THE Blues stunned their Southern Premier League opponents with a late equaliser to earn a replay in this FA Trophy match - but they left the West Midlands with thoughts of what might have been after a string of good chances.

Blues manager Chris Stammers made two changes from the side that trounced Chorley during the week, with Ray Francis replaced by Paul Horridge in goals and Kris Matthews coming in for Ross Bain, who was cup-tied.

The hosts had much of the early possession, but the Clitheroe defence held firm and Horridge, in particular, was outstanding.

The Blues came into the game and bossed the remainder of the first half with two efforts hitting the woodwork - a 30-yard screamer from Owen Roberts and a volley from Greg Anderson.

And the Halesowen keeper had to be at his best to deny Anderson and Dean.

The second half was a more even affair as Halesowen changed personnel and tactics and adopted a much more direct approach.

And it paid off on 70 minutes after a long ball into the box was flicked on and their striker lobbed Horridge to open the scoring.

The goal galvanised Clitheroe into seeking an immediate equaliser, but they were denied again by the woodwork when Simon Garner's 30-yard chip caused chaos in the home defence.

However, the equaliser duly arrived with 10 minutes to go.

Dean received the ball on the penalty spot, quickly swivveled and shot into the bottom corner of the net to send the 50 or 60 Blues fans delirious.