25 pictures from Mile Oak's clash with Chessington and Hook in the Southern Combination League

It was a creditable point for Oak, who have struggled to pull away from the bottom few places so far this term.

See pictures by Stephen Goodger from the match on this page and the ones linked and get the local football action in the Worthing Herald – out on Thursday.

On a wet and windy afternoon after passing a pitch inspection Mile Oak welcomed Chessington to the Chalky Road ground. That the game was the only grass match played in SCFL divisions one and two was testament to secretary and groundsman Karl Gillingham’s outstanding daily work on the pitch.

Missing club captain Josh Cooper and others, Oak welcomed debutant Ross Myers, recently signed from Shoreham. Chessington started like the team they are in chasing promotion.

Oak didn’t get out of the blocks and faced continual pressure from two speedy wingers and a direct style of play. As the half wore on they rode the storm and created two great chances which they didn’t convert.

Oak came out with a renewed confidence for the second half and took the game to Chessington, which resulted in an end to end spectacle.

Danny Curd, who was a strong presence all afternoon, was replaced on 65 minutes by Callum Wells, who himself was replaced on 80 minutes after sustaining a hamstring injury, his place taken by Jack Marriott.

Chances came and went for both sides and in truth on another day it could have finished 4-4 but 0-0 it was at the final whistle. On reflection a fair result although Oak had the clearest chances.

Some encouraging performances from Sammy Donnelly’s side (man of match - Ross Myers) and the manager is building a committed and close-knit group of players.

This is a tough league, but the players are responding to early season setbacks, and with thriving youth, ladies and veterans’ sides – backed by a hard working committee - the club say the future is orange.