Crusaders pick up first point after Saints stalemate

Hungerford Town's goal drought continued after a 0-0 draw at scenic St Albans on Tuesday night.

The Crusaders have failed to score in their first three competitive games this season – 270 minutes – but the stalemate did at least secure them their first point of the season.

Danny Robinson handed debuts to defender Jerry Gyebi and goalkeeper Jed Ward, who signed on a one month loan from Bristol Rovers, as well as a first start to Leighton Thomas, who scored 31 goals for Paulton Rovers last season.

Hungerford pressed and probed but failed to create too many clear cut opportunities – a Jake Evans free kick the best of the Crusaders' first half chances.

Debutant Ward was called into action before half time, making a sharp save from former Luton Town man Zane Banton's curling effort.

St Albans, who have started with two draws and a defeat, piled on the pressure in the second half but the Crusaders remained resolute.

Ward denied Liam Sole before Gyebi and Matt Berry-Hargreaves both made brave blocks to keep out efforts from the threatening Shaun Jeffers.

Joel Rollinson provided Hungerford's one second half effort of note but his tame shot was comfortable for Michael Johnson in the Saints' goal.

Hungerford survived some late scares and held on for a well earned point to move up to 20th in the league table, one place below St Albans.

Young stopper Jed Ward was rewarded with man of the match as well as a clean sheet on his Crusaders debut.

"Mark Scott's been away, that was pre-planned, he's the best man at a wedding over in Greece," Robinson said.

"Bristol Rovers have been very, very good to us.

"Hopefully we can help Jed, and he'll be helping us, we're delighted to have him."

Hungerford welcome Eastbourne Borough to Bulpit Lane this weekend (Saturday 3pm) for what promises to be an exciting contest – Borough have scored eight and conceded eight in their opening three games and will arrive in Berkshire 15th in the table.