Men’s East Conference: Harleston Magpies make their point in 2-2 draw at Brighton

Harleston Magpies made the long journey to Brighton and returned home with a hard-earned point – although it should really have been all three.

The opening exchanges saw both sides take a cautious approach before Brighton took took the lead after a fortunate deflection of Leigh Sitch.

Magpies still looked the better side, having numerous counter- attacking opportunities, and after a number of near misses man-of-the-match Toby Price converted after a rebound off the 'keeper. The visitors continued to make hard work of it and conceded a second goal before half-time while good work from John Livings and his corner defence team ensured Brighton didn't stretch their lead.

Magpies entered the second half with the belief they could get something out of the game and despite a few nervy minutes they were soon back on level terms.

Andy Hipwell converted a cross from Price on the right-hand side, after taking several touches to steady himself.

From then it was all Magpies. Chance after chance came and went and they were just unable to find that third goal.

Injuries and ill-discipline didn't help their cause and when the hosts went down to nine themselves near the end Magpies were unable to take advantage.

The final whistle blew with the score at 2-2, but Harleston came off feeling this was two points lost as Brighton were definitely there for the taking.