LITTLE Oakley conceded a last-minute goal to lose 2-1 at home to high-flying Saffron Walden, in the Essex Senior League.

Oakley shaded the first ten minutes without either team managing to get a shot on target.

Town fired a free-kick over the bar while at the other end, before the Acorns took the lead.

James moved the ball to the wing where a whipped cross into the Town box saw the keeper come out for the ball.

However, a switched-on Rowe got to the ball first and powered the ball past the keeper to give Oakley the lead.

The Acorns were playing well and continued to push forward.

Mann’s header from Brothers' cross went marginally wide but while the skill factor from both teams was high and commitment undeniable, no further chances were afforded to either team.

The second half started much the same as the first, with much of the play being in midfield and no team getting the opportunity to put a foot on the ball and craft clearcut chances.

But the visitors equalised thanks to a fantastic half-volley which nestled in the top corner of the net.

With Oakley dominating long spells of play in the first half, it was now Town's turn to get on top.

The next 15 minutes saw the visitors get control of midfield and mount attack after attack.

The Oakley defence worked tirelessly to prevent Town getting a clear-cut chance but in the 89th minute, a well-worked move by Town saw a cross deflected off for a corner.

The set-piece landed on the edge of the six-yard box where the Town centre-forward rose above the Oakley defence, powering the ball towards the goal.

Joyce managed to get hands on the ball but was only able to palm it into the top of the net.

Oakley had barely any time remaining to get back into the game, as the visitors claimed a hard-fought win.

Acorns man of the match was Harry Mann, one of the hardest-working players throughout the season.