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Michael Rankine

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Stafford 0-1 Rushden

Rushden & Diamonds recorded a narrow victory against Steve Bull's Stafford Rangers at Marston Road on Tuesday evening.

The Diamonds got off to a flying start as Michael Rankine headed in a Andrew Burgess cross at the left side of penalty area after just five minutes.

Stafford goalkeeper Danny Alcock pulled off a great save to deny Conal Platt's drilled effort in the 27th minute to give his side a fighting chance.

However, neither of the two sides could fashion a goal despite having a good number of chances.

Steve Bull's men almost snatched a point at the death but Neil Grayson's header at the left-hand side of the six-yard box missed the target.

Stafford bookings: Draper 70.

Rushden bookings: Shaw 67.

Ref: Paul Tierney.

Att: 436.