The Pitmen headed to Redditch United in the Southern Premier Central League looking to avenge the opening day 1-0 defeat at Keys Park. Hednesford were without the in form Stanley Anaenonam, who had joined Stourbridge following a seven day approach, however the squad was boosted by the arrival of defender Mark Derricott from Hereford FC and forward Niah Payne from Spennymoor. The Reds started the day in ninth place, with the Pitmen still bottom of the table.
A dour battle of a first half saw little in the way of goalmouth action with the home side enjoying greater possession but the visitors posing more of a threat. In the 24th minute a speculative low drive from James McQuilkin sneaked underneath Kieran Boucher to give Hednesford Town the lead. A goal kick from Boucher was flicked on by Bernard Mensah to Ryan Boothe, Derricott on his debut made an excellent block to preserve the Pitmen’s lead going into the break.
HT 1-0
In the second half the Pitmen maintained possession well , winning a series of corners, however they were unable to stretch their lead which would prove costly late on. Lewis Hudson headed home an equaliser for Redditch in the 87th minute from a corner. Luke Rowe went close to a winner for the Pitmen with a well struck freekick before Leroy Lita had a close range header saved by Boucher. The draw lifted the Pitmen off the bottom of the table, however this did not disguise the disappointment of not taking all three points after coming so close to seeing out the win.
Redditch United; Boucher, Osadchyi, Hudson, Sheaf, Culkin, Wollacott, Flanagan (Smith 75), Bunn, Boothe (King 68), Gregson, Mensah. Subs not used; Ward, Rowbottom, Clews
Hednesford Town; Brooks, Ison, Livingstone, Rowe, Derricott, Redfern, McQuilkin, Parker, Lita, Bennett, Hewlett (Agustein 85). Subs not used Clayton, Hartley, Akinwe
