Motormen forced to settle for a point (From Wirral Globe)

Motormen forced to settle for a point

3:34pm Tuesday 8th January 2013 in Sport By Phil Jarvis

MOTORS had to be content with a point after an early Andy Nicholas header was cancelled out by a Felipe Barcelos strike at Court Place Farm.

Just two minutes had been played when Oxford failed to clear a Louis Barnes' throw in and Nicholas was on hand to head home after being left unmarked.

It could have been 2-0 shortly after but Obi Anoruo’s strike on goal was well saved by Matt Ingram.

The home side were level on 14 minutes when Declan Benjamin found Brazilian Felipe Barcelos who let fly with a spectacular strike giving Motors keeper Zac Jones no chance.

Both sides continued to have their chances in this openly fought contest. Anoruo went close again with a powerfully hit strike which flew across the goal then Craig Mahon fired wide before being denied from point-blank range by Oxford keeper Ingram.

In the second half, Oxford went down to ten men after Declan Benjamin was sent off for a reckless challenge. Despite the one man advantage, Motors were unable to find a winner as they piled on the pressure.

In the final stages of the game, midfielder Chris Noone nearly grabbed the winner but his fine effort struck the crossbar and Motors had to settle for a draw.

Vauxhall : Jones, Wainwright, Barnes, Hannigan, Nicholas, Clowes, Mahon (Fearnehough 85), Noone, Rutter, Stott, Anoruo (Burns 79)
Sub not used: Martindale

Attendance: 183

Motors are at home this Saturday, January 12, when they entertain Bishop’s Stortford. Kick off at Rivacre Park is 3pm.

On Tuesday, January 15,  the Motormen play Conference Premier side Hyde in the Cheshire Senior Cup.

The tie will be at Rivacre Park and kick-off is 7.45pm. There will be reduced admission prices for this cup fixture.