It was honours even as Allen Hall and Oscott football teams battled out a 0-0 draw on Wednesday afternoon at Battersea Park.
After last season’s 10-1 drubbing, Oscott travelled to London with a point to prove and built a squad that the Allen Hall team couldn’t break down.
A narrow pitch somewhat hindered both teams, with Allen Hall noticeably unable to produce their normally fluid and attacking style.
Paolo Gambardella, Domagoj Matokovic, debutant Makir Ahmed and replacement midfielder Josue Garcia had the better of the midfield battle and tried to find the typically strong Ante Bulat and replacement Victor Gonzalez up front, though genuine chances were few and far between.
It was through that system that Allen Hall had their best chance when Matokovic evaded the defence and found himself one-on-one with Oscott keeper Owen Dugan, who produced an incredible stop to keep the scores level.
The Oscott attack was busy and showed good movement, but ultimately failed to fashion a genuine chance against the resolute defence of Frano Beslic, Thomas Blackburn, Garcia and subs Michael Mesa and Brendan Alvarez.
The closest Oscott came to scoring was off the boot of Allen Hall centre-half Beslic, with Allen Hall’s Robert Smialek forced to push the goal-bound volley over the bar.
Both teams were frustrated with the goalless finish, and post-match conversation quickly turned to a highly anticipated rematch in Birmingham.
Man of the Match: Owen Dugan
The Oscott shot-stopper showed control and composure throughout, before producing the incredible save that defied Matokovic and kept the scores level.
Allen Hall Squad: Smialek (IRE), Blackburn (UK), Beslic (HR), García (ESP), Gambardella (ITA), Ahmed (UK), Matokovic (HR), Bulat (HR) Subs: Mesa (COL), Gonzalez (USA), Alvarez (UK), Pimblett (UK)
