MANAGER Les Jones was left frustrated after Malvern Town conceded late on to draw 2-2 with Black Country Rangers in the West Midlands (Regional) League Premier Division on Saturday.
Former Derby County striker Shaq McDonald gave Rangers the lead before Sean Smith headed home to level the scores just before half-time.
Matt Fusco then scored on his Hillsiders debut to nose the hosts ahead but a late strike from McDonald ensured the spoils were shared at the HDAnywhere Community Stadium.
The stalemate extended Malvern’s unbeaten league run to seven games but Jones was disappointed their 100 per cent came to an end.
“When you concede with just a few minutes to go it’s always disappointing,” he said.
“The draw was probably a fair result as they have a very good striker in McDonald who is too good for this level of football.
“Our keeper Charlie Weaver has made numerous saves in the first half to keep us in the game but it is frustrating we could not take more of our chances.
“Despite that it has been a fantastic start to the season and it’s pleasing to see we are still unbeaten.”
Second-placed Malvern will hope to continue their fine start to the new campaign tonight (Wednesday) when they play host to Tividale.
The Black Country side have lost just once since their relegation from the Midland League Premier Division last term and Jones believes the game will be another test for his players.
Only Dene Whittal-Williams and Luke Molloy are doubtful with ankle knocks.
“Our aim is to win and our aim is to keep this unbeaten run going,” Jones said.
“Tividale will be a really tough test but I am looking forward to two very good sides battling it out.
“As we do not have a game on Saturday it would be nice to go into the short break with a positive result.”
Malvern’s next clash after the Tividale game comes next Wednesday when they welcome Dudley Town to the HDAnywhere Community Stadium for a league encounter.