GILLINGHAM'S hopes of a good run in the FA Cup are still alive after they scored a late goal in a 1-1 draw with Leeds United in round four at Priestfield (Steve Jackson writes).

Mamady Sidibe scored the all-important equaliser for the Kent club with a left foot half-volley in the 81st minute.

The goal came a matter of seconds after Leeds had been reduced to ten men when Mark Vidkua was shown a straight red card for an elbow on Gillingham player-boss Andy Hessenthaler.

Up to that point the visitors had looked in control. They had created the better clear-cut chances and scored the through Alan Smith.

The blond England striker netted just three minutes after the interval with a precise free-kick from the edge of the box.

Gillingham were a little shell-shocked at that stage after having most of the possession for the opening half and going close in stoppage time when Guy Ipoua volleyed against the post.

Following Smith's goal, Leeds had a couple of good opportunities and Harry Kewell, in particular, should have doubled their lead on 54 minutes when he blasted over when clean through on goal. The miss proved costly and so did Viduka's indiscipline.

The replay is set to take place at Elland Road on Tuesday, February 4.

FULL REPORT AND PICTURES IN MONDAY'S MEDWAY TODAY AND KENT TODAY