COLNE and Eastwood Town produced a scintillating cup tie on Saturday that the record Reds crowd will remember for years to come.

The home side looked to have clinched a semi-final spot three minutes from the end of extra time when Scott Gizon headed the Reds ahead for the third time.

But just 60 seconds later the celebrations and Colne hearts were broken when Eastwood Town substitute Peter Knox made it 4-4 with a great volley from 25 yards.

It was the second time in the game that Colne blew it because they were only minutes away from victory in normal time when Eastwood's Meikle cored to make it 3-3 and force the extra half hour.

The Reds made a nervy start to the game and Eastwood looked the more likely to gain advantage. But against the run of play Colne went ahead when a long throw from Paul Walker caused havoc in the visitors' defence and Carl Haworth struck a low shot home.

Five minutes later Eastwood were level when a corner was headed home by skipper Paul Gould.

Then a replica set piece saw them take a 2-1 when Mark Fisher headed past the stranded Ross Baxter.

The second half saw both sides having chances before the game exploded in a two-minute spell midway through the half.

A cross from Walker was headed home by the Reds' Vase hero Ian Simpson to level the score and a minute later Simpson was again on hand to blast the ball home from close range.

With the crowd of 645 now roaring the Reds on they had chances to finish it but it was Eastwood who silenced the supporters to send the tie into extra time when Meikle made it 3-3.

Either side could have won the tie in extra time as the players tired but those two late goals mean a replay at Coronation Park tomorrow night (7.45pm).

Manager Nigel Coates was disappointed with the start the Reds made but he has hope for the return trip to Nottinghamshire.

He said: "We can play better than that and all season we have been at our best when we are up against it.

"We have had better performances away in the Vase and we are still in the draw today.

"It will take a Wimbledon type approach to see us through. There are a few knocks and some tired legs but I don't expect to have to lift the lads for Tuesday.

"They know that if we defend better and work hard we can get a result."

Colne have a coach leaving the Thatch and Thistle for the replay on Tuesday at 4pm.

Supporters wishing to travel should contact Secretary David Blacklock on 01282 696340.

COLNE 4

EASTWOOD TOWN 4

Attendance: 645