DESPITE dominating large parts of the match, third-placed Christian Malford had to settle for a 2-2 draw against leaders Melksham Cosmos in their home game at Kington Langley.

Malford, who had not played for over a month, seemed to adapt quicker to the very heavy pitch and in the first half hour had a succession of corners but could not convert despite hitting the bar and having one attempt cleared off the line.

Cosmos were restricted to attacks on the break although Chris Berrelly in midfield was looking extremely comfortable on the ball.

Shaun Jenkins in the Cosmos goal was certainly the busier of the two keepers at this stage but could do nothing to stop Malford’s opening goal in the 33rd minute. An excellent cross field ball from Scott Evans found Tom Watchman who hit the ball on the run into the net from just outside the penalty area.

Malford then had another period of dominance but conceded a free kick about 30 yards from their goal in the 39th minute. Matt Hutchings in the Malford goal could only parry the fierce shot from Alex Shaftoe and Marc Scammell was first to react scoring to equalise for Cosmos who had the better of the last few minutes of the first period.

Both teams were feeling the effects of the heavy pitch and play slowed a little as the game wore on. Both teams began to use their substitutes as Malford again began to get on top.

Cosmos were also giving the Malford defence problems on the break and it was a little against the run of play when Cosmos took the lead. After failing to clear a long ball, Cosmos substitute Matt Bowden fired home from inside the area to give the visitors a 2-1 lead in the 75th minute.

Malford now pressed for an equaliser and again had the ball cleared off the goal line as well as several corners. In the 85th minute another corner from Alex Warburton was headed home by Paul Knight to bring Malford level at 2-2. In the final minute Malford had a glorious chance to win but the Cosmos keeper saved Dave Brown’s effort.

The game ended a 2-2 draw, the reverse fixture also finished with 0-0 stalemate.

MATCHES OFF: Pig & Whistle United v Crossblades FC, Sportzcoach Dragonz United v Old Road, Worton & Cheverell (Sunday) v Trowbridge Town Supporters Club, Wren FC v North Star B.

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