Eddie Akuamoah kept up his good run in front of goal as Sutton United continued their improved form on Saturday.

But a second half goal meant John Rains' men were pegged back to a 1-1 draw by a Purfleet side who have lost only three games this season.

Purfleet had the first opportunity after five minutes when Jimmy McFarlane shot wide of the United goal.

Sutton had another let off when Pashley hit the post.

But after 27 minutes the persistence of Rob Haworth led to Sutton's goal.

He charged down a clearance by Purfleet goalkeeper Alex O'Reilly and the ball rolled across the penalty area for Akuamoah to tap into an empty net. Sutton nearly made it 2-0 early in the second half when Sam Keebill was denied by an excellent save from home goalkeeper O'Reilly.

But Purfleet earned a point in the 68th minute when Craig Etherington fired a 25-yarder into the Sutton net.

October 26, 2001 16:00