Matt Wells scored for Walden on Saturday

SAFFRON Walden’s drive for promotion is still alive after the team earned a vital 3-3 draw at Ford.

The visitors will be disappointed to have let the lead slip twice, although, against skilful opponents, skipper Andy Boyd admits the result might be a valuable one in the long term.

“Ford were a very good side with some skilful players. It was a tough game and overall a point may not be a bad result,” he told the Reporter.

“We played well in the first half but were average in the second. That is an area we need to work on – putting in a performance for 70 minutes, not just in 20 or 25 minute spells. We’ve got to play better if we’re going to go up.”

Walden were the better side in the first 35 minutes. Matt Wells opened the scoring from a short corner and Ben Wells doubled the tally after rounding off a well-worked team goal.

Ford scored a goal either side of the break to get on level terms but, after Ali Cowper was sin-binned for dissent, Walden got themselves back in front through Tom Kemp following a short corner. But the hosts grabbed a late equaliser.

A point for Walden means this Saturday’s clash with second-place Felixstowe takes on more significance. Walden are nine points adrift of Stowe – the only side in the division they are yet to play – but a victory would seriously strengthen their chances of back-to-back promotions.

Boyd said: “I wouldn’t say it is must-win as there is a long way to go this season, but if we want to stay in touch with the leaders then, yes, we have to be looking for three points.

“We don’t want them to get too far ahead.”