Lewes 1, Aveley 1

MILLERS missed the opportunity to go to the top of the table on a wild and wet night on the south coast but they will still have been pleased with a hard-working effort that sustains their promotion credentials.

With Hornchurch also drawing, a win for Aveley would have put them top on goal difference but it wasn't to be.

The Millers made an early breakthrough with George Sykes getting his eleventh of the season coming after just eight minutes after Jon Nzengo attacked down the right hand side and delivered a cross into the box where Sykes slid in before keeper Lewis Carey could get to the ball and he slotted it into the net.

The visitors thought they had a second when Kayne Diedrick-Roberts netted from close range but it was ruled out for offside.

With heavy rain and thunder and lightning around the Dripping Pan Millers dug deep as Lewes responded and took the lead into the break.

However, parity was eventually restored just after the hour when Joe Taylor converted from the penalty spot.

Both sides had chances in the closing half hour and Aveley were grateful for an outstanding save from Jonathon North in the closing stages to ensure they returned home with a point. They stay fourth in the table and are next in action away to Cray Wanderers at Bromley's Hayes Lane ground on Saturday.