NEWENT Town played out a goalless draw with Stonehouse on Monday, 14 January, but it was the tribute to former manager Dave Pollard before the game that stood out.

A minute’s silence was observed ahead of kick-off in memory of Pollard, who had a long association with the club. His involvement began in 1980 as the Under-10s manager, and over the years, he went on to manage the second and first teams.

Pollard later continued his support for the club as general manager until work commitments led to his relocation. His contribution to Newent over two decades was recognised by the club and supporters.

On the field, the match was a cagey affair, with both teams struggling to find their rhythm in the opening minutes. The fogy conditions made visibility difficult, but Newent had the better of the early exchanges. In the 15th minute, they won a freekick just outside the box, but the effort hit the edge of the wall and went wide.

Stonehouse had a penalty opportunity in the second half, but Newent's goalkeeper pulled off a crucial save, diving to his right and blocking the shot with his legs. The Daffs continued to push for a goal, and they came close when a corner was headed against the bar, and moments later, a shot from the edge of the box went just wide of the side netting.

As the match wore on, both defences remained resolute, and Newent had another chance in the dying minutes, but a header from a cross went narrowly over the bar. Stonehouse also had their moments, but they too failed to break the deadlock.

The final whistle saw the scoreline end at 0-0, with both teams failing to capitalise on their chances.