A hard fought draw between Harlow Town and Thurrock indicated just how tight it is at the top of the Ryman Division One North.

Rob Clark’s first half thunderbolt for Fleet was cancelled out by Daniel Brown’s second half penalty in a game which could have gone either way.

Harlow Town sit in sixth place in the division, six points behind Thurrock, with two games in hand over them.

On Saturday, the hosts played well against second-placed Fleet, the Ryman North’s form side, who in turn extended their unbeaten run to 11 games.

After a two week break following the recent bad weather, Tilbury went down 3-1 to Burnham Ramblers who avenged their defeat earlier in the season.

Two goals from Kyle Asante secured Aveley their first back to back wins since August with a gutsy 2-1 win away at Chatham Town.

Asante’s winner six minutes from time was just rewards for the Millers who should have been out of sight before half time. 

East Thurrock United squandered a two-goal lead at Lewes and left East Sussex with a point. Goals from David Bryant and John Easterford had Rocks 2-0 up at half time, but they were cancelled out as Charlie Penny and then Jack Dixon scored for the hosts to ensure a draw.

The draw meant Rocks remain 18th in the Ryman Premier League.

Grays Athletic's game at home to Wingate and Finchley was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch at Millfield.

For full reports, see this week's Gazette or click here