Scoop, don't drain. Depending on how much debris is in there, expect to scoop several times. Then, get one of those garden hose attached nets that shoot water up into the net. It attaches to a pool pole. The water jets in the net's base causes a venturi action that will suck the rest of the leaves.

Brush the pool with a nylon pool brush.After the dead algae falls back to the bottom, vacuum to waste.

Test the water for phosphates in addition to your pH, Alk and free chlorine. Salt too if you need to. Add chems as needed to balance it.

It's work but it's the easiest/fastest/safest way I know.

Draining a pool too low can be very problematic. Each type of pool has its issues to be aware of and should be done by people that have been trained and experienced.

Thanks for the information. It's an inground vinyl lined pool. I have been told it should only really be drained during major work like a liner replacement. You've confirmed it for me. Thanks again.

Mike