Wakering restored pride after their 5-0 midweek thrashing at lowly Essex rivals East Thurrock United with a much-improved display.

But neither side could break the deadlock in this entertaining Ryman Division One North affair at Burroughs Park.

Eye on the ball - Great Wakering Rovers midfielder Mark Hampshire beats a Thame opponent to the ball at Burroughs Park Picture: STEVE O'CONNELL

Both teams had their best opportunities of breaking the stalemate late on.

After 77 minutes, the visiting side's Alex Stewart hit a free-kick from the edge of the area against a post.

Then, with two minutes remaining, excellent work from Dan Trenkel set-up substitute Gary Ewers from 10 yards, but his effort across the face of the goal ended up going wide.

There was a 10-minute second-half stoppage to the action when an assistant referee tripped over Wakering substitute Paul Wheeler, warming-up on the line, and suffered a badly-twisted ankle.

Long-standing Rovers' supporter George Reeves, a qualified official, took over running the line. Dan Trenkel went close for Wakering early on and Jon Gardner did likewise for the visitors.

Mark West had two opportunities for Thame, but saw the first cleared off the line by Neville Hickton and the second turned round a post by goalkeeper Dave Hudson.

Published Monday, January 27, 2003

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