Evo Stik South
Stocksbridge Park Steels 2-2 Alvechurch
Matt Reay turns away to celebrate what he thought was Stocksbridge’s winner. Picture: Ian Revitt
Matt Reay thought he had won it for Stocksbridge Park Steels with a late header, but it wasn’t to be as Alvechurch netted a last gasp equaliser.
The Steels led twice in the end-to-end encounter at Bracken Moor which certainly entertained the masses.
The draw keeps Stocksbridge’s recent unbeaten run going.
Although Chris Hilton disagreed, Stocksbridge were poor in the first half. Twice top goal-scorer David Reay saved his team’s bacon with saves from goal-bound efforts from Bekir Halli.
The only moment where the Steels troubled their visitors was when Scott Ruthven hit the crossbar with a header.
The second half was a different story. Stocksbridge were much more brighter going forward and they soon got the breakthrough. Their talisman Joe Lumsden, the predatory goal-scorer, broke clear and scored with a composed finish.
That’s how it remained until the frantic last 15 minutes. Admittably an Alvechurch equaliser did seem inevitable and it came via a Daniel Dubidat header.
The Steels recovered their lead with just a matter of minutes remaining – Reay’s bouncing header from Rory Coleman’s free kick sparked scenes of jubilation. Steels coach Lee Thompson’s sprint down the touchline showed just what it meant to them.
However, Alvechurch had the last word – Josh March scoring at the back post with a free header.
Alex Wiles in battle for Stocksbridge. Picture: Gillian Handisides
Star man Joe Lumsden gave Stocksbridge the lead. Picture: Ian Revitt
A further shot of Reay celebrating. Picture: Peter Revitt
Alvechurch scoring their late equaliser. Picture: Gillian Handisides
What They Said
Stocksbridge Park Steels manager Chris Hilton
The Teams
Stocksbridge Park Steels: D Reay, Charlesworth, Grayson, Wiles, McFadyen (captain), Litchfield, Stirrup, Lumsden (Rhodes 89), Ruthven, Coleman. Subs unused: Salmons, Thompson, Laight, Greaves.
Alvechurch: Jasim, Ashmore, Foster, Turton, Parsons, Carter, Cresswell, Botfield, Dubidat (captain), Yates, March. Subs: Willets, Carter, Halli, Cessay, Keen.
Who Was In Charge
Pete Walker
Referee Pete Walker was calm and composed throughout
A very good and competent display from the always excellent Castleford-based official.
How Many Were There
112