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With the imminent demise of Barry Town,
Bangor City are grappling to lead the title charge this year
but some stout defending by ten-man Afan Lido saw the Blues
stutter at the first hurdle.
A 0-0 draw, a product of a scrappy game
largely confined to a hefty midfield battle, was all either
side could manage as they fought to overcome both a heavy
pitch and the humid weather.
Referee Steve Hames booked eight and
dismissed one as both Bangor and Lido resolved to competitive
challenges in midfield. Chris Pridham received his marching
orders with twenty minutes remaining after his second yellow
card, received after fouling Alan Goodall near the centre
circle.
Lido, fielding a mixture of youth and
experience and handing a debut to impressive striker John
Felton, were on the back foot for much of the game and hand to
contend with numerous Bangor City attacks, most of which never
materialised. They were, however, gifted with the luck that
mostly deserted them throughout the whole of last season. Paul
Gedman, Bangor's new signing from TNS, was unlucky to see his
blistering shot cannon back off the crossbar after just a
quarter of an hour, whilst Lee Hunt also saw an effort denied
by the woodwork after half time.
Lido also created their chances, Kevin
Bartley looking the most lively up front, but twice he saw his
efforts gathered comfortably by goalkeeper Phil Priestley.
Chris Pridham also came close moments after half-time with a
25 yard shot that sailed over the crossbar.
With Pridham off the field, Lido were forced
to defend but Bangor failed to penetrate the lines leaving
both sides with a point on the opening day.
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