Hornchurch held, Romford humbled

Play-off chasing Hornchurch had to settle for a point from their Ryman Premier Division clash at Margate after a 2-2 draw.

But Romford’s Division One North hopes were hit after a 4-1 defeat at rivals Harlow.

Having already beaten Margate at home in the league and in the FA Trophy at Hartsdown Road, Urchins fell behind as Dean Hill struck in the eighth minute.

Two goals in the space of four minutes turned the match on its head, though, as Kieron St Aimie struck for the third time in four games to level, before strike partner Martin Tuohy put Urchins ahead.

But Margate drew level early in the second half when Wayne Wilson’s inswinging corner found the net without any help, despite Craig Cloke’s attempt to head home.

Hornchurch had a late chance to win it, but Tuohy’s effort after a great run by Frankie Curley was cleared off the line.

Hornchurch remain in ninth place, just one point off a play-off place with six games remaining.

Romford are four points off the pace, but with two games in hand, following their heavy loss at Harlow.

Alex Read and Andy Edmunds were both forced off with injuries in the opening quarter of an hour and Boro fell behind when Lee Roache headed home.

Bertie Brayley doubled the home side’s lead before half-time and, after Kurt Smith and Petrit Elbi went close for the visitors, Roache made it 3-0 in the 54th minute.

Brayley struck again with a 25-yard drive which gave Adam Rafis no chance, but battling Boro grabbed a consolation when Elbi finished off a good move involving Smith, Joe Pearman and Chris Barry.