New Mills Vets battled to a hard-earned 2–2 draw against Hyde United in a game full of chances, drama, and late twists.
The Millers got off to a flying start, taking the lead in just the second minute. Tom Coghill raced clear of the Hyde defence and calmly slotted home to put the hosts ahead. It was a promising start, and New Mills looked likely to extend their lead, carving out several clear-cut chances—but a lack of composure in front of goal proved costly.
Hyde gradually grew into the game and began to threaten, capitalising on New Mills’ wastefulness. Two well-taken goals before the break saw the visitors turn the game around and head into half-time with a 2–1 lead.
The second half was largely one-way traffic, with New Mills dominating possession and piling on the pressure. Hyde remained dangerous on the counter, but the Millers controlled the tempo and kept pushing for an equaliser.
Their persistence finally paid off in the dying moments. In the final minute, New Mills were awarded a penalty, and Will Linley stepped up to fire home confidently and level the scores.
There was still time for one last chance—The Millers nearly snatched all three points, but the Hyde keeper produced a fine save, and a defender bravely blocked the follow-up to deny a dramatic winner.
A frustrating afternoon in some respects, but a spirited second-half performance and a deserved point in the end.