The two-all draw ensures Saints remain in the top five and now have a one competition point lead on the Camden Haven Redbacks, who suffered a 5-1 defeat to competition leaders Port United.

Saints stand-in coach Troy Ward claims the Saints were dominant at stages throughout the match but lapses in concentration led to the Wildcats capitalising.

"It was a pretty difficult game but I think we were on top for most of the game. We controlled the ball well and pushed forward," Ward told the Argus.

"But they caught us out a couple of times and made the most of their opportunities."

While Ward believes his side did enough to secure the victory, he was content with the tie.

"I was happy with the draw when you consider we were on the road and trailed twice in the game," Ward said.

"We will take the point and remain three points ahead of them on the ladder."

Taree opened the scoring inside the first 25 minutes as a through ball resulted in a Wildcats player slotting the ball passed Saints' goalkeeper in a one-on-one situation.

Saints managed to respond in the lead up to half-time, after skillful build up play led to Troy Ward receiving the ball in-behind the Wildcats' defence and he levelled the scores.

Despite the Saints remaining on the front foot, the Wildcats were able to regain their lead from a set piece.

The Wildcats had a corner and after a scramble in the box, the ball fell to a player on the edge of the 18-yard-box who fired the ball into the back of the net.

Saints kept their heads high and continued to push for an equaliser for the remainder of the contest and were rewarded five minutes from full-time.

Nick Wright, who was playing striker at the time, received the ball up front and beat two defenders before he curled the ball into the back of the net.

"It was a great bit of skill and a good solo goal," Ward said.

Saints' attention now turns to facing off with their namesake Port Saints on home soil this Saturday.

The two sides played out a two-all draw when they met earlier this season but Port, who finished second last in 2018, have had a resurgent season as they now sit in second position with only one loss to their name.

However, Ward isn't phased and is looking forward to the contest.

"We are looking forward to the game, I am quietly confident we will be able to get the job done," he said.

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