Melbourn held by title rivals

MELBOURN were left in sombre mood after a frustrating goalless draw against title rivals Duxford United. The draw means promotion is no longer in their hands as they must win their final game and hope either Fulbourn or Duxford draw at least one of their

MELBOURN were left in sombre mood after a frustrating goalless draw against title rivals Duxford United.

The draw means promotion is no longer in their hands as they must win their final game and hope either Fulbourn or Duxford draw at least one of their remaining fixtures.

It was a determined and performance by Mick Walker's men, with much of the game being played in the Duxford half.

The first 30 minutes were closely fought with neither team able to string a pass together on the bobbly pitch.

Melbourn's most effective weapon throughout the game was the phenomenal long throws of Andrew Gray. Time and time again the Duxford box was pelted and midway through the half confusion following a throw saw an over-head effort from Ash Bryan appear to hit a Duxford player's hand - only for a goal-kick to be awarded instead of a penalty.

Duxford attacked with endeavour and towards the end of the half a tricky shot and bounce meant Mark Ferrari had to make an unorthodox save to keep the scores level.

The second half saw Melbourn on the front foot, but unfortunately clear chances were hard to carve out.

Kris Watters shot wide when perhaps he could have squared to Andrew Morris while Watters again missed another good chance moments later when he shot straight at the 'keeper.

In the dying minutes and perhaps crucially for Melbourn's promotion chances, Mark Ferrari was on hand to make a fantastic double save following a sweeping move from Duxford to ensure the visitors left with a point.