Champions-elect Moulton Harrox had Lee Kenealy to thank for preserving their fine unbeaten status this season in ChromaSport PDFL Premier Division.
The keeper made a terrific penalty save to prevent Netherton United taking a 2-0 lead at Broad Lane on Saturday.
Moulton went on to earn a point with top scorer Ollie Maltby’s goal.
Boss Dave Panton said: “The game changer for me was the great penalty save from Lee.
“He has conceded fewer goals than any other keeper this season so far and I love the fact he hates conceding. It was an outstanding save and earned us that point.”
Netherton pressed Moulton back early on, but once lightning winger Ben Allen started flying down the flank and whipping some cracking balls in, the Netherton keeper was the busier – stopping Maltby and Joe Townsend.
However, indecisive defending from Harrox enabled the visitors to get their noses in front. Then came the penalty save, to the relief of Phil Groves, who had conceded it.
The second half was a much improved performance from Moulton, led by midfield duo Tom Panton and Billy King.
Allen and Maltby both hit the woodwork twice and Ian Bradbury’s great header was brilliantly tipped away.
However, persistence paid off with Maltby finishing off an Allen and Panton move.
Netherton ended the match with ten men after a late challenge on Ashley Coddington.
Dave Panton called it the classic game of two halves.
“I thought it was a very good, entertaining game.
“Our second half was great, the lads really turned the pace up.
“Man of the match was the Netherton keeper who made four or five great saves.”
Harrox: Kenealy, Groves, Johnson, Coddington, Patterson. King (c), Panton (Grimwood), Allen, Townsend, Maltby. Watkin (Bradbury). Sub not used Lambe-Hyner.
