WINSFORD United are still waiting for their first win of the season after a 1-1 draw with rival neighbours Northwich Victoria in midweek.

Daniel Boden put Blues ahead from the penalty spot after 32 minutes, while Ryan Jackson hammered home from close range in the 59th minute to ensure the spoils were shared.

Blues manager Lee Duckworth feels that a point each was a fair reflection on Monday night’s game.

“We played a good Vics side who came with a game plan in what was a typical derby game,” he said.

“They were very direct and played for set pieces which they are very good at, so full credit to them. In the first half I felt we kept the ball well and were the better side and should have been a couple of goals up at half-time. Second half they were the better side and the game became scrappy which they managed far better than us.

Northwich Guardian: All pictures: Bryn Jackson PhotographyAll pictures: Bryn Jackson Photography

Northwich Guardian:

Northwich Guardian:

“The goal (conceded) was disappointing but most goals at our level come from mistakes and we have to cut them out. Full credit to Northwich who put a lot of balls into the box and without a recognised centre back in the team the lads dug in and defended very well so a point was a fair reflection in the end.”

Blues’ manager believes they have been unlucky on numerous occasions this season.

“The results haven’t matched our performances with the exception of the Avro game where we never earned the right to play and Avro deserved all the points,” said Duckworth.

“We were disappointed to exit the FA Cup where we dominated a team (Widnes) from the league above over two games. But for some poor finishing we would have been through comfortably.

“Even in the replay we had to make changes in the game due to a few niggles but always looked in control.

“Then on Saturday we were superb (against Longridge) and should have been out of sight by half-time. We missed a number of chances and didn’t put the game to bed, but we needed to have managed the game better against a Longridge side who would have been fortunate to get a draw but then snatched three points.

“We have struggled with injuries and availability throughout August but so have most teams so no excuses.

“We are looking to improve the squad where we can, we will also see lads return from injury/holidays, key players such as Steve Jenyons, Oliver McDonough, Jack Hart, Adam Barlow, Daniel Kerr, Daniel Thomas to name a few.”

Winsford visit Vauxhall Motors on Tuesday.