New-look Clacton Town came within ten seconds of claiming the scalp of Ryman League Romford, but had to settle for a 1-1 draw.

The south Essex outfit netted an injury-time equaliser through Whinney to deny the Seasiders who had led thanks to a fine Glen Hepburn goal on 59 minutes.

But perhaps the most significant feature was a knee injury to Clacton keeper Jon Cardy who is now facing a fight to be fit in time for the start of the Jewson League season.

Manager Steve Dowman said: "Some people say the result is not important but I don't. Two wins would have put us in the winning habit.

"After we scored we sat back too much, we gave them the initiative."

On a positive note, Dowman added: "We had several players missing, particularly in the first half, but we still matched a team two or three divisions above us."

A youthful Harwich side were held to a 1-1 draw at home by Suffolk and Ipswich Leaguers Walsham le Willows.

James Helyard put the Shrimpers ahead but the visitors levelled ten minutes from time.

Boss Phil Boyland said: "It's the first time I've ever seen a lot of these players play. I'm still looking at players in different positions, but it's been encouraging so far."

Sorry Maldon suffered a heavy defeat at the hands of Kent League favourites Deal Town, going down 5-0.

The Jewson League side missed good chances early on, Tommy Noble and Lee Sonnex the culprits.

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