LITTLE Oakley claimed a 1-1 draw at a rain-sodden Takeley in the Essex Senior League on Tuesday night, writes LARRY DOBKIN.

Glenn O’Hanlon's long-range effort flew wide for the hosts early on while at the other end, Liam Riley's bullet shot went wide, with keeper Jack Bull stranded.

Dan Rowe went close with a short run and shot from distance and the same player was unable to get his shot on target, after Bull had pushed Harry Mann's shot into his path.

Takeley hit back though and Hodje Joaquin showed instant control while passing to the incoming Kieron Southgate, who coolly side-footed the ball wide.

Oakley goalkeeper Bill Lawlor made a flying save from a half volley before Oakley took a 27th-minute lead.

Mann went down in the area following a free-kick and converted the resultant penalty.

The weather was now getting progressively worse and while both teams were trying to play free flowing football, the ball was either getting stuck or zipping out of the slippery surface.

Takeley had a cluster of half chances before the break but failed to register a meaningful shot on goal, as the Acorns went in at the break ahead.

With conditions deteriorating, Takeley looked the better side, after half-time.

Lawlor saved Bobby Badham's powerful shot before Oakley were reduced to ten men when Oli Hart was sent off, after receiving a second yellow card.

Hart slid into a tackle where the referee gave a foul and booked the Oakley player, which seemed very harsh considering the conditions.

Takeley were then awarded a spot-kick when the ball struck Nobbs on the arm which appeared to be tight to his side and while he was only a yard from his opponent.

The penalty was converted by Varsoi, to level for the hosts.

Takeley were now going for the win and with time almost up, a cross into the six-yard box picked out O’Hanlon in space.

He produced a strong header but fortunately for Oakley, it went straight at Lawlor who held onto a wet greasy ball as the spoils were shared.

Oakley player of the match was Bill Lawlor, who showed great handling in difficult conditions.