ROCHFORD firsts battled to a well-deserved share of the spoils against Old Southendian fourths in Division 6 South East of the East Men’s Hockey League.

The game started off quickly from both teams and Rochford had some great chances from open play with Matt Harwood-White breaking through and passing to Richard Mothersole who hit a first time reverse that went just wide.

Goalkeeper Tony Revell was then called upon to make a sliding save, with Rochford missing a golden chance not long after.

From a short corner after 15 minutes, Rhys Durban pushed out to Luke Danbrook and, while his shot was saved the rebound was slapped over the bar.

Rochford saw four further efforts saved and Danbrook scuffed his shot wide with the game goalless at half-time.

But with Rochford tiring, it was Old Southendian that got the first goal from a break away.

The away side then had more chances one-on-one but Revell saved with his legs and hands.

Rochford had their chances too, with Durban running down the line and pushing the ball in the ‘D’ but James Hendle slapped his shot wide.

And the home side had to wait until the dying throes of the encounter to break their duck.

With two minutes to go, Rochford pushed up and got a free hit outside the ‘D’ which Danbrook took, winning a short corner.

Rochford pushed all their players up into the Old Southendian half as Durban pushed out to Danbrook and his slap hit went past the goalkeeper and in off the inside of the post.

The team and spectators erupted as the final whistle went as Danbrook’s strike ensured a point.

The point keeps them 10th with their next game away to Redbridge & Ilford’s second team at 1:30pm on Saturday.

The Man of the match went to Alex Mann, who put in a very assured defensive display.