buxton struggled to gain a foothold against the tough-pressing Collieries, whilst the experience of Blues center-half and captain Josh Granite likewise limited opportunities for the hosts.
To an extent, the game began to open up in the second half, as both teams began to take more risks in hunt of a winner, but in truth a major goalscoring opportunity never came, with the only notable half-chances being a succession of set-pieces for both teams, though these came to nothing and failed to threaten for either side.
The Collieries were bolstered in the second half by the return of forward Marcus Cusani, who was introduced on the hour mark to make his comeback from injury, and he looked sharp in combatting a tiring Bucks defence.
Both managers will walk away proud of a solid defensive performance, and credit must also be due to the new Skuna Stadium ground-staff, lead by Martin Devine, who worked tirelessly during the week to repair and prepare the pitch following the tough weather of recent weeks.
Bolton Arena Football Man of the Match: Clive Smith, sponsored by M Riley Plumbing & Heating
Both managers will walk away proud of a solid defensive performance, and credit must also be due to the new Skuna Stadium ground-staff, lead by Martin Devine, who worked tirelessly during the week to repair and prepare the pitch following the tough weather of recent weeks.
Bolton Arena Football Man of the Match: Clive Smith, sponsored by M Riley Plumbing & Heating
The Colls: Danny Taberner, Clive Smith, Gaz Peet, Joel Amado, Danny Lafferty, Luca Defreitas-Hansen, Ethan Kershaw, Danny Lambert, Zack Clarke (57' Marcus Cusani), Jack Lenehan & Aaron Smith (57' Declan Daniels)
Subs (unused): Scott Sephton, Niall Battersby, Matty Gillam
Report: Rob Clarke
Photo: David Featherstone
