Todd save 10-man Reds

ACCRINGTON STANLEY 1 STEVENAGE BOROUGH 1

ANDY Todd was the Stanley hero as he scored an equaliser 11 minutes from time to extend Accrington's unbeaten run to 20 league games.

The 10-man Reds looked down and out after they had conceded a goal on two minutes and then had Leam Richardson sent off for the second time in three games for a two-footed challenge on Dannie Bulman just after the break.

But Todd rifled the ball home to continue Stanley's record of scoring in every league game this season. One of their records did go however - they conceded a goal in the first 15 minutes for the first time this season.

Keeper Rob Elliot's wayward clearance fell to Jon Nurse on the wing and he played a ball in which Darryn Stamp forced home with only 90 seconds on the clock.

Goalie Elliot protested Stamp had handled it over but all he got was a yellow card for his troubles. Stanley struggled up front while Phil Edwards cleared an effort off the line as Boro looked to capitalise.

The home sides only effort of the first half was a Rommy Boco volley which stung Alan Julian's hands. Then Richardson went in for a high challenge with Bulman and a brawl ensured which ended with Bulman being carried off - and the left back sent off.

But the Reds are dangerous as an attacking force - and Paul Mullin flicked a ball down and Todd finished superbly. Stanley manager John Coleman felt the opening goal shouldn't have stood.

"It was a freak goal. The lads are adamant he handled it and punched it in. But it is one of those things and you have to get on with it. I am also disappointed with the sending off although it wasn't the best of challenges and I cant really condone that. But we worked hard and had one or two chances straight after half-time and I think if they go in you go on and win the game comfortably.

"But we are always a threat and Todd's goal was  outstanding - it was like it was fired from a gun."