On a bobbly pitch not fully recovered from waterlogging and faced with a strong-defence home side, Buxton had to make do with a point from a goalless draw on Saturday (February 26th). Earlier this season hosts Atherton Collieries beat Buxton's promotion rival Matlock Town, then drew with current leaders South Shields, so they continued with at least five men in defence against the Bucks.
Chances were few and Buxton's usual flowing, passing game was made difficult by the state of the ground. Diego De Girolamo, on as substitute to continue his recovery from long-term injury, came closest, with a fierce drive from nearly 30 yards out, drawing a fine save. Full Match Report HERE
"It was difficult for the players, hard for the fans," said assistant manager Damien Crossley. "It's not an excuse, but the pitch was a leveller. Still, there were positives to take and the point might prove very valuable. We need to keep racking up those points."
On Diego De Girolamo, who came on at half-time, Damien added: "Diego is getting closer in fitness terms. He showed his composure and calmness. The opposition were wary of him, not sure what to do, and he had our one good shot at goal."
Next Saturday, the Bucks travel to Bamber Bridge, kick-off 3pm. Bamber Bridge lie eighth in the league. They were Tarmac Silverland's first visitors of the season: a 3-0 home win.
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