Buxton went down to the only goal of the game at South Shields, Tuesday September 3, in spite of piling pressure on the home side. Shields' goal, a header by Aidan Rutledge, came in first-half stoppage time.
The game began slowly, with the Bucks having the edge. By half-time, they had created seven chances on goal compared to two from their hosts. A particular feature of the half was the outstanding distribution of goalkeeper True Grant (Pictured), one such clearance almost setting up Josh Popoola.
After the break, the highlight for the Bucks was a late header from substitute Sam Tomlinson which brought a brilliant full-stretch save from Mariners' goalkeeper Myles Boney. The Bucks had been controlling possession but couldn't make the breakthrough.
Team manager John McGrath said afterwards: "We were very dominant, especially first half. Our shape was good and we limited Shields to very little. But we failed to put our chances away, which is very frustrating.
"We look a capable side, playing good football, but if you don't get on to the end of balls in the opposition box you don't win matches. We'll be looking at this in training, improving communication and positioning. I'm bitterly disappointed we didn't come away with at least a point but we have a chance to get back to winning ways at home to Rushall."
The Tarmac Silverlands game against Rushall Olympic kicks off at 3pm on Saturday. So far, Rushall have failed to collect a point away from home.
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