At the superb Guardian Warehouse Stadium this Black Country derby ended all square.

The two teams went into this game with very different recent form. Dudley were unbeaten in their last six league games, with Darlaston picking up just one point in their last six games. Despite the form book the game was an enthralling affair, the work rate of both sides was impressive and overall a fair result.

Mention should be made about the match officials. They were superb, the Referee was fit, excellent decision making, allowing the game to flow and respectful to the players. His Assistants were also fit, keeping up with play and allowing the referee to manage the game. The match officials were probably the best team on the pitch, on the day.

The match itself was a battle of tactics. Darlaston, were well organised defensively, allowing Dudley to come on to them and then counter attack at pace, whilst Dudley were also well drilled with a powerful attacking presence. Lewis Mitchell, Joe Scriven and Charlie Muir impressed for the home side Visiting teenage keeper Spencer Tootell saved bravely at the feet of Muir and Mitchell to keep the scoreline goalless.

At the other end, debutant Ollie Jeeves had a header superbly saved by home keeper Culleen. Jack Sang's pull back from the touchline failed to find a team mate and Nigel Hinkulow headed over when well placed.

For Dudley, Scriven was influential with his movement and passing quality, whilst Muir and Alfie Wilkes were always a threat without significantly breaching a well organised defence.

The second half was pretty much a replica of the first 45 minutes, Dudley prompting and probing without troubling keeper Tootell.

Darlaston came close to opening when a Nathan Oyemade shot hit the bar and rebounded to safety.

Overall, a much improved defensive performance by Darlaston, both sides deserving of a point.