Errea Northern Senior League
Leonard Stanley 2
Broadwell 2
BROADWELL had to travel to Leonard Stanley on New Year's Day for a 2pm kick-off.
Because of a flu virus, they went with a depleted squad. They gained a hard fought draw, but surrendered a two goal lead in the final 10 minutes.
The home team had been warming up for 30 minutes when Broadwell arrived at the ground.
The hosts were just as enthusiastic once the game got under way on a heavy pitch.
Broadwell dominated for long spells, however, with Danny Latham and Steve Belfitt giving the home full-backs a torrid afternoon.
Latham picked up where he left off before Christmas – scoring Broadwell's opener on the half-hour with a close range finish from six yards from a Belfitt pass.
Craig Lewis – one of three Broadwell players having to play with the flu – was outstanding in midfield, alongside the hard working Mike Robbins and Carl Adams.
The home team looked most dangerous at set plays, but defenders Scott Albon and Andy Green did well to protect stand-in goalkeeper Phil Delaney.
The visitors increased their lead 15 minutes into the second period.
Matt Foxwell and Mike Robbins played a quick one-two on the edge of the box, before Robbins picked out the unmarked Latham. He was hacked down inside the area – Guy Jones placing the ball under the outstretched hands of the keeper from the resulting penalty.
With 10 minutes to go, the New Year festivities probably led to bodies tiring and energy sapping.
A tremendous strike from Leonard Stanley striker Thomas sailed into the net, giving Delaney no chance.
Minutes from the end, a far post header from Wilkinson rescued a point for the home side.
Despite the obvious disappointment of conceding two late goals, Broadwell manager Mark Allen was proud of his players for their efforts.
Broadwell take on Tetbury Town at home this Saturday (2pm).
Broadwell: Phil Delaney, Ian Price, Guy Jones, Andy Green, Scott Albon, Craig Lewis, Carl Adams, Steve Belfitt, Danny Latham, Mike Robbins, Matt Foxwell. Sub: Scott Sargeant.