A CROWD of over 200 enjoyed a memorable Boxing Day derby at Holt House, which either team could have won by the final whistle.

Colne put the Nelson defence under pressure early on and it was no surprise when they took the lead after 14 minutes with George Craddock scoring from close range.

Despite having the upper hand, Colne failed to build on their lead and were punished on the half hour when Carl Howarth mesmerised the home defence before shooting low into the net for the equaliser.

Two minutes later Nelson took the lead when Paul Sconce, having been obstructed on a dangerous breakaway, then got on the end of the free kick to head past a helpless Ross Baxter in the Colne goal.

The Blues pushed home their advantage at the start of the second half when Steve Pickup's cross was fumbled by Baxter and Andy Haworth drove home the loose ball at the far post to put Nelson 3-1 ahead.

Colne were given fresh hope with a dubious penalty when Paul Barrett went down under challenge by Ian Lang after 52 minutes and Craddock converted from the spot for his second goal.

Nelson then spurned a series of chances to make the game safe with Carl Howarth coming close on several occasions before the Reds snatched an equaliser after 75 minutes.

George Craddock took full advantage when a free kick was not cleared from the Nelson goalmouth and scored from close range to complete his hat trick and level the scores at 3-3.

Nelson tried hard to restore their lead but the nearest they came was a shot by Paul Sconce which hit the crossbar, having beaten Ross Baxter in goal.

And Colne fought valiantly to the end to ensure a share of the spoils which their never-say-die attitude deserved.

In their next game Nelson are away to Blackpool Mechanics ion Saturday, kicl off 3pm.