ST HELENS Town travelled to near neighbours Haydock FC in a fixture that some fans had dubbed the 'Coal Firm' derby and came away with a 1-1 draw.

Chances were and far between early on despite Town dominating field position and possession.

The deadline was broken on 39 minutes when outstanding centre back Chris Foster fired in a 25 yard free kick after Charlie Simpson had been fouled reducing Haydock to 10 men.

As is often the case when a man down, the 'Yickers' rallied and stoutly held Town at bay for the remainder of the game.

Town's closest chance to a second came when Liam Diggle rattled the Haydock bar.

In the last minute an outstanding Kelly cross was met with a bullet header from Nathan Ashcroft to equalise for Haydock and dent Town's hopes for a 4th win this season.

(Image: Mary Castrogiovanni)

Outstanding for Town was right back Alex Petterson who has come back from a long term knee injury this season.

Town remain top of the league and return to action this Saturday 14 September at PSD stadium, Ruskin against Maine Road with a 3pm kick off.