East Gwent League Division One - Thornwell Red and White A 4 Underwood Athletic 4

A WEEK after declaring his team would have a big say in where the Division One title ends up, Underwood boss Craig Johnson’s promise took on extra importance.

After watching his men score twice in the last five minutes to draw 4-4 with Thornwell Red and White, a delighted Johnson paid tribute to his team’s determination.

“We were trailing 4-2 with only about five minutes left but in true Underwood style we never gave up,” he said.

“Thornwell must have been thinking the three points were theirs but we pushed on and Alex Ryall grabbed the fourth goal with minutes to spare.

“It was the result we were hoping for. We may not be in the title race but we realise we have a say in who wins the title.

“The next game – at home to Caldicot Castle – will also be a major test.”

That game was due to have been played last night (Tuesday), weather permitting.

Leaders Castle, who still have to welcome their rivals to their home ground, went into game last night a point ahead and a goal difference of +92 while Thornwell’s goal difference is +65.

Three points gained at Underwood would give Castle a fairly tight grip on the league trophy despite still having a number of games to go.

But if they drew or lost last night, the point gained by Thornwell will look better.

Red and White player Terry Woodward believes Thornwell should be capable of seeing a game out when they are ahead.

“Credit to Underwood they never stopped pressing forward,” he said.

“We played well for 80 minutes and were well on top, leading 4-2 but they threw players forward and we didn’t deal with a few balls the way we should have done.

“We should be seeing the game out when two goals up with five minutes to go.

“Two good finishes by Rory Garey – including a nice lob over the keeper for his second – gave us a good start and Dan Hines scored the third with another great finish before Andy Taylor struck the fourth.”

Underwood’s scorers were Alex Ryall, Jamie Richardson. Kyle Harrison and to celebrate his birthday, Elliott Camfield.

In the other games, Undy Athletic beat Sudbrook CC 2-1 and in Division Two Severn Tunnel edged out visitors Thornwell Red and White 3-2.

Gareth Jones and a welcome goal for Ben Corbett on his return from a lengthy injury lay-off were Thornwell’s scorers in what the visitor’ manager Keith Tipper described as a good box-to-box encounter.

“The pitch wasn’t great but playing against a team that should be in the Gwent County League, I think we did extremely well,” he added.

Other fixtures due to have been played last night were Sudbrook CC v Rockfield Rovers (Division One) and Caldicot Town v Severn Tunnel (Division Two). Mathern are due to take on neighbours Chepstow Athletic tonight (Wednesday).

Bob Cypher