RADCLIFFE remain unbeaten in 2025 but still in the National League North relegation places after drawing at bottom-of-the-table Needham Market, writes Kieran Wilson.

After a goalless first half, Luke Ingram gave the hosts the lead three minutes after the restart but Tom Walker levelled for Boro 10 minutes later to earn a share of the spoils

Two changes were made to the starting line-up that exited the Isuzu FA Trophy against Woking with Olly Thornley and Walker both recalled.

Needham Market came out of the traps with a quick intent as they dominated possession in the opening exchanges, but Boro keeper Mateusz Hewelt was rarely tested.

Radcliffe’s first effort on goal was created by Thornley following a positive phase of play down the right-hand side, the defender clipped an inviting ball into the box but Matt Sargent couldn’t guide his header on target after 18 minutes.

Thornley was then forced off with an injury with Luca Navarro entering the fray in a change of shape for the Boro, making his 12th appearance of the season in the process.

Moments later, the best chance of the half for either side went begging for the hosts. Adam Mills’ cross looked like a simple one for the Boro defence to deal with but a miscommunication at the back meant the ball bounced right the way through, hitting the inside of the post and Smith was fortunately on hand to clear away from the goal line.

Three minutes after the restart, Needham Market took the lead after a flying start to the half once again. A cross from the right wing found Ingram in acres of space at the far post and his first-time volley found the bottom corner via a deflection.

Radcliffe didn’t feel sorry for themselves however and parity was restored on the 57-minute mark. Luca Navarro’s floated cross was dealt with by Josh Blunkell inside his own six-yard area and the ball fell into the path of Walker who had the simplest of tap-ins.

Just after Tunde Owolabi was introduced to the field, Radcliffe had a great chance to take the lead but Brad Roscoe failed to get his header on target after rising highest to meet a cross from Walker.

A real lack of chances for both teams followed with a large spell of possession alternating across the pitch, but it was Needham Market who had the best opportunity of snatching all three points in the closing stages only to be denied by a brilliant save from Hewelt.

Tevan Allen delivered a teasing cross from a free kick but Dan Morphew close range header was superbly clawed away by Hewelt before Danny Greenfield thumped the loose to safety.

Despite five minutes of added on time, neither side failed to create another chance and both had to settle for the point.