A LATE goal by Paula Doyle kept Kendal Town Ladies on course for promotion as they came from a goal behind to draw 1-1 with league leaders Preston North End Development.

The game was originally due to be played at The Pye Motors Stadium but was switched to Dallam Schools 3G facility after the surface was damaged following on from Saturday's men's first team game.

Kendal started the match brightly and dominated territory as they pressed their opponents into their own half.

The first half was played at a quick pace in what was becoming a physical and exciting match.

However the second half started poorly for Kendal as Preston scored from the edge of the penalty box.

Kendal picked themselves back up thanks to captain Sarah McCabe who demanded more from the team.

Town began to enjoy spells of possession as they created some openings, however the game went quiet for Kendal who were lucky not to go two goals down after one of the Preston players missed a sitter from four yards.

However as the game drew to a close, Faye Platt played the ball through to Kendal's tenacious striker Doyle, and after muscling her way through the Preston defence, she powered the ball home to draw them level.

Kendal player/manager Lauren Downham was delighted with the result.

She said: “This was a huge game for us and a great result, we worked so hard against a very good side. It was a very close contest and a good advert for ladies football. We will now prepare and focus on another tough game as we travel to play Stockport County on Sunday."

Kendal remain second in the league and well in the battle for promotion.