Football
Langholm Legion 0
Newtown AFC 0
LANGHOLM Legion had to work extremely hard to gain a vital point in last Saturday’s Division A league fixture on the 3G.
Legion had been on the receiving end of a heavy defeat earlier in the season at Newtown.
They had to reshuffle their starting line-up when top scorer Brian Mattinson failed to show because of illness.
The experienced David Borthwick was moved from the bench to replace the missing striker in a late change.
Newtown sit second in the league and enjoyed the bulk of possession in the first half and keeper Derek Johnson made two important saves to keep the scoreline blank.
Legion worked extremely hard and competed all over the pitch.
As the half went on, they enjoyed some spells of pressure without testing the visiting keeper.
In the second half the pattern of the match continued but Newtown started to become frustrated.
Legion carved out a golden chance when Scott Collins latched onto a cross but, as he looked to strike at goal, he lost his balance and his shot was scrambled away for a corner by the keeper.
Jake Little and Finley Dell’s partnership at the heart of the defence was providing much defensive base to the Legion side and the sheer work rate and desire from the rest of the team was excellent.
Legion almost snatched a win late on.
Firstly, Aidan Wilson headed home a Craig Cuthbert free kick only for the goal to be ruled out by a very tight offside call and, secondly, fellow substitute Craig Pool burst forward and only an excellent save prevented a great goal.
With a point in touching distance, Legion were under the cosh but Johnson again saved well when a clear opportunity presented itself and Legion cleared their lines manfully after some late pressure.
Barry Henderson, manager, said: “Legion’s players faced a tough task and had to work extremely hard for the draw but can be proud of their efforts in what could be a vital point come the end of the season.”
Match Sponsor: Christopher “Flower” Wallbank Team: D Johnson, T Alderson, F Dell, J Little, C Ewart, B Rayson, A Little, C Cuthbert, I Little, S Collins, D Borthwick. Subs: A Wilson, C Pool (used) R Hotson, T Henderson (unused).
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