NEWENT Town salvaged a dramatic point deep into stoppage time as Elliott Vanstone struck to secure a 3-3 draw against Sharpness in difficult conditions on Saturday.

The Hellenic League Division One encounter produced six goals, a red card and a remarkable late turnaround in front of 55 spectators, with both sides experiencing spells in control.

Newent made the stronger start and took a 1-0 advantage into half-time thanks to a goal from Luke Firkin.

The hosts continued their momentum after the interval, with Hubert Zatorski doubling their lead early in the second half to leave them seemingly on course for all three points.

However, Sharpness responded strongly and began to turn the contest around as Newent struggled to protect their advantage.

Rory Cawkwell pulled a goal back for the visitors before Michael Bryant levelled matters at 2-2, setting up a tense finish.

The match also saw Newent's Ben Harbourne sent off, although the timing of his dismissal was not confirmed.

With the contest entering its final moments, Bryant struck again in the 90th minute to complete the Sharpness comeback and put the visitors 3-2 ahead.

It appeared Newent would be left empty-handed after surrendering their two-goal lead, but the hosts produced one final response.

Vanstone found the net deep into added time to make it 3-3, ensuring the points were shared following an eventful afternoon.

Newent described the encounter as one played in “crazy conditions”, with the dramatic closing stages providing a fitting conclusion to an unpredictable contest.

For the hosts, the late equaliser offered some consolation after seeing a commanding position slip away, although the result also highlighted the importance of maintaining control when ahead.

Attention now turns to Newent's next league fixture, with the side looking to build on the resilience shown in the closing moments against Sharpness.