Cheshunt 1 Tonbridge Angels 1

TONBRIDGE Angels remain unbeaten in the Ryman Premier League in 2005 but will be disappointed to have taken just a point from their trip to Cheshunt.

After a 6-1 humbling in the reverse fixture earlier this season, the Angels had a chance for revenge following the departure of the Cheshunt manager and several players in recent weeks.

But despite taking the lead through a superb Steve Sodje strike and being awarded a last minute penalty, Tony Dolby's men had to be satsified with a draw.

The Angels boss said: "I don't think anyone expected us to come here and trounce them because they're still a very good side with some quick players. Plus, the pitch here is pretty awful and they'll use that to their advantage as the home side."

Cheshunt threatened in the 29th minute when Henry Haastrup rounded Jamie Turner but his weak shot from a narrow angle was cleared off the line.

Sixty seconds later, a 25-yard volley by Steve Sodje, still suffering the effects of a toe injury, flew past Bradley Hughes to make it 1-0.

Leroy Huggins hit the bar as Tonbridge created the better chances but a mistake from Jamie Turner, dropping the ball in a challenge with Steve Obeng, allowed the Cheshunt man to equalise with a backheel in the 38th minute.

Neither side were able to threaten in the second half until sub Luke Piscina was bundled over in the area.

With their three first-choice penalty takers, Dolby, Brendon Cass and Anthony Hogg, all off the field the ball found its way to John Farley, the only player to be successful in the FA Trophy shootout against Walton.

This time though, Hughes was able to parry the spot-kick to leave the Angels five points from safety.

Dolby added: "The game's all about taking chances and we just didn't do it, although it's encouraging we did create more than them.

"I had said Lenny Piper would take the penalties but the ball was kicked around and landed in John's hands. I had every confidence in him scoring after Tuesday but it didn't go for him this time."