CHIPPENHAM Town ensured they will be in the draw for the FA Cup first round on Monday after a last-gasp Mike Jones equaliser secured them a 1-1 draw and replay against National League side Maidenhead United on Saturday.

Mark Collier’s Bluebirds, who play a tier lower in National League South, trailed to Christian Smith’s strike just before the hour mark at Hardenhuish Park.

However, the home side rallied and Jones pounced deep into added time at the end of the game to ensure the two sides must meet again in Berkshire on Tuesday night to determine a winner.

Manager Collier said: “I have got mixed feelings, really.

“Maidenhead started well and were on the front foot. They have obviously got a lot of experience and a lot of size – what you would expect from a Conference team.

“But we grew into the game and in the second half, although we went a goal down, from that period on, we were on the front foot and the dominant team.

“We felt we should have scored more than we did but when you get a late equaliser like that, it almost feels like a victory.

“We didn’t lie down and we kept on going, and when you score at the death it shows you have got a bit of spirit and togetherness.

“The bottom line is that we are still in the hat for the draw on Monday.”

Although knowing his side will have to raise their game even further in order to claim victory on the road, Collier says the Bluebirds will make the trip to York Road full of belief.

“We equipped ourselves well and there was no fear factor from us,” said Collier.

“I know we were the underdogs, but we grew into the game and the players grew in confidence as the game went on.

“We are pleased to still be in the hat and have another go, even though we become even bigger underdogs going away from home, but it is a free hit for us now.

“We have got some tired bodies and we will think about whether we need to freshen up or not.

“We look forward to the replay and take confidence from the fact we have gone toe-to-toe with a Conference team.”