Crusaders held by Bluebirds

In this local derby, which had it's feisty moments, it was two points dropped for Hungerford. Chippenham had their chances but were unable to compete with the relentless pressing game of their competitors, who were able to win the ball high up the pitch and create chances. The Wiltshire outfit will be glad to leave Berkshire with a point. Ian Herring made two changes with Matt Berry-Hargreaves deputising at right back. Kofi Halliday came in for Dan Bailey in an attacking lineup, almost like a 4-2-4 in possession.

The hosts came out strong and Rusby netted an early goal from Kofi Halliday’s free kick. They continued to press on the front foot but Callum Gunner had a good chance to level the scores however he was denied by Adam Siviter. The strong showing continued from the Crusaders but poor finishing let them down. Zidan used his pace to good effect, gliding into the attacking third but his curling effort didn't trouble the goalkeeper. Joe Tomlinson's left wing cross only needed a touch, James Constable couldn't provide it. Chippenham hit back when a chance fell to Gunner who was once again denied by Siviter. On the counter attack Zidan Akers tested Will Puddy and the resulting corner was headed over by Josiah Dunstan.
Inside the first fifty seconds of the second half Luke Hopper tested Siviter before Chippenham grabbed an early goal when Rusby put the ball into his own net. It should’ve been two-one to the Bluebirds when Pratt crossed for Adriel George but from a yard out the midfielder blazed over the bar. Halliday then missed the host’s best opportunity when he lobbed Puddy but subsequently missed the target. The winger then had a chance a minute from time. He was set up nicely by Dan Bailey but his curling effort was palmed away from the goalkeeper and honours finished even.

It was a frustrating afternoon, of missed chances but also lots of positives to take into next Saturday's away match at Wealdstone. Kick off is 3PM.

Hungerford line up: 1) Siviter, 2) Berry-Hargreaves, 3) Tomlinson, 4) Jones, 5) Dunstan, 6) Rusby, 7) Akers, 8) Smith, 9) Constable, 10) Ferdinand, 11) Halliday

Att: 377