GODMANCHESTER Rovers and Gorleston both missed chances to win what turned out to be a goalless draw at a very wet and extremely windy Bearscroft Lane on Saturday.
Horizontal rain was blown into the stands made it an uncomfortable afternoon for the fans, but a point against another top-six team is not to be sniffed at, chill or no chill.
Godmanchester have lost just once in 18 games – at home to Wisbech Town – since the start of December and confidence is high at the club. High enough even for suggestions of a title challenge next season.
“It was a fair result, Gorleston are one of the best sides in the league, but the conditions killed it today,” said joint manager Nev Nania. “I can see why they have been up there in the top three or four all season.
“We had chances to win it and they had chances. If we could have struck the ball better today maybe we would have won it.”
Paul Bass went close midway through the first half with a free kick which flew just over the left-hand upright. Adam King had a shot blocked three minutes later before Bass had another free kick in exactly the same position and this time swung in a cross which James Hall strained to get to but headed wide.
Bass’ third attempt from the same position just evaded the head of central defender and captain David Hurst.
Mike Hyem and Jordan Brockett both went close before the end of the first half, as did James Hall, who tried a cheeky flick, with the ball going over the bar.
Carl Mackney, deputising for his injured brother, Rob Mackney, made a wonderful save in the 45th minute.
It was in the second half that the weather was at its worst. The wind made it tough going and Mackney made two more great saves to keep Gorleston out. Though there was a moment of panic, though, when the goalkeeper came out of his area and tripped over the ball when attempting to clear it.
James Hall and Bass both dragged shots wide later when they really should done better. You could tell then a goal wasn’t on the cards.
“We have come a long way since the start of the season and Gorleston are still pushing for promotion so for us to be disappointed with a 0-0 draw is a good thing,” said Nania.
Aaron Greene, the former St Neots Town, Eynesbury Rovers and Peterborough Northern Star winger made his debut from the bench on loan from Bishop’s Stortford, and Nania says he and David Hurst – with next season in mind – will take a look at the player in the next few games, starting with Staurday’s trip to Brantham Athletic.
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