Stoneclough 2 Cross Hills 2 - Following their free weekend the previous week, a new look Cross Hills side returned to league action against fourth placed Stoneclough from Bolton.

Hills, propping up the league before the game after having only managed seven points from 10 games weren't relishing the trip.

Chris Simpson and Adam Whiteoak, who have been playing football in Australia, were welcomed back. Also new to the squad was Ryan Hook who was Silsden's top scorer last season. Reape played Simpson in midfield to give the South Craven side some much needed energy. Whiteoak and Hook partnered each other up front to provide the even more needed fire power.

After 10 minutes, Hills took the lead when a lethal Matthew Lloyd free kick was headed home by Simpson. The home side struggled to contain Hills and the lead should have been increased but good defending and indecisive finishing kept the advantage at just one goal.

Midway through the first half Stoneclough drew level following a corner.

Reape's men re-grouped, started to pass the ball and began causing the home side more and more problems.

Ian Craven and Danny Thompson on the wings looked like being match-winners.

If the locals are to improve their standing and climb the league, they really need to stop making mistakes, they have conceded 35 goals in 11 games and with 15 minutes of the half to go another mistake let in the home-side's right winger and his shot sneaked inside the far post.

Cross Hills hit back when Whiteoak slotted a shot under the advancing keeper.

The second half was dominated by Cross Hills and they should have wrapped up the points. A missed penalty and two fine saves from the Stoneclough keeper meant that the game finished level.

Hills gained a place from their well deserved point and look to stretch their unbeaten run to 3 games when they visit high flying Haslingden St Mary's tomorrow (Saturday).