BASILDON United secured an admirable 1-1 draw at runaway league leaders Barking, thanks to a strike from Reece Tranter.
The Bees travelled to Barking minus several key players but they proved more than a match for the hosts in a keenly-contested match.
And manager Aaron Bloxham was pleased with a point.
“The game could have gone either way,” he said. “Both teams had chances but I am happy with a point seeing as we were missing so many players.
“It gives us a great boost heading into three cup games.”
Southend Manor showed their bounce-back ability as they responded to a recent defeat by Barkingside in the best possible manner.
Stuart Marshall’s team were 2-0 winners against the Side, and were worthy victors in the end.
A goal from Dan Okah had put Manor ahead and it looked for a long time as though that would be the goal that decided the contest.
But, deep into second-half stoppage time, Jake Brocklebank netted a second to keep Southend third in the table.
Hullbridge Sports beat Eton Manor 3-0 at Lower Road.
Manor had hit the post in the early exchanges but it was the player/ manager that got the first goal. Rob Hodgson scored after good work from Matt Brinklow.
Charlie Little made it 2-0 before the break, with Jimmy Cox adding a third 10 minutes from time.
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