Northwich Victoria 2 Carlisle United 2

Last updated : 17 August 2004 By Footymad Previewer

Carlisle United made a little history by scoring and conceding their first goals in non-league football, but a win will have to wait a while longer.

For the second game running, Northwich Victoria, wooden spoon winners last year came from behind to force a spirited 2-2 draw.

Urged on by an 1,100 strong following, Carlisle made all the early running and had the first-half dangerman in Carlos Roca.

He was a constant threat and a minute before the break, pierced the home defence with a neatly flicked pass which Karl Hawley converted from close range.

Ten minutes into the second half, home goalkeeper Ben Connett completely missed a Chris Lumsdon corner and Kevin Gray headed home.

For only a moment it looked as if Carlisle were on route to victory, because Northwith quickly halved the arrears.

Roy Hunter caught the Carlisle defence napping and Mark Devlin pumped the ball over stranded goalkeeper Matt Glennon.

Former Cumbrians striker John Allan retreated into midfield as Vics made tactical changes and in the 63rd minute he suddenly found himself in space and lashed home a terrific shot from nearly 30 yards.

Try as they might United could not find their earlier momentum and they only had half chances as they ended the game on top.