PORTHMADOG extended their unbeaten start to the Huws Gray Alliance season with a creditable 1-1 draw at Flint Town United.

The title hopefuls shared the spoils with a strong United side after an entertaining affair, and Port moved up to second spot in the early standings ahead of another huge test of their credentials at home to Rhyl on Saturday (2.30pm).

Things did not begin well for the visitors and they fell behind after just six minutes when a Jack Lewis long throw was adjudged to have hit a Port player before somehow finding its way past goalkeeper Paul Pritchard.

The stopper had to be at his best to deny Richie Foulkes a second soon after, with Joe Chaplin spurning a good chance at the other end when he blazed his effort over the bar.

Craig Papirnyk’s men started to get a foothold in the game towards the end of the first period and they managed to level matters on 41 minutes courtesy of a sensational volley from Sion Edwards, who met a Chaplin delivery perfectly at the edge of the area.

The Silkmen were dealt a blow at the break when keeper Josh Hart was forced off with a significant injury which resulted in Andy Brown going between the sticks, which saw Niall McGuinness’ side completely change their game plan and look to protect their point at all costs.

Port did go close when Gruff John’s powerful strike hit the post on 58 minutes, but they were frustrated for long periods thanks to some outstanding defending from Mike Williams and Tom Kemp in the United rearguard.

Josh Banks and Warren Duckett both missed with headers in the final five minutes for the away side as they had to settle for a point.