After suffering the same fate away to Great Yarmouth 2 weeks ago, another injury time equaliser denied Ely City all three points away from home!
With both sides eager to maintain their early season climb up the table, it was set to be a close encounter after the Robins won 2-1 in the FA Cup back in August. Joe Brannan was injured in the warmup, So Alfie Rogers stepped in and Tom Stoker returned after missing the Vase game v Fakenham.
Ely City struck first, asserting some early control in midfield and creating chances through quick transitions. The visitors were rewarded in the 17th minute when the impressive Harry Biggs finished a great move in the final third minute to put them 1–0 ahead. Friend harassed the full back inside, then played to Tom Stoker, exchanged passes with Biggs who tucked away. An excellent final third goal. Ben Newton was on hand to make a crucial save to keep the Robin ahead as Tom Stoker and then Biggs again tried to calve out a second.
Stowmarket responded, pressing and forcing Ely into defensive action and staying compact. The home side gradually grew into the game and found an equaliser just before the half hour mark, as Simmons for Stow finished off a good move. Both sides had chances before the break but were unable to break one another down.
HT: Stowmarket 1 – 1 Ely City
The second half opened cagey, with both teams cautious - but also glimpses of attacking forward play. It was City that took their advantage in the 64th minute. Their goal came from a well-worked move down the right hand side. A beautiful cross was delivered, and Alex Kerr arrived near post across his man, finishing off with a deft finish.
Faced with the deficit, Stowmarket pushed forward more urgently, Newton making a smart save at his near post before Ruddy’s last gasp challenge stopped the forward in on goal. Ely City sat deeper as they got men behind the ball, looking dangerous on the break - but the home side’s persistence paid off. In injury time - 90+8’, Stowmarket found their leveller. Salisbury was eventually credited with the goal, firing home a close-range finish to rescue a point to the delight of the home support.
The final whistle blew soon after, and both teams had to settle for a draw.
FT: Stowmarket Town 2 – 2 Ely City
Team: Newton, Hamer, Cook, Partridge, Rogers, Ruddy, Biggs, Brown, Stoker, Friend, Kerr.
Subs: Sutcliffe, Root, Brannan.