Leigh RMI 0 Gravesend & N 0

MANAGER Andy Ford acclaimed Fleet's clean sheet but there was little else for the travelling fans to rejoice about as the club continue to tread water near the foot of the Nationwide Conference.

Neither side managed a shot on target in a dour struggle that kept Leigh second from bottom and the Fleet two points above the drop zone.

“It was a typical relegation battle with chances few and far between,” said Ford. “But we got a clean sheet away from home and that's important at this stage.

“When I put on Liam Hatch and Kevin Budge in the second half I was hoping their fresh legs might bring about a goal but it wasn't to be. While I don't make a habit of singling out players for praise, I thought Nick Burton was exceptional for us.”

Hatch went closest for Gravesend when he burst through the Leigh defence and lobbed goalkeeper Stuart Coburn only to see the ball land on the roof of the net.

Despite playing three up front, Leigh were unable to break down a stubborn Fleet defence. Louie Evans went closest in the opening exchanges with a shot that was inches off target.

Ian Monk shot over a good chance for Leigh while the Fleet's Jay Lovett stung Corburn's palms.As Leigh pushed men forward in search of a goal, the Fleet set about probing the gaps in their rearguard and put together some slick passing moves.

Skipper Jimmy Jackson was just off target with a fierce drive while Leigh substitute Neil Campbell went close.

Gravesend: Wilkerson; Lovett, Duku, Burton, Skinner; Owen, Jackson, McKimm, Strouts; Evans, Stadhart. Substitutes: Kwashi, Hatch, Budge. Not used: Turner, Wilkins.