Two points lost for Kidsgrove Athletic as they concede a late equaliser against Stamford AFC at the Zeeco stadium.

Grove began the better of the two teams and in the fifth minute, left back Lewis Bergin’s driven shot was gathered by goalkeeper, Sam Donkin.

Sustained early pressure by the away side, saw more chances falling their way. In the 16th minute tenacity and strength paid dividends for Grove’s man of the match Ben Mills, winning a free kick on the edge of the box for his troubles. Bergin’s strike was matched by a good save from Donkin, to keep the game level.

Kidsgrove’s strike partnership of Mills and Harry Clayton was causing the Stamford defence problems, and just before half time, Clayton miss-timed his run after a neat through ball by Mills and his left footed strike in to the top corner was deemed offside by the
officials; meaning the game was goalless going in to half time.

The second half began in the same manner as the first ended. Kidsgrove looked confident in possession and in the 46th minute Aaron Johns cut inside on his right foot and his shot from outside the area drifted wide.

Stamford’s first chance of the match came on the hour mark. Winger John King, crossed the ball in to a dangerous area and Jack Oldham, beat goalkeeper Chris Martin to the ball but his subsequent header went wide of the near post.

As the half grew on, the Kidsgrove management recognised that both teams began to tire as a result of Stamford’s bigger pitch and Kyle Diskin was replaced by Anthony Malbon.

The substitution had an immediate effect. Clayton passed the ball in to the feet of Malbon and with his back to goal the number 10 back heeled the ball in to the bottom corner, putting Grove in to the lead in the 67th minute. A real touch of class from Grove’s club captain.

In the 81st minute, Stamford Captain and ex Cambridge United player Jon Challinor played a pass through to Jake Duffy who failed to gain control inside the box. Grove struggled to clear their lines and Stamford striker Courtney Meade collected the ball. With a combination of fast feet and a bit of luck he was able to slide a pass across the box to substitute Jamie McGhee, who side footed to ball past helpless Martin.

In large, the game had a scrappy feel to it and on reflection both team will be happy with the 1-1 score line.

Kidsgrove Athletic will face Lincoln United on Saturday 18th March at the Novus stadium, hoping to return to winning ways. Kick-off at 3:00pm.