The Hatters Under-18s were held to a dramatic draw at Plymouth Argyle on Saturday morning.

After a goalless first half, the Town took the lead 10 minutes into the second period when Dylan Stitt converted his third penalty of the season after Isaiah Harvey was fouled after an excellent run forward from Christian Chigozie.

The lead lasted just four minutes when Argyle levelled in controversial circumstances. A ball played into the Town box from a set play saw the Argyle captain seemingly handle the ball into the net which the linesman flagged for immediately. However, after a long consultation, the referee gave the goal.

Despite the frustration, the Hatters rallied and in the final minute they led once more. Jamie Odegah won a free-kick in the corner and Benny Benagr delivered an excellent delivery that was met by substitute Harry Fox to head home at the front post for his first goal of the season.

Unfortunately for the Hatters, straight from the kick-off, a defensive mix-up led to a Plymouth equaliser and the points were shared.

Under-18s Boss Joe Deeney said: “Overall I’m pleased with the lads. I’m especially happy with how disappointed they are with the draw which shows a real desire to win.

“We created some really good chances and just need to find composure at the big moments. Togetherness was evident throughout. I said to the players at the end it feels like a loss for some of them having been so close to victory.

“It’s a mistake and that’s all it is. I can accept technical mistakes – they are part of development. No individual sets out to make an error and it’s all part of the learning curve. But I’m proud of our effort levels, tenacity and energy levels as always.”

Town: Thomas, Harvey, Benagr, Chigozie, Emery, Sampson (sub Shepherd 76), Ioannides (sub Fox 64), Stitt, Hincapie-Alfonso, Asamoah (sub Odegah 64), Xavier Jones.

Subs not used: Roberts-Edema, Giddens.