Report & Pictures John Hopkins
WARRINGTON Rylands missed out on the chance of going top of the table after being held to a goalless draw at Stocksbridge Park Steels.
A busy fixture list meant Manager Neil Reynolds needed to rest a few players who were not 100% fit. Sadly, the number of injured players increased on a rock-hard pitch when Scott Holding hobbled off with a suspected pulled hamstring. Captain James Neild, himself sporting an injury, replaced Holding after just 13 minutes of play. Matt Regan and Guy Hall also suffered from landing on the solid ground, but continued to play on.
This was a game between teams at either end of the league, although on the pitch, they were evenly matched. The Steels played the long ball continually throughout the match and were well rehearsed in this technique whereas Warrington were missing George Waring as a target in front of goal.
Both sides had their chances to score, but Luke Pilling and Ben Townsend both brought out great saves when called upon.
Great save from an Alex Kiwomya shot
Reynolds praised the home team for their work commitment and quality and stated that it won’t be long before they win a game.
Rylands didn’t play their usual flowing game, but Reno was quick to point out the positional play of his squad was excellent. The condition of the pitch was not in Warrington’s favour with the ball bouncing high and through balls running past their target. However, a draw away from home extends their unbeaten run, and to keep another clean sheet is a bonus.
Warrington now look to their next match, which will be at The Quickline Logistics Arena on Bank Holiday Monday.
Prescot Cables will be on a high following their win over League favourites Hednesford last Tuesday and a score draw against Leek today, so Rylands have a big task ahead of them.
Rylands currently sit third in the table, one point behind leaders FC United of Manchester.
Jeanny Akpo chases down the ball
Adam Caddick in action
