BOSS Carl Heeley defended his decision not to use his bench during Worcester City’s “war of attrition” at Alfreton Town on Saturday.

Strikers Dan Turner and Steven Craig, winger Chekaine Steele, goalkeeper Nick Draper and defender Andy Gallinagh were all unused substitutes in the 0-0 draw at the Impact Arena.

However, Heeley did not believe they would have helped City win the game against a “tough” Alfreton side.

And he praised his starting 11 for standing up to the hosts’ “bullying” tactics during the Vanarama National League North fixture.

“I didn’t feel the players we had available (on the bench) would have helped us win the game,” he said.

“I felt it was a physical battle which is why I played Hutch (Graham Hutchison) at right-back.

“We got the biggest side we could out on the pitch to deal with the threat of Alfreton and we dealt with it.”

Worcester, who have not won a league game since November 12, were left to settle for a point after Colby Bishop was disallowed a goal despite claims the ball had crossed the line.

But Heeley, whose side are five points clear of the drop zone in 16th, added: “It is a good point there overall because they are a tough side.

“They try to intimidate and bully teams.

“It was a war of attrition but the players have stood up for 90 minutes and they have defended superbly.”