Colliers draw with FC Hartlepool in season opener

Easington Colliery were forced to settle for a point in a 2-2 draw at home to FC Hartlepool on Friday night.

The Colliers led by two through goals from Liam McBryde and Denny Tapping, but they were then reduced to 10 men when Brad Forster was sent off, and FC – in their first ever Northern League game – came back to draw with goals from Alex Hutchinson and Ben Henderson.

Upon kick-off, FC started well, but chances were created at both ends, with Tapping and Jay Roper both going close for the Colliers.

As the first half wore on, the Colliers came into the game, and in the 38th minute, the deadlock was broken through a controversial penalty. Roper was fouled in the penalty area, but the assistant referee flagged to give FC the free-kick. After a discussion with the referee, a penalty was awarded. McBryde took responsibility and picked out the top corner for his first competitive goal for the club.

Four minutes into the second half, the Colliers doubled their lead. Tapping was released down the right, and he cut in before finishing well.

Two goals up, the Colliers looked comfortable, but halfway through the second half, FC’s first ever Northern League goal halved the deficit. A low cross found Hutchinson a couple of yards out who was left with a simple finish.

With 20 minutes to play, the Colliers were reduced to 10 men, and it looked harsh. Brad Forster’s challenge on Hutchinson saw the referee eventually brandish the red card, but the majority of the 315 strong crowd thought it was only a yellow.

Having halved the deficit and with an extra player, FC’s heads were up, and in the 88th minute, they equalised. Former Collier Henderson took aim from the edge of the penalty area on the right, and it took a slight deflection before finding the near top corner.

Full-time: Easington Colliery 2-2 FC Hartlepool

Next up for me is Frickley Athletic vs Campion.

Easington Colliery: Lowerson, Dobinson, Nelson, Elliott, McGuinness (c), Forster, Tapping, Watson, McBryde (Oliver, 81′), Pickford (Stanton, 82′), Roper (Pearn, 75′)

Unused subs: Eltringham, Hunter

FC Hartlepool: Simpson, Burrows, Naylor (Oakley, 84′), Gavin, Cope (c), Ball, Angus, Daley (Chainey, 68′), Henderson, Hutchinson (Cowan, 73′), Spalding (Smith, 68′)

Unused sub: Cook

Admission: £5 adults, £2 concessions

Programme: £1.50

Attendance: 315

Referee: Kevin McKitterick