LEIGH Athletic shared the spoils after a close fought game with a competetive East Manchester.

In a tight first period no team gained control and the half ended scoreless with both teams having a goalbound effort cleared off the line.

Leigh started the second period in control and were rewarded when Wilkinson forced home a loose ball following a corner.

With East Manchester having plenty of possession without looking likely to breach a strong Leigh rearguard, it came as a surprise when, following a hopeful cross, a defensive error led to an equaliser. Back came Leigh with a stunning reply from Joe Bloxam.

Leigh looked likely to hold on for the three points before another hopeful cross was forced home by the visitors.

The reserves also drew 1-1 with East Manchester, Tony Lewis on target before Leigh conceeded a late equaliser. The third team also drew 3-3 with Tony Hitchinson firing home a quickfire hat-trick.