Northampton miss out on win over Stockport County after late equaliser

Northampton Town played out a 1-1 draw with Stockport County after a late equaliser from their play-off chasing guests.

Terry Taylor’s goal had put the Cobblers in front in the first half, but a goal by substitute Benony Andresson rescued a point for the visitors in the final 12 minutes.

A point was a second draw in a row for Northampton, who had been held to a stalemate by Exeter late on in their last outing.

Nevertheless, a point was enough for Northampton to build up a five point gap to the relegation zone, with Kevin Nolan’s side sat 18th in the table.

In-form Stockport represented a tricky test for the Cobblers, with the visitors sitting in the top 4 at kick-off in their pursuit of back-to-back promotions.

The hosts would come close with a chance when Tarique Fosu headed over at a corner when well placed.

Just over half an hour into the clash, Northampton would find a way to take the lead. A free-kick was awarded for a foul on Ben Perry, much to Stockport’s irritation, and Taylor’s deflected free-kick caught out Corey Addai to put the home side’s in front.

Perry would later fire over when well placed, before Stockport’s Sam Cosgrove would see an equaliser in first half stoppage time disallowed for a foul on Sam Hoskins.

Stockport made a quadruple change to try and reboot their cause just before the hour mark, but they were struggling to make headway and nearly fell 2-0 down when Dara Costelloe fired just wide.

A 79th minute goal would then bring the visitors back on level term. Ryan Rydel picked out Andresson, who was able to head beyond Lee Burge and bring Stockport back on level terms.

Stockport had further chances to take the lead for the first time, with Burge making fine stops to thwart Oliver Norwood and Lewis Bate in the final stages, but Northampton were able to hold out and take a share of the points.

The Cobblers will be seeking to build on back-to-back draws in a tricky contest at home to League One leaders Birmingham City at the weekend.