Whaley Bridge squandered an early lead on the way to dropping two points at home to newly promoted Sandbach United.

George Burgess fired his side in front inside the opening 60 seconds but Whaley found themselves behind after conceding two second half goals before Ray Dwolitka’s strike earned the hosts a point.

Whaley charged out of the blocks and took an early lead when Rob Newton’s clipped pass found Burgess who rifled the ball home in emphatic fashion.

The home side continued to dominate for the first 20 minutes and neat work down both flanks threatened to open up their visitors on a number of occasions.

As the first half wore on, Sandbach gained a foothold in the game and began to create their own chances; James Tattersall saved smartly from Josh Lane before Dan Whelan was called upon to clear at the near post as United probed for a leveller.

Despite fading after a bright start, Whaley did have the opportunity to double their advantage going into the break but, after rounding the ‘keeper, Dwolitka saw his shot rebound off the post before being cleared.

After the interval Sandbach were given the chance to draw level when the referee awarded a penalty much to the disbelief of the home side and Josh Lane stepped up and sent Tattersall the wrong way.

With the hosts still reeling Sandbach took the lead;  Lloyd Dube-Palmer finishing well from the edge of the box to make it 1-2.

However, the visitor’s lead was short lived as Ray Dwolitka poked the ball home having latched onto George Burgess’ through ball.

A late Dwolitka effort looked to have given Whaley all three points but his glancing header rebounded back off the crossbar as the points were shared.

Whaley travel to Crewe FC on Saturday.

The reserves also drew 2-2 against Sandbach United; Ben Lomas and Charlie Lacey with the goals against their second string.

Team:

Tattersall, Sutton, Whelan, Newton, Gemmell, W Bailey, G Burgess, Broome, J Burgess (M Brown), Christie (J Gregory), Dwolitka

Man of the Match: Jace Broome