Ellesmere boss hails draw with leaders Church Stretton

Mike O'Reilly and (inset) man of the match against Church Stretton, Jimmy O'Reilly. <i>(Image: Ellesmere Rangers FC.)</i>
Mike O'Reilly and (inset) man of the match against Church Stretton, Jimmy O'Reilly. (Image: Ellesmere Rangers FC.)
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Ellesmere Rangers boss Mike O’Reilly says he was “a really proud manager” after his side held Salop Leisure Shropshire Premier League leaders Church Stretton to a draw on Saturday.

The Swans could have won the game but O'Reilly was happy with a point from a goalless draw.

“The first half we dominated, missed a host of chances and should've been out of sight,” he said. “The second half was a little more even but with us still having the lions share of possession and chances.”

O’Reilly added. Stretton were handed a lifeline on the hour when the referee pointed to the spot. “Stretton did miss a penalty on the hour mark but it was a highly debatable refereeing decision that awarded them one.”

The result means Ellesmere have now taken points off the leaders in both meetings this season.

“That's both games we've drew against Stretton this season and the only team in the league to take any points off them,” O’Reilly said.

Attention now turns to a local derby against Llanymynech this weekend.

O' Reilly said: “They may be bottom but they have some very experienced players who can cause trouble to any team. With it being a local derby as well, they will be up for it straight away and also wanting a bit of revenge after our seven nil win earlier on in the season.”

O’Reilly also confirmed there was no breakthrough in the transfer market before the weekend.

He said: “Unfortunately, we didn't get the signing over the line. We're working on one or two but nothing of note at the moment.”

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