Two home games against their title rivals presented Shaw Lane Aquaforce with a huge test of their credentials and four points from the two games reflect a pass, but without flying colours.

After beating fourth-placed Worksop Town 2-1 on Saturday, second-placed Aquaforce were twice ahead against Handsworth Parramore, who are now fifth, on Tuesday evening but were pegged back and got just one point.

"I would have taken four points from the two games," admitted manager Craig Elliott.

"They were two difficult games and the key was to not get beat. We weren't great against Handsworth and I think a draw was a pretty fair result. We could not have played them at a worse time because they are without a manager and everybody tries that little bit harder in those situations."

Jimmy Eyles put the home side ahead on 38 minutes against Handsworth after he unleashed a rocket from 25 yards that beat 'keeper Andrew Sneath. Elliott said: "It was a great strike. I was right behind it and it moved in the air and gave the 'keeper no chance."

Gareth Griffiths equalised on 50 minutes when he reacted first to a second ball dropping in the box. The introduction of Shane Kelsey, rumoured to be leaving earlier on in the week, helped Aquaforce to get back ahead at 2-1. He beat his man down the left wing and played in an inviting ball for Lee Morris to poke in. Parramore stepped up their efforts to get level and did so on 76 minutes when Sam Smith guided a looping header into Jamie Bailey's top corner.

Elliott was pleased with Kelsey's input and says he will be back in contention for a starting place. He said: "There was a disagreement with Shane but that has been all sorted out now.  He was fantastic when he came on and he is coming back from injury." Against Worksop on Saturday, the Ducks fell behind when Andre Johnson struck for the Tigers. But the hosts turned the game around through Andrew Fox and a Kelsey penalty. The Shaw Laners are unbeaten in seven matches. Tadcaster Albion remain top and are three points above Aquaforce.