STRATFORD TOWN began the year with a goalless draw against Bromsgrove Sporting in a game of few chances in front of over 1,000 supporters at the Arden Garages Stadium.
Bromsgrove almost snatched the points in injury-time when Callum Ebanks hit the crossbar but Stratford held on to secure a point.
The result means the Bards are now 11th in the Southern League Premier Central table, seven points clear of the relegation zone.
In a game of few chances, there was little to enthuse the large Bank Holiday crowd whilst Stratford have now gone five hours and 15 minutes without a goal since Joe Magunda scored at Leiston last month.
It was a case of defences on top as both teams struggled to create a clear cut chance in the opening 45 minutes.
William Dawes came closest for Stratford when he robbed Connor Taylor of possession and saw an effort saved by Rouslers goalkeeper Oliver Taylor.
That would mark the Bards only shot on target in the opening period.
The second half was similarly lacking in quality with chances at a premium as Owen James and Kynan Isaac were both denied by Taylor.
Stratford keeper Murphy Mahoney made a fine save from Josh Quaynor’s 25-yard effort before Ebanks headed against the crossbar in the third minute of time added on.
Prior to that result, Stratford were edged out 1-0 by league leaders Banbury United courtesy of Jack Stevens controversial 41st minute penalty.
Town keeper Mahoney came together with Banbury’s Chris Wreh and despite appearing to make a fine save, referee Liam Corbett pointed to the spot.
However, Tim Flowers’s side were unable to find an equaliser in the second period despite a resilient display from the Bards.
Stratford are next in action at home to Coalville Town on Saturday, January 8 with kick-off at 3pm at the Arden Garages Stadium.
