Ledbury Town did neighbours Malvern Town a great favour when they battled back after conceding an early goal to force a draw against West Midlands League Premier Division title-chasers Tipton Town.

TIPTON TOWN 2, LEDBURY TOWN 2

Changing to a defensive formation and leaving lone striker Robbie Colwell up front, visiting Ledbury were rocked back in the second minute when they failed to cut out a left wing cross which left Ravi Sangha with a close range header to open the scoring.

Ledbury were forced to defend for long periods but got back on terms in the 20th minute when Colwell stuck out a leg and deflected a low cross from Nicky Welch past a surprised Tipton goalkeeper.

Tipton regained the lead just before the break when a 30 yard drive from Craig Mansell flew past Adam Penny and into the top corner.

Colwell bagged his second goal when he rose to head home a superb cross from Stuart Hall and although Tipton threw everything at Ledbury in a frantic final 15 minutes, the visitors held firm to claim a deserved point.

Fifth-placed Ledbury Town are still hoping to finish in third place and play the two teams above them in their final games.

Town entertain fourth-placed Shawbury United tomorrow (Saturday) at New Street (2.45). Shawbury are just one point ahead of Ledbury and the match will be their final game of the season.

On Tuesday evening (May 18) Ledbury visit third-placed Kington Town (7.45) and victory in both matches would probably elevate them into third spot.

MALVERN Town defeated Bromyard Town 2-0 on Tuesday to lift the Premier Division championship with former Ledbury Town player Phil Preedy scoring the opening goal in the first half.

Des Cox sealed their win in the 71st minute to lift the title and promotion to the Midland Alliance.