Cray Wanderers secured a replay against Maidstone United after Rob Strachan scored a late equalizer in the 83rd minute during their matchup on Monday night. The contest, held at Cray’s home ground, ended in a 1-1 draw, setting up a rematch scheduled for Tuesday.

Cray Wanderers started strongly, asserting early dominance in the first half. Frankie Raymond came close to opening the scoring with a shot from a corner, which was tipped over by the Maidstone defense. Maidstone responded with an effort from Taylor Foran, who headed over the crossbar from a Riley Court free-kick.

Cray maintained pressure, with Ola Ogunwamide and Soul Kader combining to create a chance for Ade Yusuff, whose volley went wide of the target. Ogunwamide then had his attempt blocked by Frankie Hvid, and Sammie McLeod’s follow-up header from the resulting corner was cleared off the line by Maidstone defenders. Ogunwamide also missed narrowly with a curling shot.

Maidstone threatened late in the first half through a quick break following a Cray corner, as Riley Court set up Tom Leahy, whose curling effort was off target. In goal for Cray was loanee JJ Briggs, who made a crucial save just before halftime to deny a close-range effort from Ken Charles.

The second half began with Maidstone showing more initiative. Charles had a goal disallowed for offside early in the period. Cray continued to press, with Lateef Adaja testing Maidstone goalkeeper Lenny Holden, who managed to push the shot out for a corner.

Maidstone eventually took the lead in the 71st minute. After a shot from Hanson was deflected wide, Tom Leahy capitalized on the loose ball and fired in from the edge of the penalty area to put Maidstone ahead.

However, Cray Wanderers responded quickly. Rob Strachan’s strike seven minutes later brought the match level, ensuring the tie would proceed to a replay. Both sides will look to advance in their upcoming fixture set for Tuesday evening.