Danny Lafferty’s side really took it to the runaway league leaders in the first half, and Kielen Adams soon smashed one against the woodwork following good Che Uche work.

Still in the ascendancy, the lead was taken on 35 minutes.

There was a lot happening in the penalty box as Adams looked to be wiped out.

The ref played a good advantage, and Harry Forshaw nervelessly drilled home.

Answers on a postcard as to what the Bucks’ protests were all about.

Seconds before the interval, Colls got a gilt-edged opportunity to double the lead.

A Bootle arm blocked a cross and, after a powwow between the ref and his eagle-eyed assistant, a penalty was awarded.

Cue more home remonstrations.

Adams’ attempt was true, but Joe Mason guessed correctly for a fine save.

He got a winding for his troubles.

Bootle had to improve after their inevitable interval tongue-lashing, and they certainly did.

Niall Battersby instinctively cleared one off the line in front of the home faithful, whose turn it was now to get out the pitchforks.

The equaliser came just before the hour.

Ben Hodkinson’s half-volleyed lob from the edge of the box was a cracker.

The evenly matched sides continued to trade blows.

Liam Sheppard rounded Mason, but the tight angle weakened the effort, and it was cleared off the line.

Fenton Davies’ last-gasp sortie went narrowly wide, and it was point apiece.

The half-dozen chapter road trip book is closed.

Three wins, two draws and a 500-plus fan turnout for a hellish FA Cup draw.

What an amazing three weeks.

The fixtures continue at breakneck speed.

On Tuesday, Prescot Cables visit the DreamsReality Stadium for a Pitching In NPL Division 1 West fixture, ko 7.45pm.