BLUEBIRDS SOARING AT THE TOP

CHIPPENHAM TOWN’S victory against Dunstable Town saw them maintain top spot and stretch their run of matches without defeat to 19 games.

The Blues were quick out of the blocks from the opening whistle, putting the home side under some pressure, with Joshua Oyinsan just off target on two occasions.

The Bluebirds then countered with Will Richards’ header landing on the top of the net and an Andy Sandell effort saved by visiting keeper Jack Smith. Smith was almost caught off his line by Sandell moments later and was relieved to see the ball fly just past the post.

Play fluctuated and Harry Bean – on loan at Dunstable from League Two neighbours Luton – and Vences Bola’s attempts to break the deadlock for the away team came to nothing before the break.

Chippenham were forced to field all their substitutes before the 50 minute mark, although this did not hinder their play as Richards and sub Joe McClennan both came close.

A Jake Andrews free-kick rattled the visitors’ bar as the Bluebirds pushed forward.

Then the lively Smith acted as sweeper-keeper to snatch the ball off Dave Pratt’s toes.

But a handball decision went against Nathan Olukanmi and with Sandell, Chippenham’s usual penalty taker, having been substituted due to an injury, Pratt stepped up to beat Smith on 63 minutes.

Andrews had chances to extend the home side’s lead, with Smith snatching the ball away in a one-on-one, and was again thwarted by the Blues keeper after Pratt had wriggled his way through the defence to present him with another opportunity. STAR MAN: Will Richards (Chippenham Tn) ENTERTAINMENT: ★★★★★