DRAMATIC was the word as 1874 Northwich made their first appearance in the Northern Premier League.

A 94th-minute back-post header from Ryan Mitchell earned the Greens, or the Oranges as they were in their bright new away kit, a deserved 2-2 draw at Clitheroe.

 

1874, trailing 2-1 at the break, dominated the second half and came inches from an equaliser in the 79th minute when Taylor Kennerley's effort struck a post.

It was a lively start to life at the higher level for the team co-managed by Wayne Goodison and Paul Bowyer.

Three goals in four minutes had a healthy crowd leaping up and down.

Sefton Gonzalez's powerful header put the hosts ahead in the 11th minute.

Almost immediately a spectacular bicycle kick attempt by 74 striker Scott McGowan saw the ball land in the bottom corner.

Clitheroe were back in front two minutes later as a result of a controversial penalty from which Cole Lonsdale sent Tony Aghayere the wrong way.

One sour point for 1874 was a serious looking injury for 58th-minute sub Harry Cain.

1874 will play their first home game in Northern Premier League West when they host Kidsgrove Athletic at Townfield on Tuesday.