MATCH REPORT | Chester 2-2 Morecambe

Gary Roberts’ penalty secured a draw with Morecambe FC in the Blues penultimate pre-season friendly encounter this evening.

Kevin Ellison looked to create an opening for the Shrimpers. After finding space on the edge of the area and dancing beyond a number of Blues defenders, the ex-Chester forward blasted his rasping effort high into the Harry Mac.

Moments later, and the home side were gifted with a chance to break the deadlock. Jon Moran was pulled down in the area, and from the resulting spot kick, defensive partner John Pritchard saw his strike saved by Mark Halstead from 12 yards.

Jim Bentley’s side found themselves ahead minutes after Halstead’s heroics through midfielder Andrew Fleming. Ellison saw his strike deflected into the path of the Wrexham academy graduate who rolled the ball beyond Grant Shenton.

Their lead didn’t last long however. After a spell of pressure on the Shrimpers defence, Pritchard found Steve Howson in the area – and the centre half nodded the ball past Halstead to level up the encounter.

Morecambe looked to have secured the win after Howson tripped Ellison in the area. Referee Peter Gibbons pointed to the penalty spot, and Jason Oswell fired his strike into the top corner.

But, the game was not over just yet – as the Blues saw another penalty awarded to them after a handball in the box. Gary Roberts stepped up on this occasion and fired his effort beyond Halstead in some style.