HULLBRIDGE Sports were able to remain at the top of the Essex Senior League standings after coming from behind to claim a 1-1 draw against Walthamstow.

Fellow high-flyers Walthamstow were able to go in at the break with a slender lead as James Peagram broke the deadlock in first half stoppage time.

But Darren Manning’s side fought back and showed why they have made an impressive start to the new campaign as they got back on level terms just before the hour mark.

Captain Jimmy Cox was on hand to head home a fine Dan Okah cross.

And. although both sides pushed for a winning goal, the defences stood firm and the points were shared.

Meanwhile, Southend Manor progressed from the second qualifying round of the FA Vase after sealing a 4-3 win over Haverhill Rovers in a thrilling encounter.

Nathan Dewberry scored all four goals for Adam Peek’s side.

Dewberry put Manor in the ascendancy by giving the home side a two-goal lead early on.

But Haverhill hit back and scored three unanswered goals to put the hosts on the back foot.

However, Dewberry equalised to complete his hat-trick and round off an entertaining first half.

While goals were in short supply after the break, Dewberry notched his fourth to secure the victory.