CHIPPENHAM avoided an encounter with a premier division team when they drew Paulton Rovers in the quarterfinals if the Southern League Cup.

The Bluebirds, who advanced to the last eight with an convincing 4-0 demolition of Tiverton, will meet the Division One West side at their Winterfield Road ground on February 28.

Chippenham boss Steve White was delighted with the tie but is anticipating a closely-contested game.

He said: "I went down to Paulton and watched them beat Merthyr Tydfil in the last round.

"They are a strong side and will be difficult to beat on their own pitch. There is a good atmosphere there but I imagine we will take a good following with us to Paulton."

The match will be a first return to Winterfield Road for ex-Paulton striker Sam Allison. The now Bluebird spent three months at Rovers in 2003 and is looking forward the clash against some of his close friends.

He said: "Both teams know each other well and it gives the game an edge. I was pleased when I found out the draw, it should be an interesting match."

The forward wants to revenge for a 3-2 pre-season friendly defeat tand hopes he will come up against defender Nick Bunyard.

He said: "Nick is a good friend of mine and he came to watch us against Tiverton. After the game he texted me saying 'see you in the next round'. It will be an extremely competitive match."

The goalscorer is being wary of the Southern League One side after they ousted premier title chasers Merthyr.

"They are a good team and we have to respect every opponent, it does not matter which league they are in. They have done extremely well to get this far."

Also left in the competition are Chippenham's Southern League Premier Division title rivals Bedford. They will travel to the victors of fourth round replay between Chesham United or Division One side Bracknell Town.

This Saturday's opponents Kings Lynn have a home tie when they take on Southern League Cup giant killers Sutton Coalfield Town.

Coalfield progressed to the quarterfinals by disassembling Rugby 8-2 in injury time after being 2-0 down with just three minutes left of normal time. In the fourth round they took apart promotion challengers Halesowen 4-0.

Southern division high flyers Histon will meet the winners of Maldon Town and East Thurrock United.