A late equaliser denied Avro victory in a tense encounter at the weekend, writes Louie Kennedy.

Going into the game, The RO had not played a league fixture since mid-September - when they defeated Stafford Rangers 3-1 - and had won their previous three games in the Northern Premier League West.

Widnes went in to the game sitting in third place in the league table with 16 points after an impressive start to the season.

Sam Hawley had a great chance to start The RO’ off, but the home defence blocked his attempt.

Five minutes later, some intricate play by Max Davidson and Kyle Harrop almost put Hawley through in on goal.

On the half hour mark, Widnes did have the ball in back of the net but it was disallowed for offside after Avro keeper Grant Shenton had brilliantly kept out the initially shot.

At the other end, an Avro attack resulted in a corner for the visitors.

Davidson whipped in the corner which sailed over the home defence and nestled in the back of the back to give them the lead at the break.

After the break, Chiekh Thiam created an excellent chance but his low cross was cleared.

With less than 15 minutes remaining, James Dwyer had to be substituted off due to obvious discomfort with Sam Rathbone taking his place.

With time ticking away, Widnes were awarded a dubious penalty, which Don McGiveron converted to earn the hosts a draw.