Invitation League: Arundel skipper Steve Mullen believes this season's division one title battle will be one of the closest yet.

Leaders Arundel were frustrated after taking just 14 points from a home draw against Pagham.

But it was enough to extend their lead to 20 points over second-placed Ifield.

Mullen admits he is surprised to be 20 points ahead with a 114 tally but says it is a sign of how close the league will be.

He said: "I was disappointed we didn't get more points because it would have given us a nice cushion.

I didn't think 114 points would be enough to give us a 20-point lead at this stage, but teams are not picking up too many points at the moment.

"I think that shows how strong the league is and I can't see the winners finishing with many points.

"Last year, Findon won it with 380-odd points but it is not going to be anywhere near that this time. A team would have to go on a long unbeaten run and I don't think anyone will because the other teams are very strong.

"There used to be a few home bankers but it's not like that this time. Everyone seems able to take points off everyone else.

"I had a look through the history books and think it could be one of the lowest scoring seasons. It is going to be very close so we have to make sure we continue playing well and pick up as many points as possible."

Arundel opener Richard Whitcomb hit 43 and Steve Rishman an unbeaten 45 as the hosts finished on 212-5 from 54 overs. A solid 37 from Dave Galey ensured the draw as Pagham finished on 163-8 to go fourth.

Captain Craig Primmer says there must be a vast improvement if Pagham are going to be title contenders.

He said: "I was very disappointed with the way we played. Arundel looked strong but we didn't get going. The league is close at the moment and I think it will be a matter of stringing together a few wins but we will have to play a lot better than we did."