BLAENAVON Blues' local derby against Fairfield United was one of those lacklustre matches where neither team could find the necessary spark to ignite proceedings.

Played at United's Ravine ground the game lacked both bite and quality mainly due to the referee's strong hold on the game which prevented any flowing football, and the obvious rustiness of both sides.

The Blues, who had not kicked a ball in anger since November 24, played down the slope in the first half and created two clear-cut chances, which the home keeper expertly saved on both occasions from close range.

However, it was Fairfield who went in at half time with the lead when a United corner was not cleared fully. The ball was put back into the Blues box and an outstretched leg from a Fairfield attacker diverted the ball past Lee Jones in the Blaenavon goal.

The Blues started the second half at sixes and sevens and gave the ball away far to freely, which allowed the home side numerous chances, but the home strikers failed to convert, either firing high and wide or finding Blues keeper Jones in fine form.

As time ticked away the Blues started to get some joy down the right flank with Ryan Simons and Grant Evans getting a number of good balls into the box. With five minutes remaining substitute Richard Williams fired a left foot shot into the bottom of the home net to equalise and take a point for the Blues.

Saturday's result makes it six draws from the opening twelve league fixtures for the Blues. If they want to maintain their first division status these draws need to be converted in to wins.

This week the Blues welcome Panteg to the Memorial Ground. kick off is at 2pm.