Pickering Town reserve team coach Richard Rose was praised last night for his work with the under-19s after eight players aged under 20 finished a valiant 0-0 draw in the Pikes' Northern Counties East League premier division match at Buxton.

Five key players were forced out of Pikes' line-up due to unavailability and Adam Russell and Steve Swales both picked up early injuries, causing boss Steve Brown to turn to the junior contingen.

He said: "There were 450 people there supporting Buxton and it was quite intimidating but they handled everything well and were a credit to the team and especially Richard Rose, who develops the youngsters. He's done a great job."

The draw means the Pikes can finish no lower than fifth in the premier division, and could finish as high as third with a win against Eastwood Town on Saturday.

Goole's scheduled match against Mickleover Sports last night was postponed until tomorrow night.

Updated: 11:18 Wednesday, April 28, 2004