AVELEY were pegged back lack on as Terry Spillane’s search for a first Aveley win went on against high-flying Phoenix Sports on Monday night.

It looked as though the Millers were on course to get the points when Tommy Spillane, the manager’s son, headed home after half-time but a late strike following what looked like a clash of heads brought parity and a share of the spoils.

Both sides had half chances in a first-half that rarely looked as though it would spark into life.

Billy Coyne had a shot that fizzed past the post before Spillane headed the hosts ahead early in the second period.

Home goalkeeper Lamar Johnson was forced into making several alert saves, while Phoenix also saw a header flash inches wide of the post.

Appeals for an away penalty were turned down after suspicions of handball, but then the moment of consternation.

George Woodward was involved in a clash of heads but the game wasn’t stopped and Alistair Gordon pounced to level.

But Aveley held on for a point.