CLANFIELD 85 threw away a two-goal lead to share the points with a robust Cheltenham Saracens at Radcot Road.

The hosts had carved out two chances before opening the scoring in the 14th minute, when Jozef Fullerton’s free-kick was headed on by Connor Tinsley for Zac Oliver to blast home.

Fullerton and Oliver set up Karl Roberts to double the lead in the 25th minute.

But poor defending allowed the visitors to pull a goal back before half-time through Jack Skleinar.

The visitors hit the post after the break and drew level in the 87th minute, when Teejay Hoskins forced the ball in from close range for a share of the points.

While the draw was a blow, Clanfield hope they will be celebrating on Friday night.

Their stunning run to the FA Youth Cup second round saw them short-listed for the junior team of the year at the Oxfordshire Sports Awards, to be held at the Kassam Stadium.

Trevor Cuss, the club’s press officer, said: “We would like to thank everyone who supported the team during some epic encounters.

“For everyone connected with the club it has been a surreal experience for a small village with a population of less than a thousand to progress so far in a national competition.”