Hastings United would appear to be inching their way to safety in the premier division after contesting a third successive 1-1 draw.

The point from a keenly-contested south coast derby leaves Hastings hovering just above the relegation zone, four points ahead of third bottom Halesowen.

Both goals came in the first half and both were somewhat against the run of play.

Hastings struck first after 15 minutes when Steve Yates drove the ball across the Dover box. Keeper Paul Hyde did well to save the initial shot but was powerless to prevent Chris Honey from lashing home the rebound.

The lead lasted only ten minutes. A free-kick was only partially cleared and the ball fell invitingly for Paul Sykes who scored at the second attempt.

Hastings' hopes of going for the win were hit 13 minutes from time when midfielder Paul Ruddy was sent off for picking up his second yellow card, both awarded for fouls.

Although down to ten men, Hastings almost snatched a late victory but Stuart Playford was unable to keep his header down.

Meanwhile, Crawley's home match against Tiverton was postponed because of a waterlogged pitch.