A goalkeeping masterclass has prevented the Northland FC men's first team from taking home an all-important win as they drew 0-0 with Albany United on Friday.
The game, held at BaySport grounds in Waipapa, was the northlanders' third consecutive clean sheet in the Lotto NRFL second division competition but their second nil-all draw in two weeks.
In contrast, the Northland FC reserve side continued their dominant form in the second division reserve grade as they recorded their third win from three games after beating Albany United reserves 1-0.
The first team's uninspiring 0-0 result the week before against Greenhithe Catimba clearly motivated Northland to attack Albany United's defensive structure with impetus - and it was effective, as the hosts created the majority of the goal-scoring chances in the game.
But Albany United goalkeeper Ben Masters was imperious in the first half, first thwarting Northland's Mark Prowse from close range after an incisive move which caught the visitors out cold.