NEEDHAM Market were fortunate not to lose ground in their title chase after both their main challengers also dropped two points at the weekend.
NEEDHAM Market were fortunate not to lose ground in their title chase after both their main challengers also dropped two points at the weekend.
However, the FA Vase semi-finalists were dealt a severe double blow after leading goalscorer and midfield maestro Craig Parker limped off late on, while Scott Wark had earlier been taken off on a stretcher. Kirkley took the lead in the 31st minute when a Jamie Stockeld free-kick was deflected into Needham's net by Joe Jeffard. However it was Jordon Blyth who took the congratulations.
The hosts then had a let-off when Liam Jones lost possession some 40 yards out but Jordon Blyth could not find the empty net.
Needham got a fortunate equaliser when the under-pressure Jeffard knocked the ball past his own goalkeeper, who had left his line.
Final score, Needham Market 1, Kirkley & Pakefield 1.
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