Barlick’s battlers strike late for a point at Congleton

They needed an 86th minute strike from substitute Gareth Hargreaves to get a share of the spoils, but new manager Danny Craig felt they deserved more.

It was the first point his side have secured in the three games they have played under his command and it was easily their best performance.

“It was a good performance by the lads. We dominated for much of the game and I felt we were worth more, said Craig.

“In the previous matches at Runcorn Linnets and 1874 Northwich we competed well but never really threatened.

“In both those matches we paid the price for conceding from set pieces.

“This time, although we let in another goal from a free kick, we created some good chances.

“Our full backs Liam Blades and Jake McEneaney got forward well and I felt we executed our game plan well.”

Barnoldswick might well feel that Lady Luck wasn’t on their side.

Former Guiseley and Silsden midfieldman Zack Dale hit the crossbar twice and they had two shots cleared off the line in the closing minutes – one which their supporters claimed was over the line.

On the first occasion he rattled the woodwork with a lob after the Congleton keeper got into a tangle with one of his defenders and the ball fell to Dale.

He also thumped a stunning volley against the bar from the edge of the area.

If either had gone in then Craig could have been celebrating his first win.

As it was, he did get to see the character and determination of his side as they hit back after falling behind to Ryan Hibbert’s 59th minute goal.

The equaliser followed a good break down the left by McEneaney.

When he played the ball into the box, Hargreaves had his back to goal.

He turned sharply and beat two defenders before thumping the ball into the net.

After having their last two home games washed out, Craig finally hopes to see his side in action at the Silentnight Stadium on Saturday when they are due to tackle Premier Division new boys Barnston.