NEWLY-appointed skipper Ethan Maddocks captained New Milton Town to a 0-0 draw against Wessex One rivals East Cowes Vics.

The contest, which was played in glorious Cowes Week sunshine, started at a frantic pace with both sides charging end to end.

Lyam Texciera created the first chance when he rose highest to head goalwards from a Lewi Brailey corner, only for the ball to bounce wide.

Brailey, a summer recruit from local rivals Bashley, floated a number of teasing balls in but New Milton could not convert.

In the second half, Dom Falco found the base of the post with a thunderous drive.

Chances were at a premium for both sides, although Kieran Burgess in the Linnets goal look assured with everything he had to deal with.

Boss Shane Sheridan came on late and created some space for himself in the final minutes but a last-ditch tackle meant it finished in stalemate.

Linnets: Burgess, Peckham, Molynuex, Texciera, Barber, Maddocks, McCoy, Power, Flynn, Falco, Brailey. Subs: Sheridan, Lines, Louka.