DAVID Eyres' first goal of the season gave Latics an FA Cup replay after Midlands minnows Chasetown had threatened to leave Ronnie Moore's side with a substantial amount of egg on their faces.

With almost 2,000 people watching at Church Street and millions more on the BBC, a shock was on the cards hen the hosts took a 23rd minute lead as Nicky Harrison's volley hit the post before rebounding in off keeper Chris Day.

Eyres brought Oldham level within eight minutes though, exchanging passes with Andy Liddell before beating Martin Taylor with a far post shot.

Chris Porter had already wasted two fine headed chances for Latics before Chasetown took the lead, while a pair of goalline clearances only served to heighten the frustration of the away supporters.

However, it was Chasetown who took all the credit from the match as they outbattled, outplayed and out-enthused a side 133 places above them in the league pyramid.

Day, who later went off with a calf problem, tipped a Damien Whitcombe free-kick behind while replacement Lance Cronin – signed only 72 hours previously – pushed an Andy Turner cross onto the bar and over as Chasetown continued to press.

It was Oldham who almost snatched it late on as Luke Beckett appeared to be felled, attempting to round Taylor instead of shooting, but any winner would have been harsh on Chasetown who come north a week on Wednesday looking to secure a home tie with Brentford in round two.

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