Shropshire County League First Division:
FC Hodnet 2-2 Alport Reserves
HIGH fliers Hodnet were favourites for all three points at the start of this local derby but Alport proved stubborn opponents.
In an evenly balanced match Alport opened the scoring in the 25th minute when Jordy Kennedy latched onto keeper Ryan Wilkinson's long clearance and lobbed the ball over the advancing Hodnet keeper into the empty net.
Hodnet went close to scoring moments later when their striker was put through on goal, but Wilkinson blocked his shot and the rebound was blasted wide.
Alport then threatened to increase their lead, but failed to convert several crosses that flashed across the Hodnet six yard box.
In the second period Alport found themselves under pressure as Hodnet pressed for an equaliser.
In the 50th minute Hodnet scored after a wind assisted free kick from 30 yards struck the Alport bar and landed at the feet of their striker, who made no mistake.
The hosts then took the lead in the 55th minute when a driven cross was only partially cleared and Hodnet's striker headed home from close range.
Alport rallied and George Haller had his strike from Steve Burchell’s pass well saved. Ben Woods then went close with a back post header from a free kick.
Alport's determination was finally rewarded when in the 75th minute midfielder Christian Langdon lifted the ball into the far corner of the net to earn a share of the points. Andy Edge was Alport's mom.
n Alport host FC Hodnet in a quick County League return at Yockings Park on Saturday, 2pm kick-off.