Chelmsford consolidated their top half position after a stirring fightback at New Lodge against Hednesford Town.

The first period saw City rocked after a lively opener from the visitors; a side who only confirmed their Premier Divison status a fortnight ago.

Former Hereford United man Steve Piearce created the first - his trickery on the flanks giving him room to cross for David Berks to convert on 17 minutes.

At the other end Gary Cross smacked the goalpost with a crisp drive from 15 yards, but City were struggling in the middle of the park, where Hednesford's quick approach play brought about some nervous defending from the hosts.

The second goal arrived midway through the half. Luke Corbett was the beneficiary of some more slick midfield play and found himself in on goal. With his initial shot saved by Paul Nicholls, the rebound fell for Piearce who had no problem in netting the second.

Chelmsford were an altogether different proposition in the second period, reducing the arrears on 55 minutes when Pitmen defender David Moss inadvertently headed into his own net under pressure from Austin Berkley.

Paul Parker's men pressured, forcing Hednesford back deep into their own half. And they gained their reward 14 minutes from time when Moss and a fellow defender make a mess of a clearance and Tony Samuels stole in to equalise.

No less than City deserve as they maintain 9th place in the Dr Martens Premier.

Published Monday, April 28, 2003