Boss bows out with a draw

Departing Newark Town boss Rupert Thomas said he was delighted with the application of his players as they ended the season — and his tenure — on a relative high after snatching a last-gasp point at Dronfield Town.

An 87th minute strike from Ben Hage saw Town rise to fifth spot in the Abacus Lighting Central Midlands Football League, but if results do not go their way they could end the campaign in eighth.

Newark had taken the lead in the tenth minute through Zico Grinion before the home side equalised, then edged in front either side of the half-time break.

Thomas — whose side have struggled at times this season with player availability and selection issues — said he was ultimately pleased with what he saw on his last day at the helm.

“I was very pleased with the lads today,” he said.

“Those who were drafted in did very well coming in and getting a draw. We have made a lot of changes today so we are delighted with the result and performance.

“It was an end-of-season match, but I thought some of younger lads put in a good shift and we thoroughly deserved our point.”

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