Liversedge show character and fight to head up NPL East table
After a midweek win took them back to top spot Liversedge FC stayed ahead of the pack when they battled back from a goal down to claim another point at home to Ashington.
Danny Forrest’s men felt aggrieved to be behind after a goal was given on the linesman’s say so when it was not clear whether the ball had crossed the line.
But they fought back to earn a 1-1 draw when Ben Atkinson netted seven minutes from time following good work by Lewis Barlow.
Atkinson had earlier gone close and Antony Brown had several chances, but Ashington played their part in a decent football contest.
“We weren’t fantastic, but we didn’t deserve to lose,” said manager Forrest.
"We were really good first half and I don’t think anyone would have argued if we had come in at least one, maybe two up.
"Second half we were ever so slightly flat and we’ve got to learn from that and make sure it doesn’t happen. But I felt the game was there for the taking.
"I felt like the attitude and application was there, it was just that little bit of quality and that little bit of energy from someone to get hold of the game that wasn’t there.
"Overall it wasn’t horrific. It wasn’t great either, probably a run of the mill performance and we know we will have to step it up slightly, but I can’t fault the lads overall, they are giving everything.”
On the controversial Ashington goal, Forrest added: “It’s hard to take because we played on for five or six seconds.
"Surely you know if it’s over the line straight away or not?
"You’ve got to be sure I suppose but, whatever, the lads have shown character to grind a point out deservedly.”
In midweek Liversedge won 3-1 at Hallam with two goals from Alfie Dean and one by Brown.
They are quickly back in action tonight at home to Silsden and in a hectic period they are away to Consett on Saturday and at home to North Ferriby next Tuesday.