With a number of players unavailable, David East slotted in at right back, whilst ex-Chelmsford City player Scarlett started up-front.

The hosts, who are lining up in the Eastern Counties Division One this coming season had a lively opening, going close just three minutes in.

Leon Lalite and Danny Bunce dragged shots wide of the goal, and Jake Hall’s speculative effort forced the keeper into fumbling his save for a corner.

Joao Carlos and Luke Marshall both took tumbles inside the area, with neither adjudged to be worthy of a penalty.

Seven minutes before the break, Carlos was fouled just outside the area, giving Blues a good position to attack from. Hall delivered the in swinging cross, and Scarlett was on hand to head past the home keeper.

Grant Cooper, Brian Moses and Leslie Thompson (trialist) replaced Ryan Kirby, Scarlett and Marshall respectively at the restart.

Town equalised ten minutes into the half as the ball was slotted home from six yards following a cross in from the right.

David East went close to giving Blues the lead, but his effort from the edge of the area just went past the left hand upright.

With fifteen minutes remaining, Thompson had a great chance as he was slipped in by Jake Hall. His shot was palmed onto the bar by the keeper, which he gathered on the rebound.

Substitute Moses would have been better placed to pass across goal for Thompson, however his shot from a tight angle hit the side netting.

Both sides were looking for a winning goal, but the defences held firm, and the match ended one apiece.

Blues are in action again on Tuesday evening when they head to Essex Senior League side Southend Manor for their penultimate pre-season friendly.

Grays Athletic: - Lamar Johnson, David East, Ryan Kirby (Grant Cooper), Junior Baker, Danny Bunce, Luke Marshall (Leslie Thompson, trialist), Jake Hall, Leon Lalite, Kenny Beaney (Joe Smallwood), Joao Carlos, Tyrone Scarlett (Brian Moses)