manager Andy Butler gave credit to Peterborough United after they held his team to a 0-0 draw at the Idverde Training Ground last Sunday.
Both sides cancelled each other out in a tight yet entertaining game in which there were few clear-cut chances. Butler made some changes to freshen up the squad following the Huddersfield defeat, but was frustrated that the Belles couldn’t make the breakthrough against a stubborn home side.
“We never really clicked. Overall we didn’t really create much or do enough to test their keeper. It wasn’t for the lack of trying, and I will never question the attitude of the players, but for some reason we never really penetrated.
“It’s disappointing from a team that has scored lots of goals this season, and I know the players are disappointed, but full credit to Peterborough – they set up well, didn’t allow us space in behind their back three and had a few chances themselves.
Defences were on top for most of the game, with the best efforts for the Belles falling to Nadia Khan and Charlotte Dinsdale who both hit the woodwork. Lauren Breen and Sophie Bell also came close with shots just over the bar. The Posh nearly nicked the points at the end with a powerful free-kick that luckily for the Belles hit the post and went out.
Butler said: “Peterborough have shown over recent games that they are an improving side – that’s five games unbeaten for them now and they made it hard for us today, so fair play to them.
“However, it’s still a point on the road with a clean sheet, and we’re still in with a shout for the title with three big games to go.
Watch Andy Butler’s full post-match reaction on Donny Belles TV at:
https://youtu.be/R6ZAvGpPuvc