LEIGH RMI extended their unbeaten run to 11 games with a battling 2-2 draw at Worksop. They had the luxury of taking a fifth minute lead before defensive mistakes allowed Worksop to go in front.
But Paul Wheeler popped up 10 minutes from time to ensure a share of the spoils. "We were our worst enemy," said manager Steve Waywell.
"We couldn't have asked for a better start. But, although we were up against the slope and strong wind, it was just poor defending that cost us the lead.
"We lost possession in dangerous areas and defenders must learn their first priority is to defend. However, if I had been offered a point at 3pm, I would have taken it."
His views were obviously based on the fact he was without his two injured central defenders, Mark Schofield and Graham Hill. Replacement Mick Charlton was also still suffering with a toe injury. Full-back Matty Weston passed a late fitness test on his niggling hamstring but broke down again and could be out for some time.
RMI scored in their first attack. Dave Ridings freed Chris Shaw away down the right and his pinpoint cross found Keith Evans unmarked just inside the box. He made no mistake with a rasping left-footer.
They then frustrated Worksop until the 53rd minute after Mick Wallace lost possession and Dave Felgate was well beaten.
Felgate pulled of several fine saves before he was beaten in the 72nd minute - again after the ball had been given away.
But, with 10 minutes remaining, Wheeler outjumped the defence to meet a Tom McKenna corner, crashing his header into the top corner.
Leigh have not lost since the opening day of the season, but they face a testing FA Cup third qualifying round tie against Marine at Hilton Park on Saturday.
Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.
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