Football
Honours even in openers

Leamington 1 Stourbridge 1

BRAKES battled out a second successive Evo-Stik Southern League Premier Division draw with arch-rivals Stourbridge at the New Windmill on Tuesday night.

Paul Holleran's side made the perfect start by taking a fully deserved tenth minute lead through Tom Berwick who neatly controlled Matt Dodd's cross and hooked a powerful shot into the top corner.

Brakes continued to work tirelessly but their early promise faded as possession was constantly squandered which enabled Stourbridge to get back in contention.

Chances were few and far between but the visitors equalised midway through the second half when tall central defender Nathan Bennett headed home a well flighted free kick from Sean Geddes.

Brakes survived a scare shortly after when Stourbridge striker Luke Benbow raattled the bar with a stunning long range strike but a draw proved a fair outcome.

Brakes have made a satisfactory start to the season but need to add some midfield craft and guile to their honest endeavour if they are to become realistic title winners.

Central defender Liam Daly grabbed a late equaliser as Brakes opened the new season with a hard fought 2-2 draw at Bedford Town on Saturday.

Brakes suffered an early blow when striker Dean Perrow limped off after just 13 minutes and was replaced by Tom Berwick.

Bedford broke the deadlock two minutes before the break when Mark Bell's shot was blocked by new keeper Kevin Sawyer but the rebound struck defender James Mace and flew into his own net.

Brakes got back on level terms two minutes into the second half when Berwick ended a promising run by unleashing a low drive which left home keeper Ian Brown helpless.

Bedford regained the lead after 72 minutes when Nick Beasant escaped his marker and clinically finished from close range but Brakes hit back two minutes from time when Daly's well struck free kick was deflected beyond Brown to earn a share of the spoils.

Brakes entertain Hitchin Town this Saturday (3pm) before visiting newly-promoted neighbours Bedworth United on Monday (3pm).

Brakes marksman Tom Berwick tussles with Stourbridge defender Nathan Bennett who grabbed a second half equaliser on Tuesday. Photo supplied by Sally Ellis. (s)

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