Cheshunt 1, Aveley 1

AVELEY'S final pre-season friendly on Saturday (3 August) included a bizarre goal, when the Millers allowed their rivals to score in return for not being reduced to ten men!

The National League South visitors, who kick off their campaign at Welling on Saturday (10 August)  took the lead after three minutes when a corner drifted to the far post where  Luke Allen who fired into the bottom left corner.

Isthmian Premier Cheshunt, managed by one time Grays boss Craig Edwards, equalised after 14 minutes, under strange circumstances.

After a long ball over the top from defence, Aveley goalkeeper Carey Blaedorn, who has just joined Millers on a season-long loan from Tottenham, came to collect.

However, he misjudged distances and handled the ball well outside of his box denying a clear opportunity for the Ambers to equalise. The referee didn't give what was an obvious red card as it was a pre season match, consulting both managers for agreement with his decision.

As a result Aveley players allowed the Ambers score in return. Taylor Miles stepped up to take the resulting freekick and placed it past Blaedorn.

Ten minutes later, Cheshunt supporters believed Aveley were lucky to escape another red card when Millers' Jason Ring put a very tough challenge in on Sam Mvemba. Players and fans in the stand were calling for a red, but the referee continued his policy of player parity and Ring remained on the pitch.

The game was played out in a competitive spirit with chances at both ends but there was no further scoring.