A late fightback spared Premier Division leaders Dandy Town’s blushes against jinx team Southampton Rangers at Southampton Oval yesterday.

Three goals in the final nine minutes from substitute Drewonde Bascome, Jason Symonds and Angelo Simmons enabled the visiting side to salvage a draw against Rangers who squandered a 3-0 lead after a brace from Akale Bean and a Kwonde Lathan own goal.

Jomar Wilkinson, the Town coach, praised his charges for their never-say-die approach.

“Championship character, that’s what we showed today,” Wilkinson said. “The game wasn’t going our way but we never gave up and persevered.”

Wilkinson admitted he doubted whether his players could salvage something from the match after falling behind 3-0 in the 70th minute.

“I personally thought the hole was too big for us to get out of,” he said. “But the boys just kept on going and they believe in what we are trying to achieve this year.”

Controversy flared in the 90th minute after Jason Symonds, the Town midfielder, headed home at the back post to make it 3-2. Jason Smith, the Rangers goalkeeper, was sent off after receiving a second booking for using foul and abusive language towards the referee.

Keith Jennings, the Rangers coach, was clearly unhappy with the officiating and after the final whistle he let match officials know exactly how he felt.

Town’s late comeback enabled them to remain top of the table by a point over nearest rivals Robin Hood who inflicted a first loss of the season on Devonshire Colts after prevailing 2-1 at Police Field.

Hood were reduced to ten men in the 22nd minute when midfielder Nathan Peskett was sent off for violent conduct.

“The guys worked hard today and it was important we bounced back from our defeat in the Dudley Eve [Trophy final],” Lightbourne said.

North Village beat Boulevard 3-1 at Bernard Park for their second win of the season.

Richard Todd, the Village coach, said: “The three points build confidence and the confidence and momentum will start to carry.”

Hamilton Parish held PHC Zebras to a goalless draw at Wellington Oval.

Devonshire Cougars host Somerset Trojans at Devonshire Recreation Club tonight at 9pm.

A First Division match between home side Wolves and Ireland Island Rangers will start at 7pm.