LONDON (REUTERS) - Much-maligned striker Fernando Torres rescued English FA Cup holders Chelsea from an ignominious fourth-round exit after his 83rd-minute equaliser salvaged a 2-2 draw at third-tier Brentford on Sunday.

The Spaniard swept home to secure a replay as Chelsea, who missed out on one Wembley appearance after losing over two legs to Swansea City in the League Cup semi-finals, twice needed to come from behind at Griffin Park.

Chelsea, who have lifted the trophy in four of the last six seasons, were second-best throughout the first half and went behind just before half-time when Italian Marcello Trotta lashed home.

Brazilian Oscar equalised with some fine individual skill 10 minutes into the second half but the hosts stunned their London rivals by going ahead again with Harry Forrester's penalty on 73 minutes.