BERWICK boss Jimmy Crease was happy to settle for a point against third-top Alloa on the artificial pitch at Recreation Park.

“It was a good battling performance,” said the Borderers manager. “We stuck to the task in hand and overall deserved a draw.

“The main problem is that we just can not stop conceding goals at the moment which is proving costly but a draw away from home is not to be sneezed at.

“We missed Ian Little who had to pull out with a back injury and Darren Gribben who was sent off in the last match was also ruled out so under the circumstances I am fairly happy with the outcome particularly when you consider the quality of the Alloa team”.

The hosts struck an early blow with Graeme Holmes netting after only seven minutes and only a great save by Jamie Barclay prevented Ben Gordon doubling the account. But the Borderers hit back and Chris McLeod headed the equaliser in l6 minutes after good build up work by Andy McLean.

As the visitors continued to apply pressure both Stuart Noble and Kevin McDonald went close to edging them in front.

Rangers had a lucky escape just before the break when Ryan McCord beat the keeper only to see his effort come back off the bar.

Alloa had the better of the second half exchanges and had chances to clinch the points but Rangers stood their ground to take a point.

ALLOA: McDowall, James Doyle, Gordon, Harding, McCullagh, Young (One 81), Innes (Masterton 53), Ryan McCord, Holmes (Ross McCord 66), Winters, Cawley. Subs (not used): Couser, Campbell.

Booked: Winters.

Goal: Holmes 7.

BERWICK RANGERS: Barclay, Notman, McLeod, Currie, Thompson, McLaren (Darren Smith 17), McLean, Greenhill (Elliot Smith 81), McDonald, Gray (Walker 86), Noble. Subs (not used): Wood, Lavery.

Booked: Greenhill.

Goal: McLeod 16.

Attendance: 442

Referee: Don Robertson.