The Owls played out their first 0-0 deadlock in 70 competitive outings on Saturday afternoon against a robust Tadcaster Albion at the Myenergi Stadium.

Although it was not a match that will live long in the memory, Clee extended their unbeaten run to 7 in the Northern Premier League and also consolidated their position in the play-off zone.

Dave Smith made two changes from the side that recorded a fluent 4-0 victory at Pickering. Liam Dickens & Scott Vernon were preferred to Harry Middleton & Jack McMenemy respectively.

The side lined-up as follows in a 3-5-2 formation:

Goal: Tom Jackson
Defence: Jordon Cooke, Paul Walker, Oli Donald
Midfield: Tim Lowe, Liam Dickens, Alex Flett (c), Sam Topliss, Loz McKay
Attack: Scott Vernon, Brody Robertson

Subs: Josh Smaller, Luke Lofts, Jack McMenemy, Josh Venney, Harry Middleton

On the back of 6 six successive NPL triumphs, expectation was naturally high amongst the home faithful at kick-off. However, as with all games in this division, every point is hard earned. This proved to be the case, on an ultimately frustrating day.

A low sun and swirling breeze made conditions awkward for the players, and chances were strictly limited in the opening half.

Donald had a couple of headers just off-target and Omolokun smartly intercepted to deny Vernon. At the other end, in the 34th minute, stopper Jackson superbly tipped over a fierce Roper drive.

The opening 45 was very niggly in truth as well, with numerous interruptions leading to a disjointed spectacle.

HT Cleethorpes Town 0 Tadcaster Albion 0

The second period was better but neither side could find the winner.

After 50 minutes, wing-back Lowe burst into the box and got off a powerful effort. Keeper Hughes did well to beat the shot away to safety.

Clee were definitely increasing their tempo in a bid to create the decisive moment. Nevertheless, a combination of stout defending, and some misplaced final balls, allowed Albion to battle their way to a useful draw.

Indeed, Tadcaster had a great chance to win it at the death, Crook firing straight at Jackson when well-placed in the area.

Not to be for the Owls but, when the dust settles, a second clean sheet in a row is good news, and the table is not looking too bad either!

FT Cleethorpes Town 0 Tadcaster Albion 0 Attendance: 262

As I said at the start of the report, not a game that will live long in the memory, for sure! However, some days are like that. I cannot recall another 0-0 draw at home. If you know of one, please give me the details.

It is certainly massively competitive in this division, so no reason at all to be downhearted. All winning runs come to an end – I think we are playing well, and I am confident that we will give leaders Liversedge a real test in midweek.

4th in the division – enjoy the weekend and see you on Tuesday evening.

UP THE OWLS!