Ashford’s hopes of a first win in Ryman League Division 1 South since mid-October faltered following a second half sending off.

Steve Lovell’s (pictured) side were beating hosts Whyteleafe 2-1 before Nick Smith saw red for two cautions in quick succession.

The numerical advantage was too much for Ashford to deal with and they conceded afterwards and eventually had to hang on for a point.

Things had started well for Ashford as they took a fifth minute lead. A corner came into the box and after a melee defender Laurence Harvey smashed home from close range.

Leon McDowall levelled the game three minutes later and nearly gave Leafe the lead when he curled a shot against the post.Ashford retook the advantage when Mitchell Sherwood scored from the penalty spot before the interval.

Smith was cautioned for an altercation with Leafe’s Lee Sidwell and moments later a poor tackle in the middle of pitch earned him second before the hour mark.

Leafe put Ashford under plenty of pressure and made it 2-2 on 78 minute when

Darren Watson beat keeper Darren Ibrahim to the cross and headed home.