Northwich Vics 2 Salford City 2

JIM Gannon’s present to the Northwich Victoria supporters is to have their side top of the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League First Division North at Christmas.

Vics shared the points with fellow promotion-chasers Salford City on Saturday, which was enough to keep them top of the pile.

Abou Sanogo opened the scoring with a seventh-minute screamer before Phil Edghill levelled for Class of ’92-backed Salford with just over 20 minutes remaining.

The visitors then took the lead 10 minutes later through debutant Tom Buckley, but Mike Clarke nodded in off the post in added time to seal Gannon’s side a point.

“I am sure that both teams will rue the missed opportunity of getting all three points especially since we have both got used to collecting maximum points recently,” he said.

“However, when the dust settles I guess everyone will be pleased to get something from the game for their efforts and endeavour.

“In the end a point was enough to keep us top, as results went favourably in regard to the top four positions.

“So for Christmas we remain top and it is a nice Christmas present for all the club officials, staff and supporters who have worked hard to move the club forward over the last year.”

However, Gannon was disappointed with the award of Salford’s first goal.

“Tim Deasy will feel particular hard done by for the first goal,” he added. “He did well to keep the ball in and then the linesman from a poor position well behind the line of play gave a corner.

“From the resultant corner Tim was clearly fouled as he went to punch the ball. But the referee placed himself in a poor position and failed to make the correct position, and he deserved the wrath of the players for not spotting the foul.”

Vics: Deasy, Smalley (Gorman 6), Ali, Clarke, Henry, Cook, Dixon, Roddy, Sanogo, Bennett (Sherratt 77), Burnett (Abadaki 74). Subs not used: Meadowcroft, Smith.