A GOAL 15 minutes from time by substitute Chris Whittingham gave Clitheroe a share of the points with last seasons NWCL Division One runners-up Prescot Cables.

Prescot took the lead when forward Steve Torpy raced clear on a through ball and slipped the ball past Kris Richens after 31 minutes.

Prescot looked livelier in the first half but rarely troubled Richens' goal.

Clitheroe's best chance was a header by Lee Cryer which went just over the bar.

The Blues took the initiative after the break but could not turn possession into goals.

Then, on 76 minutes, captain Neil Spencer rounded a couple of defenders in the box and laid the ball square for Whittingham to side foot home.

Prescot nearly snatched all three points in the last minute, but Richens came to the rescue with a fine save.

Debutants Paddy Lauber and man of the match Simon Garner impressed as did returning Barrie Hart, signed on the previous day from Accrington Stanley.

He had to give up at Stanley because of work commitments.

Manager Lee Sculpher seemed satisfied with the result but will no doubt expect a win from his men tomorrow night when they entertain Warrington Town at Shawbridge (ko 7.45pm).

CLITHEROE...1

PRESCOT CABLES...1