Smith returns as Bournemouth steal late draw in FA Cup

Caltex Socceroos defender Brad Smith has made his long-awaited return for Bournemouth as they snatched a late draw against Wigan in the FA Cup overnight.

The Cherries came from 2-0 down to draw 2-2 thanks to Steve Cook’s stoppage-time equalizer against the League One leaders.

It was Smith’s first appearance in Bournemouth’s first team since picking up an injury in September.

The Aussie left-back has battled both hip and quad injuries for much of the season but is slowly working his way back up to full fitness.

He was one of eight changes Bournemouth boss Eddie How made to his side that drew 2-2 with Mat Ryan’s Brighton on New Year’s Day.

Smith played just the first half at the Vitality Stadium before he was replaced by Marc Pugh.

And it was second half goals from Lys Mousset and then Cook’s header at the death that earned the EPL side a replay later this month.

Elsewhere and Aaron Mooy was rested as Huddersfield Town accounted for Championship outfit Bolton Wanderers 2-1 at the Macron Stadium.

Two goals in a minute early in the second half from Rajiv van La Parra and Daniel Williams proved enough for the Terriers to advance to Round 4.

Fellow EPL Caltex Socceroo is in action for Brighton on Tuesday morning (AEDT) when they host Crystal Palace.