AFTER a promising first half that saw the Bluebirds deservedly take a lead into the break, Chippenham faded after the interval and had to be content with their first Southern Premier Division point against Redditch for three seasons.

After George Washbourne had fired over for the visitors the Bluebirds took the lead on eight minutes.

Dave Pratt was fouled on the right hand side of the area and the Redditch defence failed to deal with Matt Jones's free kick allowing Alex Ferguson to head home beyond the far post.

The goal was a landmark as it proved to be the Bluebirds 1000th goal in the Southern League since they joined in 2001.

On 21 minutes Chris Allen's free kick was touched over the bar by Bradley Catlow.

In a rare Redditch raid, former Reds player Will Richards blocked an effort from Jordan Jones.

Three minutes before the break Catlow did well to get down to block a low shot from Ferguson and similarly denied Dave Pratt's follow up.

After the interval Ferguson shot over before Matt Smith slipped him a lovely pass that Ferguson hit in his stride but Catlow just managed to get a touch.

On 55 minutes Andy Sandell's swerving 25-yard shot bounced off Catlow's body but rolled wide.

Redditch equalised on the hour when Michael Taylor was fouled in the area and Reece Hales hit home the resulting penalty. Washbourne then headed wide and Reds substitute Ahamid Ali also failed to find the target.

Fifteen minutes from time Sandell was clattered in the area by Catlow but only a corner was awarded.

From the resulting flag kick the Redditch goal led a charmed life with two shots being cleared off.the line.

Chippenham's final chance came 10 minutes from time when Sandell's long throw was only half cleared but Jones fired over.

Chippenham: Chitty, Horgan, Beeden, Allen (Best 80), Tindle, Richards, Ferguson, Smith (Griffin 70), Pratt, Sandell, Jones.

Subs not used: Campbell, Bowman, Pook.

Referee: Martin Underhay (Weymouth).

Attendance: 285