Brid Town battle back for a 1-1 draw on the road at Hallam

There was a lively start at the world’s oldest football ground with both sides enjoying spells on the ball and a few early openings, though clear-cut chances were limited in the opening stages.

Hallam broke the deadlock after 18 minutes. A dangerous ball fizzed across the face of goal and was recycled to the edge of the area, where Hallam attacker Brandon Bradbury beat his man before driving a low effort into the corner.

The hosts had a strong spell following the goal and went close to doubling their advantage. Alex Baird produced an excellent save low to his left to keep Bridlington in the contest, while another Hallam effort was dramatically cleared off the line as the Seasiders held firm heading into the break.

Bridlington returned for the second half with greater urgency and began to grow into the game.

Ahmed Salam threatened from distance after beating his man on the left, but his strike drifted over the bar as the visitors looked for a way back.

That moment arrived in spectacular fashion on 66 minutes. Joe Batty collected the ball on the edge of the area and unleashed a superb strike that flew into the top right corner to bring the Seasiders level.

The equaliser sparked Bridlington into life and they pushed hard for a winner. Ben Farrar came closest when he met a cross on the six-yard box, but the Hallam goalkeeper managed to get a fingertip to the effort and tip it over the bar.

Soon after, York loan striker Farrar appeared to be pulled to the ground at the back post from a corner, but appeals for a penalty were waved away.

A late clash of heads in the Bridlington box led to a lengthy stoppage, with players receiving treatment, and Adam Blakeley having to leave the game with a cut above the eye, before play eventually resumed.

Despite six minutes of added time, neither side could find a breakthrough and the points were shared.