THIS top of the table clash was a dour affair with both clubs defending in depth with neither forwards being able to get that vital goal.

Clitheroe put Mossley under pressure in the early stages of this NWCL Division One encounter, with the lively Andy Taylor causing problems to their defence. Geoff Smith in midfield was playing his best match of the season putting good balls to his front man Paul Mullin, but the ex-Trafford player was caught offside on several occasions.

It was Mossley who should have taken the lead when the much travelled Bernie Hughes was found unmarked and his free header went wide of the post. Again the Blues were fortunate when the ball hit the post and was cleared.

Clitheroe had to regroup when the unlucky Andy Taylor had to leave the field with an injury to be replaced by player-manager Gary Butcher. Paul Mullin was unlucky when his shot was cleared off the line.

Mossley were playing the long ball game, but the Blues defence coped well with Les Thompson and Neil Baron at the centre of the action.

Geoff Smith shot wide from close range. Mossley danger man Gregg Hypolite was well looked after by Dave Sharples. The ex-Mid-Cheshire player showed some good touches and came close to scoring on several occasions.

With both sides defending well the match was not a spectacle, but it was good to watch with both sides having created chances.

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