22.8.21
Spartak 0, Wayside Celtic 0.
A resolute defensive display by the Sky Blues kept the visitors at bay as they pressed strongly in the second half. Craig Howard took off several fine saves and the back four made their share of blocks and tackles. Spartak had few chance in the second period, the best one falling to Amin Afsar, but the goalkeeper smothered his attempt.
The first half was a more even contest, with chances more evenly spread, but few on either side on target. A bright period of football saw Spartak, without some regulars, play some excellent passing football.
Ronan Buckley grew into a good defensive foil for Stephen Grier, who also had a solid game. Luke Stenson caught the eye with some timely tackles and tidy passing, while Owen Marron, as usual, was energy itself.
The visitors will wonder what they had to do to beat Craig Howard in goal, and departed somewhat dissatisfied with a point. Spartak, on the other hand, were well pleased with their display.
Form Report
Craig Howard 9 Owen Marron 8 Luke Stenson 8 Steve Grier 8 Ronan Buckley 8 Martin Rolfs 7 Jason Gahan 7 Dave Power 6 Stuart Love 7 Cian Stenson 6
Sub Kevin Cunningham 7 Amin Afsar 6
