Keegan catches the eye
PAUL McNally praised the impact of substitute Louis Keegan as Skelmersdale United earned the first point of his reign in a 1-1 draw with Kidsgrove Athletic on Saturday.
McNally, who replaced the axed Dave Powell last month, was forced into fielding three debutants for the clash after an injury crisis ruled out goalkeeper Terry Smith and defenders Charlie Duke and Dimi Christou.
Lee Boden made his first appearance for the club in goal while Stephen Ferrigan and John Keatley were handed bows in the heart of the defence.
A stunning opener from Athletic’s Peter Williams handed the visitors the lead ten minutes before half-time before Adam Freeland doubled the advantage shortly after the break.
Substitute Keegan offered hope for United on the hour-mark, however, before Sean Yeldrem equalised from the penalty spot just nine minutes later.
“It was a great performance from the lads from the very first whistle,” McNally said after the game.
“We were very unlucky to be 2-0 down but what a comeback. A couple of lads came on changed the game. It was fantastic.
“I brought Louis Keegan on at right-back, moved Alex Griffiths into the middle of the park and went two up top.
“It was a 4-4-2 and we went at them and caused them trouble I think a point was deserved in the end.”
Substitute Keegan expressed frustration about losing his starting spot following the draw but his new boss moved to clarify the tactical thinking behind the switch.
“I explained to Louis that it was harsh on him getting left out because he hadn’t really done anything wrong,” the former Litherland REMYCA boss added.
McNally will be aiming to land his first victory this weekend as Skelmersdale travel to high-flying Colne.
Colne are fourth in the Evo-Stik West and unbeaten in three games.