CHORLEY were unlucky not to take three points from league leaders Bolton in a keenly fought competitive match played in bitingly cold conditions.

Perhaps the chill influenced the pace of the game, which set off at a terrific rate right from the kick-off.

Tackles were flying in as both teams fought to win possession, but it was Chorley who took the lead, after ten minutes, when Kim Swarbrick's right foot shot was parried by the keeper, and she ran on to thump in the rebound into the top corner of the net.

Bolton looked stunned at going behind so early in the game, but recovered quickly and forced keeper Debbie Cowell into some point blank saves and scrambled goal line clearances.

It was not surprising when Bolton scored a deserved equaliser after half an hour with a super strike from 20 yards by Kim Bain.

Chorley looked ragged as the half drew to a close and Bolton took advantage by scoring from a defensive blunder in the box and the simplest of tap ins for Jeanette Williams.

Bolton looked good for their lead at half time for their efforts and looked better focused and organised than Chorley. After the fast and furious pace of the first half, it was not surprising to see both teams settle down to a more leisurely game for the final 45 minutes.

This suited Chorley and they began to play with more commitment. And sub Rosie Schofield, who came on early in the half had an immediate impact with her skill and tenacity.

Chorley stepped up their work rate and it was a cross from Schofield which found Swarbrick running into the box and her swerving right foot shot high into the roof of the net, gave keeper Nicki Leese no chance of saving. There were further chances at either end, but Sally Spencer came closest for Chorley when her long range shot made Leese complete a stunning save, diving low to her right and palming the ball around the foot of the post.

In fairness, the final score of 2-2 was a just result for two teams who battled hard, but who's stubbornness in defence, and determination not to lose made a draw inevitable.

Holding the league leaders to a draw was a tremendous achievement and should boost Chorley's confidence when they face Wigan away this week.

Chorley Ladies 2 Bolton Wanderers 2