This Is Cheshire

Surprise six-man midfield holds Dabbers to a draw

From the Guardian Series, first published Thursday 10th Mar 2005.

NANTWICH Town were forced to settle for a point at relegation-threatened Formby, last Saturday.

Adam Newton gave them an early advantage with a fierce drive that hit the net on 10 minutes but an afternoon of frustration followed.

Paul Rutter saw two goals disallowed while the Dabbers struggled against a six-man midfield and blustery conditions.

John Ackley had every right to feel hard done by when conceding a controversial spot kick, tucked away by Guy at the second attempt on 76 minutes.

In-form Matt Blake almost made it irrelevant with seconds to go.

His dipping effort looked destined for the top corner but Formby's shot stopper performed heroics to ensure a share of the spoils.

"I was a little disappointed," admitted player manager Steve Davis.

"But it was difficult conditions, the wind was terrible and it was always going to be scrappy.

"They packed the midfield, playing a 3-6-1 which is something I've never seen before.

"It's a game we felt we should have won although a couple of breaks went against us.

"Rutts had two disallowed while Matt Blake has made a great chance himself at the end and was only denied by a great save."

The Dabbers remain on the road to face Stone Dominoes, tomorrow night, KO 7.45pm.

"They're a bit inconsistent and much like us," explained Davis.

"They seem to get a good result and then slip up against someone they really should be beating.

"It's a good one where we can try and get three points and get ourselves closer to them in the league.

"We've opened up a gap on those below us but every time we get in sight of the top ten, we slip up.

"We need to try and close the gap to the top teams."

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