Harleston Magpies pegged back late in draw at Chelmsford

However, they were not able to inject some of the intensity that player coach Tim Whiteman had instilled into the team since the beginning of pre-season. The first 20 minutes was arguably some of the worst of the season.

However, the squad reflected on the values of what it means to be a ‘pie’ and managed to raise the intensity to a respectable standard.

This was rewarded by some brilliant build up play down the right hand side through Tom Sumner who appears to be maturing likes fine wine.

Simon Hipwell managed to use his assets to block off defenders after a breakdown of play in the D whilst a rip-roarer of a strike from eventual man of the match Matt Richardson gave Magpies the lead.

After a warning at half-time from Whiteman, who demanded more from his team, Magpies were keen to convert more chances and put this game to bed.

Magpies back four, headed by ‘veterans’ Leigh Sitch and Andrew Bedwell, raised the tempo of transfer. This gave subsequent room to new signing Jonty Gosling at left half who linked up with new vice-captain Thomas Ridley, who linked with the forward line well to win a short corner.

A slip flick from Ridley was then deflected off a Chelmsford player and Magpies were 2-0 up.

But with just four minutes to go, Chelmsford weren’t disheartened and chased the game hard. After a Magpies turnover and subsequent Chelmsford breakaway resulted in a goal, the home team had theirs tails up.

And Chelmsford won a short corner after full pressing a tired magpies side, which they neatly finished to end the game 2-2.

Magpies players felt disheartened after having most of the possession during the encounter.

However, the result was probably a fair one with Magpies far from their best on the day and knew they are capable of much more.

This week Magpies host a struggling Ipswich in what promises to be a riveting East Anglian derby. Push back is at 2pm.