Gravesend & N 1 Heybridge Swifts 1

GRAVESEND & Northfleet were again made to wait for a first home win of the season with last night's disappointing draw in the Ryman League, Premier Division.

The Fleet, who have performed better on away days this season, chalking up impressive wins at Kingstonian, Aldershot and Maidenhead, faded badly against Heybridge.

Fleet had much the better of the first-half exchanges and thoroughly deserved to take the lead in the 45th minute. Substitute Lee Spiller, a 29th-minute replacement for the injured Darren Smith, broke the deadlock when he turned in Justin Skinner's cross.

Skinner had earlier been unlucky with a shot that struck the bar while skipper Jimmy Jackson had a shot cleared off the Heybridge goalline in the 15th minute.

The key to Fleet's early dominance was the form of midfielder Robert Owen who dictated play as he celebrated in style his award of the club's player of the month. But when he faded in the second half, so did the team.

While Heybridge moved up a gear, the Fleet lost all their early momentum.

Goalkeeper Jamie Turner kept the lead intact with outstanding saves. But the Fleet failed to heed the warning and Colin Wall headed the equaliser a minute later.

Referee Paul Miller cautioned eight players and added on a staggering 11 minutes for stoppages.