A St Neots revamped squad recovered from a two-goal half time deficit to earn a draw with visiting Arlesey Town in their first pre-season friendly of the new season.

Manager Cameron Mawer declared himself pleased with his sides’ performance against a strong visiting side who look to have strengthened since last season.

Several new players impressed as the manager fielded around 20 players in this initial pre-season test.

St Neots began confidently and created two early chances, the first of which rebounded from the crossbar after two minutes and the second, five minutes later was well saved by the visiting goalkeeper.

After a continuing dominant display in the first half, St Neots could not find a finish and were then hit on the break when Arlesey scored twice in the five minutes before half time.

A 30-yard chip by Tyroque crept in just under the bar after 42 minutes and two minutes later Jordan Clark finished well to double the lead.

Multiple planned half-time changes saw St Neots take some time to settle after the break but after 62 minutes they pulled back a goal when Rhys Thorpe finished clinically after being played clear.

Three minutes from time after a further spell of pressure St Neots claimed an equaliser when former Newport Pagnell striker Jim Burnside earned a draw for his new side.