Points shared on the road in 0-0 Stalemate with Stafford Rangers

Credit: Kate Tencza

By Cai Wilshaw

The Bucks started the match in a tedious manner, after a moment of sloppy distribution from Tony Thompson could’ve led to an opener for the home side, however the following Rangers play was victim to the linesman’s flag.

It didn’t take long for Thompson to return to form though, after reacting quickly to parry away a miss-hit cross struck by O’Hanlon.

In a tough first half for the home side, with Storm Amy playing it’s part in the spectacle, Sean Smith stood out strongly, denying multiple Rangers’ long balls and often resorting to a last ditch tackle which were executed in style.

On the stroke of half time, the Bucks’ number 9 seemed destined to put the away side a goal to the good. Dior Angus found himself with loads of time to set himself and strike past the home sides shot stopper but somehow the forwards effort was met by the block of a Rangers defender.

The second half saw a reminiscence of Rory Delap down in Staffordshire as Rangers continued to push for an opener through the long throw.

Thompson continued to keep the point in tact for the visitors, reacting brilliantly to an O’Neill header which bounced right in front of Bootle’s number one before it was scooped away.

From then, Bootle pushed on and started to threaten the Rangers goal. Joe Woolley’s low cross deflected off a Rangers man and struck the post before being scrambled off the line.

Bootle’s number one then had to bail out the Bucks again, narrowing down the angle for Wilson whose shot was blocked by the Bootle keeper.

Decisions seemed to be going the other way for the visitors which eventually built up frustration for Bootle head coach Alan Morgan who found himself sent off following an altercation with the linesman.

The chance to take all three points back up the M6 fell to the visitors very own Dior Angus. A spectacular move from Smith made its way to the number 9 who on the half volley smashed the ball straight at Davies to finish off an evenly matched evening at the Stan Robinson Stadium.

Next up for the Bucks will be Vauxhall Motors for yet another away trip where Morgan’s side will be looking to record all three points.

Final Score: Stafford Rangers 0-0 Bootle