THE Bloods came away empty handed from the league leaders following this disappointing performance by Dave Pace’s men.

It was a cabbage patch of a pitch, very bumpy in places, which was not conducive to Droylsden's passing game, who instead at times had to revert to percentage football by hitting the channels for runners.

Given the FA Cup exploits of recent weeks, it is the league that remains the fundamental aim of any side, and to fall a further three points behind the leaders will not be welcome.

Playing up the notorious slope at The Lamb, Droylsden gave themselves a bigger hill to climb when they fell behind on seven minutes.

The impressive Alex Rodman cut in from the left flank to beat two defenders and shoot past Craig Mawson.

The Bloods enjoyed some good spells of possession, but without ever stretching Danny Alcock, making his debut in goal for Tamworth.

Tony Gray shot wide and then failed to get sufficient power in a second shot as Droylsden looked to get back on level terms.

The Lambs had their moments, too, and Bradley Pritchard almost looked like he was going to extend their lead but for a great tackle from Lee Roche at the crucial moment.

The second half was mostly one-way traffic towards Mawson’s goal, but Steve Beck was way off target for Droylsden early on after he had been teed up by Liam Brownhill.

Moments later, Sean Newton had to clear off the line from Gareth Sheldon after Pritchard’s goalbound shot had beaten Mawson.

Droylsden were probing for an opening, but Ruffer dallied on the ball on halfway and was robbed by Pritchard, who exchanged passes with Nick Wright before drilling past Mawson.

If Droylsden are to make the most of their games in hand and make an impression in the league, then there will have to be an improvement on performances like this one, against a rather ordinary team who looked anything but league leaders, but who will no doubt be in the promotion frame come next April.

Attendance: 690
Gary Owen