Ilkeston 0

Warrington Town 0

WARRINGTON Town picked up a point at high flyers Ilkeston that may prove priceless in their attempt to avoid demotion from the UniBond League First Division.

Town's draw came on the strength of an inspired and gritty defensive performance and it means that Glenn Walker's men will retain their place in the league next season if they avoid defeat at Ossett Albion on Saturday and second-bottom Rossendale United lose at home to title challengers Telford United on the same day.

Warrington, who werwere missing five regular players because of injury as well as suspended striker Graeme Mitchell, soaked up a lot of pressure applied by the Ilkeston attack, which included former Nottingham Forest forward Nigel Jemson.

Central defenders Lee Webster and Adrian Reilly both excelled, notably with their consistently strong and well-timed tackling.

They helped blunt the Ilkeston attack to such an extent that Warrington goalkeeper Colin Flood was not forced into making a save of any note throughout the encounter.

Town twice went close during the second half to snatching a surprise victory.

Home goalkeeper Ross Turner pulled off a courageous save to smother a blistering drive by Phil Mitchell, after Dave Tickle had earlier been frustrated when his goalbound 20-yard drive was deflected behind.

Warrington: Colin Flood, Paul Clarke, Andy Tague, Marvin Molyneux, Lee Webster, Adrian Reilly, Dave Tickle, Steve Latham, Simon Burton (Michael Bird 78mins), Phil Mitchell, Chris Bermingham. Subs not used: Liam Sweeney, Anthony Brownbill.