Report

DOVER earned a point in the National League season opener against Wrexham – it could have easily been three.

Boss Chris Kinnear’s side created most of the chances only to be denied by the woodwork, a stunning goal-line clearance and some top-class goalkeeping.

The result remains Dover remain unbeaten against Wrexham, winning three while drawing two.

But it was not through a lack of trying that Whites tried to win their first opening day fixture since joining the top-flight after losing at Barrow last season and at home against FC Halifax Town the previous campaign.

Summer signing Jim Stevenson almost marked his Whites debut with a goal after his 73rd-minute shot crashed into the crossbar.

Tyrone Marsh had earlier seen his goal-bound shot headed off the line while Wrexham goalkeeper Chris Dunn had to be at his best to deny Ricky Miller and Ricky Modeste.

After a quiet opening by both sides, Miller created Dover’s first opportunity, with the striker seeing his shot easily saved by Dunn, one of nine players making their Wrexham debuts, in the 19th minute.

Dunn then produced a stunning double save to keep out Modeste’s shot and Miller’s effort from the rebound.

Wrexham did put the ball in the net just before half-time, but Shaun Harrad’s headed goal was ruled off-side.

Just seconds later, Dover almost scored as Marsh could only watch in disbelief as his shot was headed off the line in spectacular fashion by Reds captain Sean Newton with Dunn well beaten.

The second half started with Dover continuing to ask the questions and Dunn safely gathered another Modeste, who had scored on his previous two trips to North Wales, shot 10 minutes in.

Jack Parkinson’s long-range effort flew over seconds later before Whites debutant goalkeeper Steve Arnold dived low to keep out Wrexham substitute Michael Bakare’s shot in a rare bit of action for him.

Whites continued to press for a winner after Stevenson went close and Richard Orlu tried his luck from distance, but his volley flew high and wide.

Miller almost won it at the death when it needed a finger-tip save from the impressive Dunn to turn his shot away for a corner.

WREXHAM REACTION

MATCH GALLERY

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