Report & Pictures John Hopkins
AN injury-time equaliser by a strong Matlock Town brought disappointment for Warrington Rylands who had held the lead for 54 minutes resulting in a 1-1 draw last night.
Two teams near the bottom of the league table; two teams with a new manager; two teams with a new squad. Both sides were looking to move up the table after a poor start to the season.
After the long trek on a Tuesday evening to the Derbyshire Peak District Rylands were ready to battle for the win, and a tough battle it was as both sides gave everything. Tackles were hard and feelings fractious.
Warrington were the first to open the score ten minutes before the break as Will Russ sneaked the ball past Rogan Ravenhill, but The Gladiators immediately fought back and almost equalised when a clever overhead kick slammed off The Blues woodwork and out of play.
Manager Neil Reynolds had set his side with a back three, but when two of these left the field with injuries it became necessary to make a few changes while Matlock continuously pushed for the equaliser.
Wave upon wave of attacks came from Ryan Cresswell’s squad but Rylands dug in at the back with all playing their part in front of goal. Luke Pilling made some amazing saves but an 89th minute corner found the head of Remaye Campbell which he accurately directed into the net.
Attention is now of the tournament turned to The Isuzu FA Trophy on Saturday as Warrington Rylands welcome Ossett United from the NPL Division One East for The First Round Proper of tournament.