Oxhey Jets draw with Westside in Combined Counties League

Both sides had to contend with a heavy, difficult pitch and also a referee who seemingly wanted to get into the Christmas spirit by handing out as many cards as possible, a fifth-minute booking setting the tone for what was to follow.

The visitors took the lead with a controversial penalty in the 14th minute after a Westside forward ran into keeper Lewis Lavin and got the benefit of the decision.

Lewis Lavin is unable to keep out the Westside penalty. (Image: Len Kerswill)

Jets were disjointed and struggling to get going and they conceded for a second time after 24 minutes.

However, this shocked the home side into life and they responded well, allowing an enjoyable end-to-end game to unfold despite the conditions and the referee’s whistle.

Jets on the attack (Image: Len Kerswill)

It took Jets only two minutes to half the deficit when a fine cross from Danny Fowler was met with a looping header from James Barnett to make it 2-1.

The home side began to get on top after the break and an equaliser looked increasingly likely, but they still had to be on their defensive toes against an opposition that was quick on the break.

Dylan Hickman-Singh was Westside’s tormentor in chief and it was his run that was ended with a trip that allowed Archie James to make it 2-2 from the penalty spot after 82 minutes.

Archie James equalises from the penalty spot in the dark (Image: Len Kerswill)

Jets pushed for the winner in the closing stages and went close on several occasions as Westside’s keeper made some outstanding saves to ensure his side clung onto a point.

The draw leaves Jets 12th in the Combined Counties League Division One table.