THORNBURY Town were denied a crucial win in their fight to avoid relegation as Karnell Chambers struck late on to earn fellow strugglers Tuffley Rovers a point.

Both started the day two points outside the relegation zone but neither were able to go further clear as former Gloucester City and Chippenham Town striker Chambers cancelled out Jim Brock's penalty late on.

It was another frustrating afternoon for Thornbury, who were denied a crucial victory over Westfields the week before in similar circumstances. 

But manager Richard Joyce was still impressed with what his side produced on the day: "We started the game quite slowly but it was pleasing to see when we had a spell with the ball that we were able to dominate possession in the first half and went in ahead at half time.

"Tuffley pushed on in the second half and forced us back. We were able to defend well so limited them in terms of chances they were able to create in front of goal, while looking dangerous at times on the break when we were able to get the ball forward.

"We should have done better with the goal we conceded but it reflects the importance of pushing on to go and score a second goal in any game as one goal may not be enough.

"The players are doing well to go three games unbeaten and to be performing and battling well when the pitches have started to turn because of the weather. We need everyone to play their part over Christmas and keep up the excellent team spirit and fight which is so important for us."

Thornbury's next game comes on Saturday away at high-flying Pershore Town before they make the trip to Roman Glass St George on Boxing Day.