Blues make a point but it may not be enough

The 0-0 result in itself was impressive given Harrogate Town’s recent form, but it may not be enough for Trinity, who sit eight points off a play-off place in seventh.

There was to be no reunion between Gainsborough and former striker Dominic Knowles, who left Harrogate this week to move to Burton Albion.

On a sandy surface at the CNG Stadium, Trinity started the better and winger Craig Nelthorpe forced Craig MacGillivray into a fine low save after just 25 seconds.

Town grew into the game and after 20 minutes constant menace Colin Larkin found Luke Dean in the box but the attacking midfielder’s shot was deflected wide.

Fellow midfielder Paul Bolland then thwarted another direct Trinity effort with a diving goal-line clearance as MacGillivray flapped at a free-kick.

Town winger Danny Forrest could have opened the scoring before the break but he sent a sublime bicycle kick attempt wide.

Chances continued to be sporadic after the restart as former Town player of the year Dominic Roma threatened MacGillivray’s goal with a deep cross.

Matt Bloomer and Samuels then performed heroics to keep Town’s sheet clean as the ball bobbled around the Town box.

A surging Dave Merris run ended with the ball flying high over the bar before Shane Killock nearly headed into his own net, only to be saved from embarrassment as the ball trickled wide.

Town clawed themselves back into the ascendency and substitute Chib Chilaka’s introduction caused the away side problems.

The forward missed a glorious opportunity from 15 yards out after turning on his left foot, but his shot edged narrowly wide.

Larkin then saw his left-footed strike saved by Trinity ‘keeper Jason White before man of the match Adam Nowakowski had a chance denied at the death by a lunching block.

It was billed as a six-pointer but both sides left with just one.

The result leaves Gainsborough without a win in three outings, ahead of the visit of league leaders Chester to the Northolme on Thursday night.