Wellng United look destined for an uphill struggle in this season's Conference League judged on Saturday's tough 1-1 draw with lowly Barrow. at Park View Road.

United unveiled new signing Paul Harford, son of Ray, in the number nine shirt, but it was the visitors who belied their lowly position by dominating a goal-less first half.

Mutch, the former Wolves striker, had already squandered two chances before his cross shaved the United bar.

Despite Barrow's superiority possesion-wise they were unable to break the deadlock, thanks mainly to fine saves by United keeper Glen Knight, back in the side following injury.

Mutch missed another chance three minutes after the interval but Welling were unlucky when Mark Cooper's header from a Dolby cross was cleared off the line.

Barrow's persistence finally paid off 15 minutes from time after Dolby made a poor clearance which was crossed back in to O'Keeffe, who slammed home after Knight had blocked one effort.

But the Wings equalised tenminutes from time when Dolby atoned for his earlier mistake in the best possible style -- smashing home a daisy-cutter from 25 yards for a goal fit to grace a level much higher than this.

Tonight United's Under 18 team entertains Dover at Park View Road in the final FA Youth Cup qualifier.

The first team play Doc Martens Premier League side Weymouth in the FA Cup 3rd qualifying round on Saturday, also at Park View Road, kick-off 3pm. Graham Bunce

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000.Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.