DARWEN were unlucky not to take all three points against Maine Road, as the NWCL Division Two pace-setters bagged a late equaliser at the Anchor Ground.

With captain Paul Brown magnificent in midfield, Darwen battled well with their high-flying visitors and managed to take the lead early in the second-half after Daniel Stubberfield's drilled effort went in off the keeper.

On 80 minutes however, Rob Batty was powerless to stop a fine volley on the turn by Steve Simms as the Manchester side finally drew level.

DARWEN...1

MAINE ROAD...1