Gravesend 0 Crawley 0

GRAVESEND emerged from the festive season undefeated in the Conference but continue to struggle to find that elusive three points.

Fleet were hoping the New Year would see them put to an end a lengthy winless streak, but they could only extend it after stalemate against Crawley.

The number of games without a win now stands at 16 in all competitions although the headlines could have told of a far glossier picture had new signing Nathan Bunce’s late header not hit the woodwork.

Moments earlier, Fleet had also had a penalty claim waved away and a goal ruled out for offside as they tried everything to end the run.

The two sides were facing each other for the second time in a week, having slugged out a 1-1 draw at Crawley on Boxing Day.

Conditions were far from perfect at Stonebridge Road with Bunce making an immediate start in the side following his move from Weymouth. He was replacing Paul McCarthy who had suffered a broken nose a few days earlier against Accrington.

Fleet’s only other change from the side that drew 2-2 with the Lancashire side was the inclusion of Moussa Sidibe who came into the starting eleven ahead of Jimmy Jackson.

Despite plenty of forward running throughout the opening half there were few chances of note.

When openings did arrive the finishing was woeful as Andy Drury finished a great solo move by shooting well over Phil Smith’s goal.

Gravesend were looking most likely to open the scoring – Roy Essandoh had two great chances, first having an effort cleared off the line and then seeing a powerful shot skim wide.

The second period saw the visitors come into the match with more purpose and James Pullen made two early saves from Dean Marney and Robert Kember.

Pullen again kept his side in the match as he stretched to keep out Danny Davidson’s shot as Crawley increased the pressure.

Fleet’s run of fortune was not helped by referee Martin Yerby. First, he ignored claims for a penalty after Sidibe was challenged clumsily by Neil Jenkins. And soon after the official ruled out an Essandoh’s headed effort for offside.

Fleet’s lack of luck was further highlighted in the closing moments as Bunce’s chance to cap a fine debut was denied by the post.

Gravesend: Pullen, Protheroe, Skinner, Popovic, McAllister (Pinnock 67), McKimm, Saunders, Drury, Bunce, Essendoh, Sidibe. Subs Not Used: Lovell, Gledhill, Moore, Jackson.

Attendance: 1,496.