Consett battled back from a two goal half time deficit to to take a point from their first visit to Marske for six seasons.

Manager Kenny Lindoe was without Ryan Bell who was on holiday and the suspended David Scorer, while Craig Robson and Jack Stanger were also unavailable. Michael Pearson made a quick dash from work to arrive just about ten minutes before kick off to take his place in the team alongside Scott Martindale who was making his first appearance since re-signing from Newcastle Benfield. Gavin Ross also returned to the starting line-up.

But it was the home side who settled first and they took the lead after only eight minutes. Ormerod’s clipped ball into the box found Thompson unmarked at the far post and he calmly slotted past the helpless Barry Poskett.

Dale Burrell and Ryan King shot wide as The Steelmen looked to get back on level terms but after 17 minutes the home side doubled their lead in controversial fashion.

A free–kick was awarded against Carl Piecha for a foul on Thompson. The Consett skipper was unhappy at the award and was called over to the referee for a word. However, before he could regain his position Marske were allowed to take a quick free-kick which found Brunskill unmarked on the edge of the box. His shot cannoned back off the post but Carling followed in to slam the ball home. Piecha was booked for further protests.

On 27 minutes a free-kick was half cleared to Piecha who forced home keeper Willey to save while seven minutes later at the other end Poskett saved above his head from a Bradley shot.

Half time: Marske 2-0 Consett

The Steelmen reduced the deficit nine minutes into the second period. A good move down the Consett right ended with Burrell playing the ball into Lewis Teasdale who gave Willey no chance.

Five minutes later Thompson almost increased United’s lead but Poskett made a good diving save to deny him.

Michael Mackay had a great chance to equalise after 67 minutes when he ran onto Burrell’s pass but his shot was too close to the keeper who got down to save well. A minute later Burrell cut in from the by-line but shot across the face of goal.

After 78 minutes Burrell’s right wing cross found the head of King but his effort went wide.

But Consett got the equaliser that their second half display had merited with nine minutes to go. Lund played the ball over the defence for Mackay who rounded the keeper to net despite Marske protests that he was offside.

Marske were then reduced to ten men when Cochrane was sent off for a second yellow card. But Consett were unable to take advantage of the extra man.

In fact it was the home side who almost took all three points with a minute to go when Charlton found space to get in a shot but Poskett made a great block to ensure that The Steelmen took something for their efforts.

Full time: Marske 2-2 Consett

ANDREW PEARSON