Gorleston Ladies recovered from a three goal deficit to force a 3-3 draw at Sprowston.

Having suffered only two league defeats in the last two seasons the Greens were up against a side who beat them in their previous meeting.

Maria Jardim made only her second start in goal while the back four of Elisha Maher, Mary Croft, Hayley Muir and Hannah Croft knew they would be in for a tough time.

A tense affair in the first 20 minutes saw Kelly Allen and Molly Sims desperately trying to win the midfield battle. Beth Turner up top was closely marked and given little room to move while Leanne Smith, just behind, was struggling with illness.

Wingers Leanne Muffett and Mel Anderson were pushing on but with little joy. Sprowston settled into their rhythm and two quick goals saw them go in at half-time looking comfortable.

In the second half Sam Hunn, Gillie and Rosie Cook making her Gorleston debut were all introduced into the fray to try to turn the Greens’ fortunes around.

But then another long range effort gave Maria little chance and ssaw Sprowston take a commanding 3-0 lead, with Gorleston appearing to be heading for their first defeat of the season.

Sam had other however ideas and gave the Sprowston defence something different to think about with a quick fire brace, ably assisted by Gillie.

The momentum of the match had changed and now the Greens were dictating the game. Ten minutes from time and Gorleston shifted to three at the back, pushing players forward trying to nick an equaliser.

They won a corner and this was the one chance needed, with the big players going up from the back looking to get something, anything on it to push it goalwards.

Up stepped Molly who floated the ball up over and with everyone trying to get a touch the ball went straight into the far corner of the net to pull the score back to 3-3.

It was then a case of trying to win the game but the full-time whistle went with the scores still level.

It was an excellent comeback from Gorleston who are adjusting well to life in Division One. Player-otf-the-match was Sam Hunn, who gave Sprowston all manner of problems,

This Sunday sees the Greens take on Stalham at Emerald Park (2pm).