CHIPPENHAM Town put a large dent in Hungerford's play off ambitions as they came away with a very credible draw in this rearranged match in Berkshire.
Both sides finished with ten men as the Bluebirds James Guthrie received his second yellow card two minutes from time.
Then, in stoppage time Chippenham substitute Jake Harris looked to take the ball past keeper Paul Strudley outside of the area and the Hungerford keeper grabbed the ball earning himself a straight red.
Hungerford had the better of the first half with Ian Herring failing with two long-range efforts whilst Kent Kauppinen pulled off a superb flying save to deny Mark Draycott.
The Bluebirds fashioned a series of half-chances as Lee Phillips twice the side netting, while also seeing a headed effort held by Strudley.
Chippenham took the lead on 41 minutes when Harley Purnell's low through ball found Alan Griffin with his back to goal.
The Chippenham skipper expertly controlled the ball before turning and firing off a low shot that Strudley managed to get a hand to but could not keep out.
Hungerford drew level on 65 minutes when a defensive slip allowed substitute Harry Goodger to whip in a cross and Draycott got the faintest of touches with his head to deceive Kauppinen.
Chippenham had few second-half chances although Strudley saved a long distance shot from Griffin, while the Chippenham skipper failed to beat stand in keeper Goodgen from the free kick following Strudley's dismissal.
Town travel to Hitchin Town on Saturday before facing Hungerford again, this time at Hardenhuish Park, on Easter Monday in their penultimate match - and final one at home - of the season.
Chippenham: Kauppinen, Purnell, Monks (Harvey 84), Smith, Beedon, Tindle, McClennan, Leigh, Griffin, Phillips (Harris 90),Guthrie .
Subs not used: Simpson, John
Yellow cards: Guthrie 88 Harvey 86
Red cards: Guthrie, Strudley 90
Referee: Adam Bayliss
Attendance: 164
MORE CHIPPENHAM TOWN NEWS, REACTION & PICTURES IN THIS WEEK'S GAZETTE & HERALD AND FOLOW BLUEBIRDS LIVE FROM MONDAY'S CLASH AGAINST HUNGERFORD WITH SPORTS WRITER DAN BARNES AT GAZETTEANDHERALD.CO.UK/SPORT
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here