Toolstation Western League
First Division
Portishead Town 0, Chard Town 0

CHARD Town moved up to fifth place despite their midweek fixture at strugglers Portishead Town ending in stalemate.

The Robins had the best of the play throughout the game but they could not find the net, with the home defence closing down well to claim a share of the points.

The visitors started brightly and created several chances in the opening 20 minutes.

Early on a good cross by Liam Cleal found Steve Friend, whose shot went just wide, and further efforts saw home goalkeeper George Gillingham pull off a couple of fine saves.

Several long throw-ins from Andy Holmes direct into the home area were not able to produce a finish, with the Portishead backline clearing their lines well and pushing forward into the Chard area, bringing a save from keeper Scott Wells-Burr.

The second half started in a similar manner, with Chard creating the best chances and most of the attacks by the home side being from breakaway efforts.

A header by Holmes was just wide of the target, to be followed by a first-time strike from Friend just over the bar.

Elliot Dyer crossed well, only for the subsequent header to go direct into the hands of the Portishead ‘keeper.

Further efforts saw a chance for Nathan Warren cleared off the line, while at the other end Wells-Burr was forced into action at the end of a breakaway by the hosts.

With time running out, Tom Salter's shot hit the bar and Warren's effort hit the post, and a final effort from Sam Smith was saved by Gillingham, to frustrate the Robins.

Chard Town: Scott Well-Burr, Elliot Dyer, Thomas Salter, Andrew Holmes, Kieran Bailey (c), Ben Haines, Max Westlake, Nathan Warren, Stephen Friend, Liam Cleal, Ryan Parris (Sam Smith 65). Subs not used: Daniel Collins, Ryan Mason.

Now unbeaten in four matches – though three of those have been draws – Chard host 19th-placed Chippenham Park at Zembard Lane on Saturday (ko 3pm).