Berkhamsted's Spartan South Midlands Premier Division title challenge was dented as they were held to a 1-1 draw at home to St Margaretsbury on Saturday.

Berko controlled possession throughout the contest but were unable to find the winning goal.

The visitors went ahead in the 24th minute as a cross from the left was met by defender Steve Barker and his shot found the net.

It was a lead that lasted just a minute. Berko immediately responded as James Towell found space in the penalty area and confidently fired past goalkeeper Lee Robinson.

In the second period, Frankie Jowle and Ashley Morrissey were introduced as the hosts searched for a second goal.

Berkhamsted forced several corners but were unable to truly test Robinson. Leading scorer Connor Calcutt was snuffed out by the visiting back line while Josh Chamberlain and Towell were also left frustrated.

Berko remain second in the table with a game in hand on leaders Ampthill Town, however, they are now four points behind top spot.

On Wednesday evening, Berkhamsted got off to a winning start in the Suburban Shield as they overcome Northwood Reserves 4-2 in Group D.

Northwood were one goal in front at the interval but the half-time introduction of Jordan Aikman changed the game.

He equalised early in the second period before Ashley Morrisey put Berko in front with a fine shot. Northwood soon levelled and Tom Calverley had to produce some good saves to keep the game level.

Kieron Turner and Jordon Aikman then struck to give the young Berkhamsted side victory.