WALSALL, England (Interstat) — Walsall and Gillingham opened their League Two seasons with a 2-2 draw Friday at Pallet-Track Bescot Stadium. The result defied pregame projections that heavily favored the home side.

Gillingham’s Aaron Loupalo-Bi opened the scoring in the 21st minute. Walsall substitute Ronan Hale equalized just after halftime. The visitors regained the lead through Sebastian Houlden in the 63rd, but Walsall responded instantly, with Daniel Kanu leveling three minutes later. Both late goals were assisted by substitutes.

The frantic second-half sequence secured a point for each club. Gillingham’s Bradley Dack and Walsall’s Sam Gale received late yellow cards. The draw left both teams with identical records to start the campaign.