Workington Reds are being frustrated by Colne as the two sides are deadlocked 0-0 at half time.

The game has been played in typical Cumbrian summer weather in front of 534 fans, with almost torrential rain making for a slick surface and helping Reds to control the match with their possession-based style.

Reds had chances to turn their early dominance into goals, only to be thwarted by the goalkeeper and, once, by a dubious challenge which manager Danny Grainger felt should have resulted in a penalty.

A trademark 30-yard rocket from David Symington had to be tipped over the bar moments after Scott Allison felt he should have had a penalty for an elbow to the ribs in the opening stages.

And captain Conor Tinnion tried his luck with a curling shot from outside the area which was watched over by Colne goalkeeper Hakan Burton.

But possibly Reds’ best chance of the first half was denied by what looked a clear foul on Symington after he exchanged passes with Allison on the edge of the box.

The tricky winger was barged over as he burst through on goal, only for the referee to wave away shouts for a penalty.

Despite having had next to nothing to do, Jim Atkinson was alert to make a fine low stop from a Sefton Gonzales header in the 36th minute, although the flag was up for offside.

Colne grew into the half and thought they should have had penalty when a goal-bound header was blocked by what could have been an arm but again the man with the whistle did not point to the spot.

They appealed for another seconds later when Atkinson dived at Gonzales’ feet looking to collect the ball, but the striker stayed on his feet and Reds were spared.

Tinnion had a chance late in the half but was crowded out in the box and his shot deflected out for a corner which came to nothing.