DEBUTANT Ed Smith scored a brace as fellow high-fliers Ascot United and Highworth Town drew 2-2 at the Elms in the Hellenic League Premier Division on Saturday.

After a goalless first half, Smith, a recent signing from Slough Town, twice gave Ascot the lead, only for their Wiltshire hosts to quickly peg them back.

All goals were scored within 18 minutes of the second-half restart, although Ascot were indebted to Chris Grace for saving a TJ Bohane penalty for Highworth – and arguably justice was served after the hosts appeared to be offside in the build-up.

This was a must-win match for Ascot in their pursuit of at least a top-four finish.

Fifth-placed Highworth, with five games in hand on the Yellamen and still very much in the title hunt, were on a fine run of form in the league and eager to register a league double over Ascot.

On a heavy and barely playable pitch, Dave Pitt’s 12th-minute shot was saved after Lee Boon’s pass had created the opportunity, before Bohane shot straight at Grace for Highworth at the other end.

The statistics showed a first-half blank, although Ascot created numerous chances including Smith’s shot on the turn and subsequent effort which was smothered after Pitt had turned provider.

Steven Deverall then went past two defenders and shot wide before Smith blasted over shortly before half time.

The second half was only two minutes old when Smith’s low drive put Ascot ahead after Pitt had turned provider once again.

However, the lead lasted just 10 minutes when Grace’s clearance from Alex Rodrigues’ back-pass was charged down – resulting in a 55th-minute leveller for Bohane.

A second low drive from Smith restored the visitors’ lead after 61 minutes, but Highworth were level again inside two minutes courtesy of another debutant – Levi Cox – although it appeared as if Grace had been fouled in the build-up.

Grace preserved the draw by saving Bohane’s spot-kick, but there were no further goals in front of the watching crowd of 110.

Ascot United host Longlevens in the league on Saturday (3pm), before travelling to Carterton in the Perpetua Press Floodlit Cup quarter final next Tuesday (7.45pm).