BLUEBIRDS’ boss Mark Collier was chipper with his side’s performance despite being held 1-1 by Frome Town at Hardenhuish Park.

The hosts took a second half lead when a Matt Jones thunderbolt cannoned off the crossbar and the loose ball was fired home by former Frome man Matt Smith.

However, the visitors hauled themselves back level when Rob Hobbs headed home substitute Jake Hutchings’ cross in the 77th minute.

The point saw Chippenham slip from the top of the Evo-Stik League Southern Premier Division, but Collier was pleased with the character shown by his side on a night where he was without a recognised striker.

“It was a tough game but we played particularly well,” said Collier.

“The performance wasn’t really rewarded with the victory.

“Their keeper has pulled off three or four great saves and we have hit the woodwork twice, so we had a disappointed dressing room afterwards.

“We know that Frome are an improving outfit. They are a completely different side to what they were at the start of the season and I would imagine that they will climb the table very quickly.

“On the back of us having to set up a team without a recognised striker, which was difficult, I saw some pleasing things about different systems we could play.

“Although the disappointment of not getting the three points was there, I was particularly pleased with the performance and the attitude of the players.

“I think that will stand us in good stead for the season going on.”

Despite losing their grip on top spot to Leamington, Collier is content with the start the start made by his side to the campaign.

“I think we have done very well,” he added.

“We have been to some of the big clubs in the division and to still be second in the league and in the FA Cup going into October is credit to the players.

“We have become a very difficult team to beat and are very resolute.

“Once we have all our players back fit, we can definitely be a force in this league.”

Collier now turns his attentions to a long away trip to King’s Lynn Town who, despite sitting just three places out of the drop zone, will not be an easy opponent, as Poole Town found out.

“They’ve started indifferently,” said Collier.

“They have had some good performances and were particularly impressive when they beat Poole 3-2 (on September 5), but they have lost as many games as they have won.

“The difficulty in playing King’s Lynn is that the coach leaves at 8.30am and it is a long trek for us all. Their average crowd is around 600, so quite an intimidating place to go to.

“We should enjoy going there and I would imagine we would start as favourites.”

Frome manager Nick Bunyard has confirmed that his club have made a seven-day approach for Chippenham defender Jon Beeden.