NEWARK, N.J. --- Three Points were on the line and the chance to take the overall lead in the Mid-Atlantic Division, but neither Reading or the Ironbound Express could capitalize on the opportunity resulting in a 2-2 tie on Wednesday evening at Lubetkin Field on the Campus of NJIT.

Neither team scored in the first half, but the Express took a one shot edge, 6-5, over the visiting team after 45 minutes. The Express nearly scored in the first half, as Jerrod Laventure and Josh Trott missed the goal by near inches.

Reading scored midway into the second half as Corey Hertzog found Jon Ports to give the United a 1-0 lead. Nearly two minutes later, the Express were granted a penalty kick and were successful as Laventure’s boot went low to the left side of the cage to tie the contest at one in the 67th minute.

The Ironbound took a lead in the 77th minute off a set piece on a corner kick, as Chris Karcz headed a rebounder off his initial shot to take a 2-1 lead. Reading make a substitution after allowing the goal, s move that worked to perfection as reserve forward Eric Detzel found Hertzog with five minutes remaining in regulation.

The Express finished with 11 shots with six finding its way to the target. Reading netminder Jeremy Vuolo made four saves to keep his team in the contest. Ironbound goalie Ryan Meara made five saves, including three quality saves in the second half.

The Express will have a short window to prepare for this weekend’s Virginia trip, as they will meet Hampton Roads on Saturday evening and then Northern Virginia Sunday morning