Abingdon United shook off the dismissal of Paul Taplin to secure their Evo-Stik Division 1 South & West future with a goalless draw against the play-off contenders.

It was also the first time they have drawn a game at Northcourt Road all season.

Early on, Abingdon keeper James Foster denied Brendon Barnes, before a flying block from Gareth Thomas kept out a close-range shot from the same player.

In between, opposite number Kyle Phillips saved Carl Self’s drive before keeping out Lawrence Prior’s effort with his feet.

Early in the second half, Foster did well to deny Nick McCootie at full stretch.

With 15 minutes to go, Abingdon were reduced to ten men when Taplin was sent off for a two-footed tackle.

Late on, Foster showed his agility when he changed direction to deny Dan Cleverley, as Abingdon held on for a share of the spoils.

Abingdon Utd: Foster, Baker, James, Thomas, Taplin, Melledew (Tucker 85), Riccio, Evans, Self (Ross 80), Prior, Davis. Subs not used: Bourne, Woodley, Christodolou.

Attendance: 51.