DATE: 19/04/2008

An amazing point at Chester-le-Street confirmed West Auckland's status in Division One next term - although a positive result seemed scarcely believable after 30 minutes.

With only 11 players available, manager Phil Owers took over the keepers jersey with regular keeper Mark Bell starting up front. Also up front was Leigh Grant, traditionally a centre half although has been out injured all season.

Chester opened the scoring within the first 20 minutes and then Grant limped out injured. 1 down and with only 10 men, West continued to battle and although Brian Fairhurst's penalty for handball was saved, Ian Maddison smashed in the rebound for a draw.

West defended in numbers and chased every ball. When Chester did have efforts the woodwork denied them twice along with an excellent save from a free kick. The battling 110% performance was greeted by celebrations by West fans at the final whistle.