OLD RUTS 4 CROYGAS 4

The Old Ruts missed an opportunity to close on the league leaders when they conceded a late equaliser at home to the division's bottom team in this eight-goal thriller.

Croygas went 2-0 up within half an hour, thanks in no small part to some defensive errors.

Jeremy Capper equalised after getting on the end of a good cross to head home. However, Croygas scored again just before the break to lead 3-2.

A better start to the second half saw the Ruts regain the initiative as wing-back Graham Berry was brought down in the area and Leon Trowbridge converted the penalty. Trowbridge then put the Ruts 4-3 up when he scored with an excellent cross-shot.

Croygas made it 4-4 in the 85th minute when their unmarked striker lashed home from 12 yards out. They could have nicked all three points in injury time but for a block from Ruts keeper Keith Bird, who ensured a fair result.

HERSHAM RBL A' 2 OLD RUTLISHIANS RES 3

A gutsy performance from a Hersham side two divisions below the Old Ruts ensured this League Cup first round tie was closer than expected.

Despite dominating the first half the Ruts were only 1-0 up thanks to striker Tom Goodwin's first of the season. He reacted first when James Bone's volley was parried into his path on the half-hour mark.

After 60 Hersham equalised. Darren Knott restored the Ruts advantage, shooting home after a neat one-two with Barber. Barber on 75 minutes slid in Goodwin's low cross for 3-1.

Hersham didn't give in as Shaw made a smart save from another free-kick, before he was beaten with just five minutes left. But the Ruts held on and progress to a third round tie at Greenside Res, as they have a bye in round two.

November 6, 2001 16:00