The newly crowned North East Youth Alliance League champions Grimsby Town were held to a 2-2 draw away at North West leaders Preston North End in an entertaining encounter at Springfields Training Ground on Wednesday afternoon.

With a 1pm kick-off in Lancashire, Town started brightly and threatened early on when Sharp tested the Preston goalkeeper from close range within the opening minutes.

The Mariners’ positive start was rewarded after 11 minutes when they took the lead. Catchpole delivered the ball into the area where Charlie Elliott rose well to head back across goal and into the bottom corner to put Town ahead.

Grimsby continued to press for a second, with Sharp again going close, only to see his effort well saved by the Preston stopper. At the other end, Auton kept Town’s lead intact with a composed display in goal, dealing confidently with several long-range efforts from the hosts.

Town carried their momentum into the second half and doubled their advantage shortly after the restart. Once again it was Catchpole providing the assist, finding Elliott, who finished from close range to make it 2-0.

The visitors continued to create chances as they looked to extend their lead. Manyika went close, while Sharp was again denied by the Preston goalkeeper. Town were also awarded a penalty but were unable to convert as the keeper produced another save.

Preston pulled a goal back midway through the half when a move that appeared to be offside ended with the ball tapped in on the goal line to make it 2-1.

Town continued to threaten on the break, with Manyika again going close, but the hosts found a late equaliser when they were awarded a stoppage-time penalty, which was converted to secure a 2-2 draw.

Despite the late setback, Town produced another strong performance on the road against the North West division leaders as they continue their season following the confirmation of their North East Youth Alliance League title.

Town: Auton; Edwards, Pratt, Catchpole, Elliott, Graham, Booth (65′ Horsman), Peterson, Sharp, E Smith, Manyika (60′ Chisholm)

Unused: Roberts, Bryan, Ward.

UTM