THE top two sides in Salisbury and District Premier (Saturday) missed the chance to open up a sailable lead at the summit after the spoils were shared in the only league game to go ahead.

Leaders The Wanderers and second-placed Devizes Inn each settled for a point in a 1- 1 stalemate which just passed the officials’ inspection, going ahead despite the horrendous conditions. This meant neither side could play free-flowing football.

The first chance didn’t show until the 25th minute.

Adam Jones was put through by Alex Cook, only to be denied by the Devizes Inn custodian.

However, moments later a bright moment lit up a dreary afternoon when Nick Newman found space 30 yards out and unleashed an unstoppable effort which flew into the roof of the net.

Despite the cushion at half time, the conditions worsened in the second half and both teams reverted to long ball tactics without much being created.

Devizes Inn did have the ball in the net but it was correctly ruled out of for offside.

But the next time they got the ball over the line the goal stood. The leveller arrived after a long ball was uncleared and was scrambled into the unguarded net.

There was still time for another twist and it looked like it was heading in The Wanderers’ footsteps when gallivanting full back Aaron Doyle found himself 10 yards out, but his diving header was superbly tipped over the woodwork.

The Wanderers manager Liam McConnell said: “Looking back, we certainly had the chances to wrap the game up. Yet, they came out fighting in the second half and perhaps deservedly got a point for their efforts.

“You can't play good football in those conditions but the lads did ever so well to defend against such a physical presence, to be so close to holding out for a clean sheet was disappointing but you can't fault the players’ efforts.”