CHRIS Dickson left it late to ensure a share of the spoils against Hungerford Town.

Chelmsford City continue to struggle for form in the National League South run in and looked to be heading for defeat after Nicholas Bignall’s effort gave the hosts a half-time lead.

But Dickson’s deflected effort made it 1-1 to make it honours even come the final whistle.

Clarets boss Rod Stringer - returned to the dugout following a three game touchline ban - made a host of changes to his team but the away side started the better.

Chris Smith deflected a left-wing cross past goalkeeper Sam Beasant, but the on-loan defender reacted quickly to clear the ball off the line.

Dickson came close to the opener after he replaced Phil Roberts but he was just unable to divert a cross home.

Hungerford opened the scoring when Bignall drove a low shot past Beasant from 25 yards.

The Crusaders dominated the opening stages of the second half and could have easily extended their lead.

Debutant Scott Fenwick was kept out by Hungerford goalkeeper Marcus Beauchamp and Dickson headed just over the crossbar.

But, following a number of missed chances by the visitors, Chelmsford were to get their goal.

Dickson cut inside and saw his shot take a wicked deflection before trickling over the line.

Chelmsford City: Beasant, Barnum-Bobb, Braham-Barrett, Omozusi, Spillane (Giles 23’), Smith, Johnson, Church, Fenwick, Roberts (Dickson 28’), Davies (Miles 64’)