Abingdon Town, without several key players, missed the chance to lift themselves away from the lower reaches of the Ryman Division 3 table when they were held to a draw by lowly Clapton last night.

Town started brightly enough with their midfield trio of Roger Charles, Danny Morgan and Darren Watts gaining early control, while Jon Gardner's pace and Richard Twine's clever skills caused the visitors problems.

However, it was Clapton who broke the deadlock from a corner in the 14th minute when Town failed to clear.

Abingdon levelled in the 38th minute with a fine individual goal. Gardner's pace took him past two defenders, and as Charles drew defenders away, Gardner fired past keeper Knox into the corner.

After the interval, neither side could establish control and chances were at a premium. The best fell to Gardner, whose effort rebounded to safety off the foot of the post.

Abingdon Tn: McLaughlin, Thomas, Price, Burden, Gill, Morgan, Charles, Gardner (Cleevely), Paterson, Watts, Twine. Sub not used: James.