FA CUP: First round in sight for Chippenham
8:00am Monday 8th October 2012 in Latest News
CHIPPENHAM assistant manager Richard Fey was delighted to see his side battle their way to the final qualifying round of the FA Cup on Saturday.
The Bluebirds faced a stern examination from spirited Combined Counties League opponents Badshot Lea at Hardenhuish Park but held their nerve to clinch a 3-1 victory.
After embarking on scouting missions at Badshot alongside manager Nathan Rudge, Fey was certain that their Surrey opponents lived up to their billing in one of the biggest matches of their history and was all the more thrilled to see the Bluebirds triumph.
“They’d beaten teams at our level and it was the biggest game in their history – that showed,” said Fey.
“They didn’t lie down, even when we were 3-1 up, and I wouldn’t be surprised if they went on to win their league.
“With the amount of injuries, cup-ties and suspensions we had, we knew we’d be up against it but we were at home and the support was the best I’ve known since I’ve been here.
“It was a great day for the club too because £7,500 is massive.”
Chippenham had taken an early lead when Brandon Barnes fired in a free-kick.
The impressive Alan Griffin was denied by visiting keeper Matt Watson but the forward was the architect for the Bluebirds’ second when he his pull-back teed up Lee Phillips for a tap in.
Michael Griffiths immediately pulled one back for plucky Badshot to make a game of it before the break.
Griffin was the provider of Chippenham’s insurance goal in the second period as his through ball sent Josh Egan clear to finish confidently.
Badshot were given another glimmer of hope late on when Toby Osman was sent off for a needless lunge but the Bluebirds held firm to seal their place in the next round.
The draw for the final qualifying round takes place this afternoon and Chippenham could find themselves as the minnows this time around with a host of Conference Premier sides in the hat.
But Fey says that his squad will relish taking on whoever’s thrown their way and added: “We’ll take anyone at home and whoever that may be, we’ll have a go.
“It’s just nice to come this far and be in the next round and the chairman (John Applegate) is happy.”
