Croydon 1 Banstead Athletic 1

This wasn't a brilliant game but, to Banstead's credit, a point was important, writes Bob Lockyer.

If this had come a few weeks ago Croydon would have won, but the As have tightened up in different areas on the pitch.

Croydon's goalkeeper wasn't tested very much in the first half, which was disappointing with the players Banstead had out for this game.

Croydon didn't allow Banstead that much time on the ball, I think that was a factor.

It started well enough on a bright but overcast day, the playing surface wasn't bad for football.

Mark Rouse came for the ball a little way into the game but missed the connection, there was a scramble in the area Banstead were able to clear.

Croydon had their chances with an effort just going over the bar.

On 20 minutes, Croydon had another chance to open the scoring but it went wide.

Then two corners in succession for Croydon with Rouse managing to push them both to safety at full stretch.

A free-kick by Croydon into the area on 28 minutes Rouse managed to push the ball out but Martin Smith powered it back passed him into the back of the net.

It was important Banstead didn't concede another goal before half-time.

They had chances to level before the break but couldn't find a finish.

Second half started with Croydon putting pressure on. On 54 minutes Croydon made a substitution.

They were holding on to the ball more than Banstead.

Then a stroke of luck - a cross from Mu Mann into the Croydon area hit Joe Loyza their full-back on the foot and finished up in the back of the net.

On 70 minutes, Wallace made way for Stefan Martin.

It started to look a bit like stalemate with 20 minutes left. Croydon battled hard to break Banstead down but the As stood firm.

Croydon finished strongly but Banstead were good for their point.

Right on full-time, Carl Gibbs got a yellow card for his point of view to an official.

Banstead must realise that, when the ref makes a decision, it's very unlikely he will change it.

Banstead: Rouse, Jelly, Dilloway, Davidson, Patterson, Quintyne, Sammut, Chalke, Maan, Gibbs, Wallace, Hawkins, Martin, Summers, Owusobekoe, Graham, Amis