Match report: Ringwood Town 1-1 Romsey Town, Ben Bradwell’s gave Ringwood the lead, but Romsey rallied to earn a Wessex League Division One point

Ringwood Town took a share of the points in a hard-fought mid-table Wessex League Division One clash with a physical Romsey Town side.

The visitors, Romsey, came into the match knowing a win would leave them one point behind Ringwood, but the hosts took the lead before the final whistle arrived with the score level.

Ringwood Town manager Fran Mathers said he felt a draw was probably a fair result: “A really good competitive Wessex League game. Both teams tried to play the right way alongside a fierce determination from the players to get the points.

“I felt a point was a fair result, with both teams having good opportunities and having decent chances towards the end of the game.

“A good reaction to losing 3-0 at their place earlier in the season, but were frustrated at another home draw. If you can’t win, don’t lose, so we’ll take the point against an improving Romsey and move on.”

Ringwood made a bright start to the match, with the opening goal coming after just 14 minutes from long-time Ringwood servant Ben Bradwell. After winning a free-kick just outside the box, keeper Miles Bartram did well to push the ball away from his near post. However, Lee Vint unselfishly slid the ball back into the danger area, where Bradwell had the simple task of turning the ball home.

Ringwood pushed for the second goal, but Bartram was dominant in his area, claiming every ball that came his way.

As the match passed the hour mark, the robust Romsey side, who have been in much better form lately than their league status would imply, pulled themselves level, with Aaron Scott providing the finish.

After the match, Cass lister was selected as the winner of the man-of-the-match award.

Ringwood Town plays host when welcoming second-placed Frimley Green on Saturday at 3pm.

Ringwood Town: W. Griffin, B. Bradwell, P. Correia, B. Harris, T. Hopper, C. Lister, L. Pothas, J. Rabin, J. Ridland, L. Vint, J. Wintle. Subs: B. Chester, J. Petty.