Chelmsford 2 Guildford 2

Slazenger Men's EHL

Division One

Chelmsford 2 Guildford 2

Chelmsford drew their penultimate league game of the season thanks to a controversial equaliser for Guilford in the final minute of the game.

The home side started the game brightly and deservedly took the lead when Richard Nourse crossed from the left for coach Duncan Woods to powerfully shoot into the top corner.

Chelmsford continued to push forward, with Luke Mepham linking up well with Nourse in particular, the latter's pace causing problems to the Guildford defence all game.

As the half wore on, Guildford started to make their presence felt and, in the final minute of the half, Jason Ward-Horner's reverse stick shot was half stopped by David Hunter. Unfortunately for Chelmsford the ball deflected towards the goal, giving keeper Dean Armstrong no chance.

One goal apiece was possibly a fair reflection of the chances in the half, with Chelmsford perhaps shading the possession.

Chelmsford started the second half strongly once again, but it wasn't until half way through the half that they regained the lead.

On this occasion the roles were reversed to the first goal, with Woods' cross being deflected in by Nourse for his second ever National League goal.

Chelmsford started to take control of the game, with Guildford losing two players to yellow cards.

During this period, Chelmsford had opportunities to double their lead, with two notable chances falling to Mepham.

Firstly, the penalty stroke that he earned was easily saved, but he swiftly followed this up with a powerful shot that hit the post, following a fine solo run from Will Hales.

Then, with a minute left, Guildford were awarded a dubious penalty corner. The drag flick was saved on the line, but the ball ballooned up in the air. With three players challenging for the ball at five foot in the air, an early whistle would have ensured no dangerous play could have occurred, however, play continued and the ball was volleyed home by Edward Sutton, with Chelmsford captain Ian Belchamber breaking his finger in the mêlée.

Chelmsford were then given no chance to respond as the final whistle went soon after.

Next week, Chelmsford have their final game of the season at Old Georgians. The South London side will believe they have an outside chance of promotion through the play-offs, although it will require results elsewhere going their way.