New Harrogate Railway striker Jerry Yates scored on his debut, against Padiham. Photo: Caught Light Photography
Harrogate Railway suffered a setback in their pursuit of a Evo Stik Division One North play-offs place after drawing 1-1 at doomed Padiham.
Padiham owe referee Joe Simpson a huge debt of gratitude as a Brett Ormerod penalty earned the bottom-placed side a point in a controversial finish to the game.
Railway were missing key player Rob Youhill through injury, but Billy Miller was able to field new signing Jerry Yates, who immediately repaid him.
The Rotherham United striker was able to control the ball and score inside the penalty area to put Railway in the driving seat.
Jesus Martin-Farina and Fatlum Ibrahimi both had chances to double their lead, but Padiham were able to hold out.
Controversy struck when Malachi Farquharson was hauled to the ground, but no penalty was awarded.
Padiham went up the other end and Simpson pointed to the spot after a foul.
Former Premier League striker Ormerod converted the penalty – setting up a frantic finale.
Railway had several chances to it before substitute Greg Kidd was dismissed for two bookable offences.
Harrogate Railway manager Billy Miller:
“It was a poor performance by us.
“It was a great debut from young Jerry upfront and I thought he did absolutely superbly, but across the park we probably know we let ourselves down.
“Fair play to Padiham, they stuck at it and when they got the penalty, it was probably fair reflection on where the game was at that stage.
“I think in the last ten minutes we could have won the game three times over.”
Harrogate Railway: Goodwin, Coates, Manning, Heath, Morgan, Thirkell, Mycoe (captain), Ibrahimi, Farquharson, Yates, Hunter. Subs: Armstrong, Kidd, Bromley, Martin-Farina, Ashforth.
Referee: Joe Simpson
Attendance: 182