Nantwich Town 0
South Shields 0
League (NPL Premier Division)

Match Report

Nantwich Town earned a hard-fought goalless draw at home to fellow high flyers South Shields to retain their lead at the top of the Evo-Stik Premier Division.

But it could have been more for Dave Cooke’s men who were guilty of missing a penalty in the first half in a game played in wet and windy conditions at the Weaver Stadium.

Danny Glover had the golden opportunity from the spot after Callum Saunders latched on to a Joe Mwasile through ball and was hauled down by goalkeeper Connell. But Glover (pictured) stepped up and blazed his shot high and over the bar.

The visitors began the game well and put Nantwich under pressure early on, Will Jaaskelainen being called on several times to make saves or blocks.

Despite missing the penalty, it gave Nantwich the impetus to mount their own pressure but they struggled to make clear cut chances.

After the break, it was a similar story as both sides sparred for possession.

Sean Cooke went closest just after the hour with a stinging drive which produced a fine one-handed save by Connell.

Then Nantwich were forced back and Jamie Lawrie had to block a certain opening for South Shields, before Jaaskelainen was called on again to save well at his near post.

Finnigan went close for Shields in the final few minutes, his header just dipping over.

Both sides seem to settle for a good point gained by the final whistle, as Nantwich move three points clear of Scarborough Athletic and Shields stay in seventh but with games in hand.

Match report written by the Nantwich News