BASILDON United drew their first match of the season as they shared eight goals in a thriller against Burnham Ramblers.

The Bees drew 4-4 at Burnham, just days after manager Craig Gillam had dramatically quit and then returned as boss, with Brad Warner netting a brace to ensure the points were shared.

The Bees were trailing 2-1 at half-time, having been two goals down after half-an-hour.

Dan Howett got them back in the game deep into first-half injury-time, although Burnham did restore their two–goal advantage after the break.

But Warner headed home to make it 3-2 before they levelled for the first time.

Luca Frankis' header was prodded over the line by Mike Finneran, and Gillam's men went on to take the lead.

Ben Sartain was brought down in the penalty area and Warner made sure from 12 yards.

However, Ramblers equalised late on although Russell Harley did his best to preserve his side's advantage.

A penalty was given and, although Harley saved the first effort, the follow-up was tapped home.

Southend Manor were beaten 3-1 by Tower Hamlets, as a poor first-half showing cost them a share of the spoils.

The Londoners went 3-0 up and by the time Rhys Fatt got Manor’s goal, it was too late.

And manager Stuart Marshall said he was disappointed with the first 45 minutes.

“We didn’t start the match at all well,” he said. “We were 3-0 down and deservedly so but I made three changes at half-time and things changed.

“In the end I felt we could have easily taken something from the game which shows how much we improved.

“But we will go again next time.”

Bowers & Pitsea didn’t play this weekend, and Hullbridge Sports’ game with Wadham Lodge was postponed because of a waterlogged pitch.

Sports are back in action tonight at Tower Hamlets.