ONLY the hand of Lancaster keeper Mark Thornley stood between Kevin Leadbetter and the chance to secure his team's second win of the season on Monday.

Dramatic second half comebacks are rapidly becoming the theme of the season for player-manager Liam Watson's side with Runcorn again close to claiming all three points just before the end.

The home side's Mark Thornley managed to smother a terrific close range shot from Leadbetter in the final minute to ensure the points were shared.

And, although Watson admitted his disappointment a his team's lack of attacking teeth at the Giant Axe, both sides will be relieved to avoid a defeat in what was overall a scrappy match.

The Linnets' first chance came after four minutes when a flick on by the ever-impressive Matthew McNeil found Gary Lunt in space but the midfielder could only direct his effort straight at the keeper.

Eleven minutes later and McNeil was again involved in a promising attack, this time crossing for Steve Carragher whose header flew wide of the post.

Lancaster had their chances though, the best falling to Lee Clitheroe whose shot was well saved by Runcorn's Tony McMillan and, just before half-time McNeil again caused havoc in the Lancaster defence but Thornley managed to claim the ball before the on-rushing Mike Tomlinson.

Neither team were that creative in attack but it was Lancaster who took the lead after 65 minutes following a mistake in the Linnets' defence.

On hand to punish the error was Andy Whittaker who has a habit of scoring vital goals against Runcorn.

Kevin Leadbetter came on to bolster the visitor's attack and they were back on level terms seven minutes from time when Chris Lightfoot scored his third goal in two games to secure a point.

A minute from time, Leadbetter could have made sure of all three though when he ran on to a through ball but Thornley rushed out to make an excellent save.

After the match, Watson said: "There are certainly things we need to work on in training before our next game when I will be looking for marked improvement in our performance."

Runcorn entertain Stalybridge Celtic on Saturday (kick-off 3pm) when u14s will be admitted for free with a paying adult.