Farsley 2, Bamber Bridge 2

FARSLEY could not make home advantage count in their Evo-Stik League promotion battle with Bamber Bridge and remain ninth in Division One North after being held to a draw.

The hosts had by far the better of the first half but the visitors were handed a lifeline just before the break.

They responded well and made a game of it in second half, with home keeper Tom Taylor having to be on top form to ensure his side got even a share of the spoils.

Farsley had a dream start as midfielder Andy Welsh gave them a seventh-minute lead. His shot from distance dipped before bouncing awkwardly in front of the Bridge keeper and rearing up into the net.

Skipper Rob O'Brien had a good chance to double the advantage but he fired over after being picked out by Welsh's cross.

But just as it appeared the home side would take their slender advantage into the break, they conceded a penalty and Darren Green slotted it in.

O'Brien was thwarted in the second half when Bridge keeper Lee Dovey did well to tip his shot over the bar – and instead the visitors went in front just before the hour mark. A cross from the left was not dealt with and Alistair Waddecar pounced.

Taylor's first crucial contribution came when he pulled off a superb double save before O'Brien netted Farsley's leveller.

The keeper was needed again as the Lancashire outfit threatened but Adam Priestley could have won it for the home side, seeing his late effort cleared off the line.