City shares the spoils with Darlington after an action-packed second half finishes in a 2-2 draw at New Meadow Park
Sublime finishes from both Lucas Tomlinson and Matt McClure gave City the lead twice however they were unable to shut out Darlington.
The first big chance fell to Darlington when Junior Mondal was slid through on goal with Liam Armstrong spreading himself well to save, for the ball to fall to Darlington who got another shot off which Jordon Thompson clearing off the line.
On the 29th minute, Ben Gerring made way for young `Jack Hill after getting a knock in a hefty challenge. An uneventful half finishing 0-0.
Not long after the second half began, McClure latched onto a ball in the box and struck home giving the keeper no chance.
However, City switched off from a corner in the 54th minute with Darlington able to get a free header levelling the game.
Lucas Tomlinson, who looked lively all afternoon finished beautifully to curl the ball into the bottom corner in the 63rd minute.
From this moment, City looked good to follow up last week’s win against Farsley Celtic, however in the 80th minute, the City defence allowed Darlington to bring the ball down from a cross and finish.
Goal scorer Lucas Tomlinson left the field in the 84th minute for Danny King as City pushed for the winner but Darlington managed to hold out.
The young Bristol Rovers loanee, Tomlinson, on scoring his first goal said:
‘’It’s a massive confidence booster and I feel now I’ve got one, I can go and get score more and hopefully help the team win games.’’
Although City were unable to take all three points, the line-up saw Fabian Robert back in the mix and a first start for McClure after his injection. Young Jack Hill got more minutes and is looking like a real prospect showing real determination in his performances.
A big week ahead for City as they now face Alfreton on Tuesday at New Meadow Park followed by Spennymoor away next Saturday with Lee Mansell’s men looking to build some momentum.
Report by Ben Nugent / Image by Neil (Tiger Images)