Stockport pegged back as Harrogate keep up unbeaten run

Posted Sunday, February 04, 2024 by PA

Stockport’s lead at the top of the League Two table was reduced to four points after they were held to a 1-1 draw at home to in-form Harrogate.

Connor Lemonheigh-Evans’ second goal in as many games cancelled out Dean Cornelius’ opener for the visitors, but County were unable to find the winner against a side now unbeaten in five matches.

Harrogate went ahead in the 17th minute when Matty Daly turned brilliantly on a pass played into him before crossing to Cornelius for a tap-in.

The Hatters drew level, though, on the half-hour mark, Lemonheigh-Evans finishing from close range from Macauley Southam-Hales’ pull-back.

Isaac Olaofe had two good headed chances for the hosts before half-time but there was nothing to separate the teams at the break.

Substitute Ibou Touray’s glancing header from Odin Bailey’s delivery forced an impressive save out of visiting goalkeeper James Belshaw just after the restart.

Lemonheigh-Evans came agonisingly close to putting County in front in the 71st minute, with his shot deflecting narrowly wide.

Belshaw was called into action again 10 minutes later, turning substitute Myles Hippolyte’s attempt from distance over the crossbar.

The home side continued to push for the winner, with Akil Wright’s effort in the dying moments deflecting just wide, but Harrogate held on to secure a valuable point.