In a keenly contested game, neither side proved strong enough to force a winner in what was a well-balanced tie at the UCD Bowl.

For large periods of this affair, it proved to be two evenly matched teams who cancelled out each other’s strengths. In a match which had many substories of rivalry, such as the UCD manager Andy Meyler formerly playing for Bray; it certainly was a match full of bite. That rivalry was evident in the ferocity of some of the tackles throughout the game.

Bray Wanderers started the game strongly and UCD struggled to retain possession. Graydon was impressive on the wing for the visitors, and he created the first chance of the game in the 7th minute, cutting inside from the wing, and shooting just wide of the UCD right hand post.

In the 22nd minute, controversy reigned when UCD forward, Doyle, nodded on a long ball from Sam Todd, which found Colm Whelan in the penalty area and he finished to the net. Unfortunately for UCD, the linesman had his flag up for offside. Despite UCD protests, the game remained 0-0. In a first half which had few chances, although UCD midfielder Brennan came close with an effort from outside the box from a corner. 

There were some spicy tackles in this derby, which included from UCD men Richie O’Farrell and Luka Lovic, who were featuring against their former club. This was displayed most evidently as Steven Kinsella’s high foot challenge on left-back Luke Boore, earned him a yellow card.

It was a difficult night for the dangermen on both teams, as neither Whelan nor Kavanagh were afforded much space during the game. Colm Whelan had few chances to accelerate in his dangerous dribbling style and indeed earned a free kick after being taken down on one such run. However, he never really had the time or space to damage Bray at any stage. 

Tonight proved to be a stalemate at the UCD Bowl and both sides will be happy enough with a point, having dominated at different stages of the game.

A point earned and perhaps, both will be optimistic ahead of next weekend's matches, having maintained their unbeaten start to the season.