Dunston and Clitheroe play out a goalless draw.

The morning had started with unseasonably mild temperatures,  The Gateshead Riviera swathed in the  magisterial beauty of sunshine, fans of the sliders and socks combo no doubt encouraged to sport their fashion footwear choice amongst the splendour of The UTS Stadium, as Dunston FC welcomed 7th placed Clitheroe in The BetVictor Northern Premier N/West Division.

Chris Swailes’ side headed into the game on good form, having picked up nine points from their last four games and with the home side eager to continue on their course to push up the table, confidence was high amongst the players. Conversely, Clitheroe’s good run of form had stalled over January, resulting in the Lancashire based outfit  dropping out of the play-off zone.

The general consensus of the game elicited comments such as “You’ll not have much to write in your match report Dan” and sure enough those comments bare truth in the fact that nothing of serious note happened. As goalless draws go, this was the epitome of a drab goalless draw. That said the result sees Dunston move up one place ahead of City of Liverpool and credit to Dunston in gaining a clean sheet.

Clitheroe struck the first shot in anger towards  goal on 49 minutes, fizzing a low drive wide of the upright.
Dan Halliday's volley from inside the box in the first half was Dunston’s best chance in the opening 45 minutes.

The temperatures dropped come the start of the second half, but from the warmth of my press box, and with the luxuries of it’s heater, your’s truly was unaffected. With the club shop stocking a fine selection of beanie hats, those who were sensible enough to purchase one of the delightful accoutrements were no doubt ensured warmth as the temperatures dropped amidst the delights of The UTS Stadium. For the record, the club shop is open match days, why not venture in to purchase a smashing Dunston FC piece of merchandise, you’ll look smarter than a rat with a gold tooth if you do.

Scott “Hesiñho” Heslop had the home sides best chance of the second half, Luke Page playing a delectable ball over the defence and with Heslop timing his run well, Clitheroe keeper Thompson was out  quickly to block, the ball pinging off Heslop to go out for a goal kick.

And that folks, was pretty much it. On a plus point, defensively Dunston were solid. Another clean sheet and a place up the League.

Man of the match: Michael Hall.

Michael Hall is sponsored by:

Home shirt - Penalty Box

Away shirt - Brian Sellars

Recovery equipment - Brian Sellars

Training kit - Beauty Time Photography