For 20 minutes, Burnham dominated their championship rivals, but they could not sustain this and ended with only a point to leave their title hopes fading.

Ramblers began so impressively. Basildon's recent changes saw them looking ragged and square at the back and Francis and Stevens immediately got in behind them. Both missed early one-on-ones, Francis' chance probably the easier.

But on 18 minutes he got clear again and despite the attention of two defenders, slotted the ball home with style.

On 26 minutes, Ramblers were lucky to get away with not conceding a goal after a misunderstanding between goalkeeper Reeves and one of his central defenders.

In the 40th minute Reeves made a superb spread-eagled block to keep his side ahead.

Just before the break Ramblers put together the moment of the match, a sweeping move involving Herbert and Dobson ending with the youngster firing inches wide.

In the second half Basildon looked the stronger and all Burnham had to offer was the possibility of Dean Francis outwitting a still squarish back line.

Twice he was foiled by a brave and alert goalkeeper.

On 70 minutes from a free kick 20 yards out, Hunt fired the ball past a bemused Reeves, who appeared to have had a misunderstanding with the wall.

Burnham managed a late flurry which saw Cousins have a header cleared off the line, but this was not a point gained.

Burnham Ramblers: Reeves, Dobson, Ford, Arnold, Tracey, Cousins, Wright, Fletcher, Stevens, Francis and Herbert.

Substitutes: Shirley (Wright), Thurley (Herbert) and Marchmant (not used).

The Ramblers' next fixture is at Hullbridge on Tuesday March 9.

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