Chorley 1 Frickley Athletic 1

CHORLEY'S 13th draw of the season left the Victory Park crowd frustrated yet again as another last-gasp equaliser denied the Magpies full points.

In truth, this was a poor game on a poor pitch, but Chorley certainly had the better chances. The Magpies had four players, Paul Jones, Hussin, Thomas and Leather missing through suspension, with Shepherd, Sexton and Carroll making their debuts.

It is part of football folklore that Chorley never beat Frickley - and so it prove again. Although Frickley battled hard from the start, they never threatened Marsh and it was Chorley who came closest in a turgid first half. Carroll blasted narrowly too high, Steele dallied over a good chance and Carroll, clean through, was denied by Stratford's saving tackle.

Just after the interval, Chorley took the lead when Shaughnessey (pictured) latched on to Carroll's flick to beat O'Connor, Frickley's keeper.

It looked like it may be enough, but Chorley should have secured the points when Carroll's cross provided Critchley with a gift opening which he headed over.

The Magpied were made to pay when, in the last minute, a right wing cross wasn't cleared and and substitute Collins scrambled in a messy equaliser.

This Saturday Chorley travel to Blyth Spartans. The coach leaves at 11am and costs £10. Ring Frazier on 834853 to book.

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