SPARTAK went into Saturday's match at Archdale looking for three points to help avoid being pulled into the relegation battle below them.

The fixture was reversed at the last minute, due to Spartak's ground being placed out of bounds due to the foot and mouth crisis -- yet another problem in what has been the most turbulent season in its history.

Spartak had the best of the early play, but the difficult playing conditions were causing havoc and very few chances were created by either side.

Suddenly, Archdale broke and with a fine display of counter attacking football, scored. Spartak sprang back and equalised two minutes later.

A floated ball in the box aimed at Chris Pinfield was handled and captain Pinfield calmly stroked the ball into the back of the net.

More drama followed a minute later when Archdale were awarded a penalty for an innocuous looking challenge by Hanif.

John Slade, however, pulled off a marvellous save, turning the powerfully hit spot kick onto the bar before Pinfield pulled the ball to safety. It was 1-1 at half time, and that looked like being the result.

Despite Spartak's early possession in the second half they were unable to create any real chances and Archdale slowly got into the game. Then, with just two minutes to go, Archdale created the only real chance of the half, brutally despatched into the corner of the net.

Manager Kevin Blaber will have been heartened by the performance of some of the team. This game will have helped him place those positions which need strengthening before this month's transfer deadline.