In an evenly contested game, every player gave their all for their club, leaving nothing out on the pitch. Defences were on top with central defenders Jordan Spragg and Joe Colley, ably supported by Mason Birch and Lewis Worsey, nullifying the goal threat of Cockerill, Landell and Francis.

Clear cut chances were at a premium the best chance of the half coming from a Landell glancing header well saved by home keeper Tom Carter, For the home side, Ollie Jeeves, Ethan Muckley and Adbdul Bashiru were lively, but could not breach a well organised Khalsa defence, superbly marshalled by Sam Griffiths.

A long range effort from Lewis Worsley was comfortably saved by visiting keeper Tenenowicz, whilst Jeeves and Kie Houlihan were both denied clean strikes on goal.

Khalsa opened the 2nd half brightly, but once again clear chances were at a premium. The work rate and energy of Ben McSkeane, Houlihan and Nathan Oyemade in the Darlaston midfield was exceptional, whilst Jeeves and Bashiru were thwarted by a resolute Khalsa defence. Bashiru failing to get a clean strike at goal, Jeeves shooting wide under pressure from Sawyers.

As the fog fell, visibility reduced as both teams fell victim to the weather conditions.

Chances remained at a premium, neither side troubling the opposition keeper, a draw looking inevitable as the game went on.

Two late Khalsa corners, were superbly defended as the game drew to a close.

For a local derby, the game was played in a superb spirit, no bookings, and no player leaving anything out on the field of play. Referee Jamie Howe should take credit for the way he allowed the game to flow, his two assistants playing their part in a full blooded but excellent local derby.

The draw means Darlaston remain unbeaten in their last four league games, with just one defeat in eight league and cup games under Lovatt's reign.

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