Report & Pictures John Hopkins
WARRINGTON Rylands succumbed to an injury-time equaliser at The Hive Arena against FC United of Manchester last night, with the final score of one goal apiece.
This was a battle between two teams struggling at the lower end of the league table, both with merely 5 points from 7 games and just one win each so far.
United took control of the early stages of the match but The Blues stood resolute in defence. Settling into the game, the end of the half belonged to them. A huge talking point was when Ntumba Massanka appeared to receive a two-handed push in the back and flew face-down in the penalty area, but the referee signalled to continue to play.
The teams began the second half brightly but the goals were eluding both sides. Rylands were soon chasing every ball and their domination of the play was rewarded with a well-taken headed goal by Ntumba Massanka from an accurate corner kick.
Massanka scores – Picture John Hopkins
Warrington brought on fresh legs and continued to give The Reds little chance to settle. However, an amazing flying-headed goal in the last few minutes gave the opposition an equaliser.
Once again it feels as though Rylands have lost two points rather than gain one.
On Saturday The Blues take another break from league action and face the long journey across to County Durham for the second qualifying round of the FA Cup against Newton Aycliffe who play in Northern Premier League Division One East.
Clive Smith in action – Picture John Hopkins
