MARK Collier made five changes from New Year's Day and saw his side deservedly battle their way to a draw against local rivals Hungerford, who had won six of their last seven games.

The Bluebirds also overcame the loss of Ryan Campbell to a leg injury midway through the first half.

Greg Tindle almost handed the home side a first-minute lead when his slip saw Kent Kauppinen forced into beating out Lee Smith's shot.

Chippenham then settled into the game and a strong run by Alex Ferguson saw his rasping 35-yard drive knock home keeper Paul Strudley backwards.

Hungerford's James Rusby then inexplicably passed the ball across his own area to Lee Phillips, who failed to beat Strudley from eight yards out.

Phillips then fired wide before Hungerford came back into the match, fashioning several good chances before the break.

The best of these saw Kauppinen tip a Mark Draycott header over the bar whilst also saving an Alan O'Brien's free kick and a James Clark shot.

After the break chances were few and far between, with substitute Toby Osman's shot being blocked and another fizzing across the area.

Phillips saw his headed effort blocked whilst at the other end O'Brien's shot was deflected behind.

Chippenham Town: Kauppinen, McCormack, Beeden, Coupe, Tindle, Preece, Ferguson, Pook, Francis (Edwards 63) Phillips, Campbell (Osman 23).

Subs not used: Smith, Thompson, Holgate

Referee: Paul Forrester.

Attendance: 157