Ramsbottom United...1 Alsager...1

RAMSBOTTOM were looking to get back to winning ways against Alsager after Saturday's defeat by Newcastle Town.

It had all the signs of being a tight game with Alsager's goalkeeper having picked up a Player of the Month and a defence in front of him that had leaked just one goal in six games.

Most of the play in the first half was in midfield with neither keeper having a save to make. It was clear Alsager had come not to lose and would be happy with a point.

The second half started in much the same vein, but the Rams finally started to make some inroads on the hour. A cross from Mark Fitton in the 75th minute was punched away by keeper Rob Powner, but Doni Clarke hit it straight back from 30 yards out only to see it hit the bar and a post.

Carl McCoy also went close after good work down the left by Fitton and saw Powner save from him twice. Powner also stopped a Glyn Barker effort in the 80th minute.

With the game heading for a goalless stalemate, Chris Clarke received the ball wide on the right and knocked a great cross in to the near post. Doni Clarke's subtle first touch left Brotherton floundering and he skipped round Powner and shot into the empty net.

The points were apparently in the bag, but with a minute of stoppage time left on the clock, Alsager's left back Danny Clark went down the left flank. His cross was only half cleared and striker Craig Redgate smashed in the equaliser at the second attempt.

The referee didn't even have time to restart the game, but the Rams had thrown another two points away after seemingly having the game won.

RAMSBOTTOM UNITED: Marsh 7, Raywood 7, McCoy 7, Rispen 7, Walsh 7, D Clarke 8, G Gardner 6, C Clark 7, Barker 6, Weir 6, Fitton 6. Substitutes: Bulwich 6. Not used: Dyson, Burke.

Tomorrow the Rams travel to take on Newcastle Town (kick-off 3pm).