A LATE penalty denied North Leigh victory against runaway leaders Merthyr Town, who hit back to claim a 1-1 draw at Eynsham Park.

The Evo-Stik Southern League pace-setters have lost just twice in Division 1 South & West this season, but were happier with the point.

Merthyr packed the midfield and played a lone striker as they frustrated the Millers in a dour first half.

But North Leigh came flying out of the blocks after the break and deservedly opened the scoring on 55 minutes.

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Kieran Sanders and Callum McNish combined down the right flank to carve out a glorious chance for Morgan Williams, who gave goalkeeper Tom Bradley no chance from six yards.

The home side then had opportunities to take the game away from Merthyr.

The best chance fell to Williams, who just failed to make contact as he attempted to turn in a free-kick.

Merthyr introduced the giant Ryan Prosser as a substitute and he immediately caused problems.

Kayne McLaggon fired wide after one flick-on, but the striker made amends when he was felled for a clear penalty by Brian Bowles nine minutes from time.

Prosser scored from the spot to earn a share of the spoils.

The draw moved North Leigh up a place to sixth, three points from the play-offs.