TWO draws from two tough encounters saw the Blues maintain third place in the Ryman League table and kept them in touch with the leading pair.

In Saturday's encounter with Tonbridge Angels the Town defence endured a torrid 20-minute spell in which they conceded three goals but the whole side pulled together to stage a remarkable comeback and a creditable draw.

Greg Crane started the ball rolling with a wonder goal direct from a free kick some 50 yards out, catching the keeper unawares. As the Blues dominated the second period their pressure finally paid off with goals from Dale Cockrill and Michael Frew, his first for the club, in the final 10 minutes.

Tuesday evening's visit of Billericay saw the visitors dominate the first period but the Blues responded with an improved second half showing. Dale Cockrill put the Town ahead but late Billericay pressure saw them net a last minute equaliser.

The hastily arranged Championship Manager Fourth Round tie against Heybridge Swifts was due to be played at the Crown Meadow yesterday (Thursday). If the Blues were successful they have been favoured with another home draw in the quarter finals against Dulwich Hamlet.

Tomorrow brings more Ryman League football to Crown Meadow with Hastings United providing the opposition, kick off 3pm. Tuesday then sees the Blues on their travels again with a visit to Tooting and Mitcham.

The Reserves maintained their 100pc record with victories at home to Whitton United Reserves (6-0) and away to Gorleston Reserves (1-0). Against Whitton United Louis Cutajar netted a hat trick with Joe Clark, Shane Smith and Chris Bond netting the others. Against Gorleston Stewart Roach netted the only goal of the game.

Tomorrow the Reserves face a top of the table clash with current leaders Diss Town Reserves.

The Youth team were without a fixture this week and next Thursday take on Harford Tornadoes at Plantation Park.

The U16s were defeated 1-3 by Swindell Juniors with Connor Ruffy netting their only goal. This Sunday they face the return fixture against Swindell.

The U15s were without a fixture last week and on Sunday face Gorleston in the League Cup semi final in a rare outing at Crown Meadow, kick off 2pm.

Terry Lynes