Relegation rivals Wimborne Town and Merthyr Town were not able to gain an advantage on the other with the content resulting in a 1-1 draw, courtesy of a late equaliser from the home side.
Wimborne Town were forced into a last-minute equaliser to rescue a crucial point against fellow relegation rivals Merthyr Town.
Both teams started and ended the game in the relegation zone, with a fantastic freekick late on by Wimborne giving them a chance to continue to fight for their place in the Southern League Premier South
Wimborne were able to get out the blocks quickly, forcing pressure and shots on the Merthyr defence, making Jaimie Cogman pull off some good saves early on.
After Wimborne's good start to the game, play was temporarily halted due to a floodlight error in the 20th minute. The game was able to continue 15 minutes later.
Soon after the floodlight issue, defender Callum Chugg was shown a straight red following a reckless challenge on Frazer Thomas. It was a disappointing way to mark the first half as the Magpies were playing well, but their work was undone as their task to gain three points became even more challenging.
The situation went from bad to worse for Wimborne, as Thomas (the man who had been on the end of the red card challenge) was able to get some revenge in the form of a goal.
After some silky play beating several men in the Wimborne box, Thomas’ effort beat AFC Bournemouth loanee Billy Terrell to put the Romans one up just before half time.
In the second half Wimborne looked to play aggressive football. Their determination and resilience to score almost put the game to bed as they came close to conceding a second in the 72nd minute.
Terrell showed his worth as he pulled off a stunning double save from close range, keeping his team in the match with the hope of finding the equaliser.
It wasn't till the 89th minute in which Wimborne’s efforts would finally pay off.
A freekick from 35 yards out was given and Charlie Gunson found the top left-hand corner as his shot dipped and curled over the wall beating the keeper who didn’t look set or ready for the strike.
This was the Magpies’ first league goal in three games and a performance they can be proud of and look to build on as they face another relegation candidate, Kings Langley, in their next league game.
For Merthyr town it’s a game to forget. It was a real chance to get out the relegation zone having a 1-0 lead and the opposition being down to 10 men. It should be seen as two points dropped and they will have to improve to have a chance to stay in this Division.
Attendance: 264