PICKERING Town missed a chance to go third in the Toolstation Northern Counties East League Premier Division.

George Blissett’s ninth-minute goal cancelled out an early opener from Steven McDonnell for visitors Maltby Main, and then Lewis Taylor made it 2-2 from the penalty spot for the Pikes in the 76th minute, a minute after Steven Hopewell had put Main ahead.

However, Joshua Nodder then hit the winner for Maltby in the 84th minute.

Even a draw would have been enough for Pickering to go above Pontefract Collieries, who were in Buildbase FA Vase action today, but now the Pikes are level with Maltby, although Pickering do have two games in hand.

Reviving Harrogate Railway Athletic won 4-2 at Athersley Recreation, courtesy of late goals from Jamie Bairstow and Fraser Lancaster.

In Division One, sixth-placed Selby Town’s match at Retford United was postponed because of a waterlogged pitch, meaning that Town haven’t played since December 13.

Meanwhile, leaders Knaresborough Town triumphed 5-0 at home to Grimsby Borough, with Brad Walker (2), Dan Thirkell (2) and Robert Youhell on target.

In Vanarama National League North, second-placed Harrogate Town won 1-0 at fellow play-off contenders Chorley to cut Salford City’s lead to two points.

Jordan Thewlis’ 81st-minute goal was the clincher, with the winger beating his marker before hitting a shot over the head of impressive Chorley keeper Matt Unwin into the far corner.

Joe Leesley had the chance to make it two in the closing stages after being brought down from behind inside the area after a mazy run, only to see his spot-kick saved by Unwin.

Scarborough Athletic are only behind South Shields in Evo-Stik League Division One North after a 3-1 victory at Droylsden, thanks to late goals by Michael Coulson and James Walshaw (2).