CHESTERFIELD boss Martin Allen believes Billericay Town are a club on the up.

Allen’s National League side ended Town’s dreams of reaching the second round of the FA Cup for the first time in the club’s history thanks to a 3-1 first round replay win at the AGP Arena.

But, having seen his side forced to a replay after the 1-1 draw at the Proact Stadium earlier this month, Allen has backed Billericay to continue climbing the pyramid and join the Spireites in the top tier of non-league football with promotion at the end of this season.

“I don’t think there was a lot between the two sides,” said Allen.

“They had chances, we had chances, we took ours, they didn’t take theirs.

“They were two great FA Cup ties, I would say, and it was great for the FA Cup.

“I don’t think their manager (Dean Brennan) can complain at the effort, the commitment, the passion, and the skill levels of his team and it’s no wonder they’ve had the promotions here at Billericay.

“This club is on the way up, there’s no doubt about it, and it’s a great result for us.”

Tom Denton, who came on as a late substitute in the original first round tie 10 days earlier, booked Chesterfield’s place in the second round with a fine hat-trick in front of a bumper crowd.

Although Joe Kizzi levelled matters early in the second half, Billericay crashed out of the competition as Denton restored the visitors’ lead two minutes later before completing his hat-trick late on.

The Spireites will now entertain League Two side Grimsby Town in a home tie at Billericay’s expense.