Runcorn FC Halton 1 Barrow 1

MANAGER Liam Watson finally had something to be cheerful about last Tuesday night when his new Runcorn FC Halton side claimed their first point this season, writes Debbie Quaile.

Following their disappointing opener against Accrington Stanley, the Linnets again had to come from behind after a disasterous first half saw an early strike put their Cumbrian opponents 1-0 ahead.

But a brave fightback after the break secured the home side a share of the spoils, with Matthew McNeil opening his account for the season with a glancing header past Barrow keeper, Neil Bennett.

Both sides took time to settle early on but it was Runcorn who looked the livelier, with debutant Wes Kinney, who impressed Watson during pre-season, creating most of the early chances.

After hitting a few long-range efforts, he was instrumental in the best move of the half when a good passing move allowed Watson to break into space but Kinney over-hit his through-ball, which was comfortably dealt with by Bennett.

It proved costly too as, just minutes before half time, Barrow striker Chris Ward took advantage of a mistake in the Linnet's defence to round keeper Tony McMillan and score.

Again, Watson's teamtalk during the break seemed to do the trick, with the home side emerging with heads held high.

The popular player-manager also led by example on the pitch and was involved in every move to claim the equaliser.

Both McNeil and Gary Lunt came close but failed to latch onto two dangerous crosses from Watson, who then cut inside two defenders only to lift his shot over the bar.

The goal finally came though with 20 minutes to go when Watson found Dave Gamble in space to whip over a cross tailor-made for McNeil, who headed home.

And Runcorn could have grabbed the winner towards the end when the experienced forward found Steve Carragher in acres of space in the box with another cross, but he couldn't direct his header on target.