Turner returns to make a point at Hillsborough

Former Sheffield Wednesday manager Chris Turner returned to Hillsborough for the first time since being sacked back in September and left with a hard earned point, but more importantly for Wednesday two points lost. County ended their truly awful run of eight games defeated on the trot in a 0-0 stalemate in S6.

The Owls knew they had to beat the basement boys to keep their play-off hopes alive, but were frustrated by a stubborn defensive performance by the Hatters. The football gods were shining on Wednesday this weekend though as all three of Wednesday's play-off rivals were defeated. A point gained from this match threw Wednesday back into 5th place, with their own destiny back in their hands. However, Paul Sturrock's side are winless in their last seven league games. Hardly the kind of form Owls fans would like from their side running into the most crucial time of the season.

This report from TeamTalk.com:

Sheffield Wednesday moved into the play-off places despite failing to beat relegated Stockport in a goalless draw at Hillsborough. James Quinn missed a good chance early on for the Owls and was later denied by Stockport keeper James Spencer, who also did well to keep out a Patrick Collins effort.

After the break, Matt Hamshaw's shot was comfortably saved by Spencer and then Quinn had an effort blocked, with Hamshaw's follow-up also striking a defender. Young Owls striker Drew Talbot, on as a substitute, saw his overhead kick brilliantly tipped over by Spencer and also fired in a low shot which the keeper saved with his legs.

Wednesday's Chris Brunt put a long-range drive just over and Lee Peacock had a shot parried by Spencer but despite applying some late pressure, Paul Sturrock's men were unable to make the breakthrough. Stockport's solitary effort on goal was a flicked header from Adam Le Fondre which was saved by Paul Gallacher.

Half-time: Owls 0-0 Stockport

Paul Sturrock's post match comments:
"Our final cross and finish let us down on the day. You have days like that - sometimes you just know your team's not going to score a goal. Whenever the ball dropped it went to the wrong side of our man, or they got a block."

"I was pleased with our attitude and work rate. I could ask no more from the players today. They gave it their best shot but we are frustrated and disappointed. The scary thing is we've climbed two places in the league! This morning our fate was in other people's hands - now it's swung back into ours. Two victories would take us into the play-offs now and that's what we've got to try to achieve."