Whether it was fatigue finally kicking in from the punishing schedule of two games a week over an extended period or already-relegated Workington playing with the freedom that comes from knowing your fate is sealed, Guiseley failed to secure the win that would have guaranteed a place in the play-offs in a drab affair at Borough Park this afternoon.
Having had their relegation confirmed on Saturday, the home side took the game to the Lions early on but looked vulnerable at the back. Even so, the Lions’ wayward passing meant that Danijel Nizic in between the sticks was never seriously troubled in the first 45 minutes.
Indeed, the visitors had stand-in keeper Steve Dickinson to thank for keeping them level after he pulled off a double save midway through the first half. The nearest that Guiseley came to registering a shot on target was when Stephen Hindmarch diverted Oli Johnson’s cross against his own upright.
It was no suprise when Workington took the lead through Godwin Abadaki on 52 minutes as he converted from close range a cross that slack defending had failed to cut out. Stung into action at last, the Lions were level seven minutes later when Adam Boyes took a pass from Johnson and produced a delightful finish, lobbing Nizic from a tight angle.
Even then, the Reds could have won it but for another two decisive stops by Dickinson. First he rescued Danny Hall’s indecision to deny Abadaki and then he pulled of another telling save before the home side struck the upright late on.
The share of the spoils, coupled with Boston’s 2-0 win over North Ferriby, sees the Lions’ lead reduced to just three points, which leaves them requiring at least a draw from Saturday’s final game at home to Gloucester City. If the Lions lose and Boston win at Worcester City, United would progress into the play-offs courtesy of a better goal difference.
Mark Bower’s post-match interview
Team:
1-Dickinson
2-Holdsworth
3- Meynell
4-Hall
5-Ellis
6-Lawlor
7-Brooksby (Parker)
8-Boshell
9-Boyes 59
10- Johnson (O) (Williams)
11-Rothery
12- Harrison
14-Potts
15-Parker
16-Williams
18-Drench