SAM Higgins’ ninth goal in the FA Cup was not enough to earn brave Chelmsford a replay after two goals in the last 17 minutes booked Wycombe’s place in today’s third round draw following a 3-1 victory.

The League Two high-flyers went in at half time with a lead given to them by Scott Rendell’s 22nd minute opener, but a shock was on the cards when Higgins equalised to send the 1,400 City supporters who made the journey to Adams Park into ecstasy.

But a second for Rendell and Stuart Beavon’s 84th minute third broke the hearts of the young Chelmsford team.

Their manager, Glenn Pennyfather, said: “I’m proud of everything – the players and the supporters have been magnificent and it’s done us the power of good. We’re all sportsmen who want to win but we can’t deny it’s an achievement to get this far.”