by John Hopkins
WARRINGTON Rylands were held to a 2 – 2 draw by Hebburn Town at The Hive Arena after twice taking the lead in the first half.
Within the first 3 minutes, Alex Kiwomya struck a power shot past keeper Kieran Hunter to show that Rylands meant business, but it took just four more minutes for Joao Pedro Gomes Carrington to score at the other end to level the score.
Undeterred, the home side continued to push forward. Moving the ball around the pitch they made it difficult for a good Tyne and Wear side, who currently sit 6th in the league table.
Their hard work paid off when Jake Daniels made one of his trademark runs, beating several players to kick the ball into the top corner for the home side to take the lead once again.
The Hornets were restricted to making break-away runs as Warrington controlled the half, but a debatable penalty decision allowed them to draw level for the second time.
Jake Daniels scores the second – Picture John Hopkins
The second half was totally dominated by The Blues but unfortunately, they couldn’t find the winning goal, despite having many chances. If the first-half penalty was questionable, the same could be said about a foul in the penalty area later in the match for which the referee merely awarded Rylands a corner.
Hebburn once again were sitting in defence and limiting their game to long balls into the opposition’s half, but appeared happy to see the game out as a draw, whereas Warrington wanted a win and were clearly disappointed when the full-time whistle blew.
Manager Neil Reynolds praised his squad, saying “They were all exceptional and as a group are getting better and better. We’re now getting a reputation as being a good side and a threat to any team.”
Rylands now look to Tuesday’s match at FC United of Manchester. They go there full of confidence but will be up against a side who have just taken three points against Morpeth Town.
Burton on the ball
