A CONTROVERSIAL late penalty by Paul Mashiter gave Dave Sharples his first point as Great Harwood Town manager on Friday night.

NWCL Division One leaders Bacup were infuriated after being pegged back in the 90th minute by the team at the opposite end of the table, when they claimed Dean Repullo won the ball fairly as he was penalised for a challenge in the area.

Dave Felgate got a hand to Mashiter's spot kick but he couldn't keep it out, and there was further frustration for home boss Brent Peters when he claimed the referee then blew for full-time instead of playing five minutes for stoppages.

But Borough really lost the initiative at the start of the second half when Phil Power was shown the red card for an off-the-ball incident.

With Bacup having to play the remainder of the game with 10 men, Harwood created some good chances but both goalkeepers produced some stunning saves.

The first half was a bit more one-sided and Borough took the lead after only five minutes when Darren Emmett scored from a direct free kick.

Although Peters was disappointed with the penalty award, he had encouraging words for his opponents following the game.

He said: "Great Harwood came and worked hard for their new manager.

"At times their over-enthusiasm got the better of them but if they continue to work like they did against us they will be playing first division football next year."

Harwood, meanwhile, are back in action tonight when the go to Atherton Collieries (7.45pm).