Hunslet Club Res 1 Oxenhope Rec Res 1

OXENHOPE kept their West Yorkshire League Alliance One title hopes in their own hands thanks to a late penalty from Chris Day.

Having won 21 of their 22 league games, this was their first draw of the season but it could prove crucial in their battle for the championship with Beeston Reserves, who they host on Saturday.

Despite a sluggish start in their final away game, the first clear-cut chance fell to Owen Williamson, who headed straight at the keeper from Day's cross.

Oxenhope should have taken the lead on 20 minutes when the ball was headed off the line three times from a corner before the keeper claimed it.

Rec's defence had to be on top form to keep the home attack at bay. But a lapse in concentration from a free-kick after 35 minutes gave a striker space and time to pick his spot and put the hosts 1-0 up. Oxenhope started the second half strongly, with Day and Williamson working tirelessly to stop the back four from playing the ball out.

Despite the pressure, Oxenhope found it hard to break down a well-organised defence. Chances eventually fell to Driver, Day, Williamson and Joe Jalil but were not converted.

With time running out, Day was fouled in the box and he calmly beat the keeper for a vital point.

Now Oxenhope prepare for the visit of second-placed Beeston on Saturday (2.30pm) in a fixture that could well decide who will be champions.