Ardley United failed to build on their lead as they were held to a 1-1 draw at Holyport on Tuesday night.

Ricky Johnson put them ahead, but Luke Dexter hit back for a share of the spoils.

The result saw Kevin Brock’s side slip 13 points behind Uhlsport Hellenic League Premier Division leaders Highmoor Ibis, though they have three games in hand.

The hosts started the stronger, with Fred Tripp going close after a strong run.

At the other end, Joe Eyre shot over the bar following good work from Diego Petri-aggi and Jon Gardner.

Ardley kept up the pressure and took the lead on 22 minutes.

Callum Convey floated in a free kick from right which was headed home by former Banbury striker Johnson.

However, Ardley failed to capitalise on their advantage in an increasingly scrappy affair.

Ardley had a lucky escape at the end of the first half when Adam Paget broke through only to shoot straight at keeper Jack Harding when well-placed.

Meaningful chances were at a premium until the 78th min-ute when Holyport equalised.

Ardley failed to clear a corner and when the ball was played back in by Paget, Dex-ter powerfully headed past Harding.

Both sides had the chance to win it late on, with Ardley’s Ollie Stanbridge miskicking when clean through and Paget blasting over.

On Saturday, Ardley make the short trip to Oxford City Nomads.