REPORT | Widnes 1-1 Stalybridge Celtic

There was a big game feel when play-off contenders Widnes and Stalybridge Celtic went head-to-head at the DCBL Stadium.

And the two sides couldn’t be separated as the hosts came from behind to rescue a point as the spoils were shared.

Darius Osei had the game’s first real sight of goal, but he could only scuff a shot wide, while Jack McGowan returned the favour at the other end, glancing a tame header off target.

Defences were on top in this first-ever meeting between the two clubs, with captain Connor O’Grady particularly shining at the back for the visitors.

Stalybridge took the lead 13 minutes from time when Darius Palma converted a penalty after Osei was fouled by Ste Irwin.

But Widnes earned their point when Ste Milne nearly burst the net from 25 yards out late on.