LEIGH RMI extended their unbeaten run to 11 games with a battling 2-2 draw at Worksop on Saturday.

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 that their first priority is to defend, but having said that if I had been offered a point at 3pm I would have taken it," added Waywell.

The Railwaymen's boss' views were obviously based on the fact that he was without his two injured central defenders, Mark Schofield and Graham Hill. He was aware that replacement Mick Charlton was still suffering with a toe injury and was not hundred per cent fit.

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 and he made no mistake with a rasping left footer.

They then frustrated Worksop until the 53rd minute. Mick Wallace lost possession to Clark who took it on before beating the helpless Dave Felgate. Walace was then replaced by Steve Walmesley.

Felgate pulled of several fine saves before he was beaten by Lee Howard in the 72nd minute again after the ball had been given away.

But with 10 minutes remaining Wheeler outjumped the Tigers 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 now face a testing week with a league match at Flixton tomorrow and the FA Cup third qualifying round tie against Marine at Hilton Park on Saturday.

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