AFC Telford United boss Wilkin content with away point

A goalless draw on the road at Harborough Town represented a satisfactory return for AFC Telford United boss Kevin Wilkin.

Wilkin saw his side stay resolute to earn a third successive clean sheet and make it seven points from the last nine available in the National North.

“Yes, it's probably a fair result," said Wilkin. "I don't think it would have been fair on either side not to have taken something from the game, albeit I think we probably had the better moments in and around the penalty area.”

The Bucks had marginally the better chances in a game of half-chances, played in windy conditions in Leicestershire.

Wilkin acknowledged that his team’s defensive capabilities came to the fore against a tough, physical and direct Bees outfit.

Recounting the scoring moments for either side, Wilkin said: “I think they've had one that Brandon (Hall) saved from a header late on in the first half, and then I think Louis (Moult) had a moment there, caught it really well, six or seven yards out. I think Dylan (Mitchell) has forced the goalie into a save off his right boot; he's unlucky not to score there.

"I think in one or two other moments, Louis had a header at the back stick that he possibly can do a little bit better with, but they do put you under relentless pressure with any throw-in in your final third or any moment to stick the ball on you in your final third.

“I thought the way that we defended that and dealt with it and were so brave and organised. And from that point alone, it's fair that we took something from the game.”

Having started the season conceding goals that frustrated Wilkin hugely, his team has suddenly become watertight.

They last conceded against Bedford Town on August 31 after a change of formation and the arrival of former Shrewsbury Town defender Mal Benning.

A combination of the elements and Harborough’s aggressive approach tested the Bucks rigorously, but they passed the examination.

“The wind was strong, and wind spoils a game more than any other condition, doesn't it?"said Wilkin.

"Coupled together, with the fact that they are big, strong, physical and very attritional and very direct, you know you've got a whole lot to deal with there, and deal with it we did.

"The way that we were making really good first contacts, second contacts, staying organised and not allowing Harborough any real moments of opportunity was really, really good.”

Even the loss of goalkeeper Lewys Benjamin failed to derail Bucks, with the Wolves loanee injured in training with his parent club, as Brandon Hall made his first appearance in competitive action for over 12 months.

Hall missed most of last season following a broken wrist, and played his part, which pleased his manager.“(I’m) delighted for Brandon coming in after a disappointing injury for Lewis," added Wilkin

"He’s come in there and been excellent for us and great credit to the lad.”