Witham Town will have to battle it out with Ryman League division one north side Ilford again on Wednesday night after playing out a 0-0 draw, in their FA Cup preliminary round tie.

Town created a number of opportunities during the tie and manager Danny Greaves was pleased with his players' efforts, against higher league opposition.

He said: “I was very proud of the players and the way they played.

“They played exceptionally well and did everything I asked of them, apart from score.

“It was a frustrating afternoon in that respect and their keeper had a good game, but there were also two or three opportunities we had when we didn't hit the target.

“That was disappointing but it was the first competitive match this season where we've failed to hit the target.”

Witham made a promising start to the tie and were almost ahead after 12 minutes when Kevin Hawes found himself through on goal but saw his attempted lob clear the crossbar.

Witham, inspired by youngster Sam Taylor, made some good runs but was out of luck with his finishing.

Keeper Rob Budd was the busier of the two goalkeepers in the first half and made two stunning saves towards the end of the first half, as Town tried to make the breakthrough at the Spicer McColl Stadium, Spa Road.

Ilford improved a little in the second half but never really threatened the Town goal.

But although Witham remained in control and had chances to win the tie near the end, they were unable to make the all-important breakthrough and the Essex Senior League underdogs had to settle for a replay.

For all of the latest Witham Town news, see this week's Witham and Braintree Times.