Spalding take the lead. Pic: Pamela Mullins

Chasetown FC’s play off bid stalled slightly with a draw at mid-table Spalding United while promotion rivals Lincoln United won 4-0 against Newcastle Town.

Spalding take the lead. Pic: Pamela Mullins
Spalding take the lead. Pic: Pamela Mullins

The Scholars went behind after five minutes with Neal Spafford rising above the visiting defence from a corner to flick a header beyond John Bateman.

In a scrappy affair of little chances, Chasetown levelled three minutes before half time. Paul Sullivan’s free kick into the box was into the path of Danny Edwards who stuck out a leg to divert the ball past wrong-footed goalkeeper Michael Duggan.

Chris Slater battles for the ball in the air. Pic: Pamela Mullins
Chris Slater battles for the ball in the air. Pic: Pamela Mullins

There weren’t many clear cut chances after the break either. The Scholars edged the game territorially though and Henry Eze flicked a header just over the bar from a long Rhys Thompson throw in.

Five minutes from time, it was the same combination between Thompson and Eze and this time the effort was on target and Duggan scurried back to catch the ball on his line.

In stoppage time, substitute Nick Turton embarked on a mazy run outside the area and got a shot away, but unfortunately for the striker his effort was straight at Duggan and the points were shared.

The play-offs are still in Chasetown’s hands though. Despite Lincoln opening up a three point and three goal advantage, the Scholars still have to travel to Lincoln on the final day of the season. Rugby Town, who are the other main contender for fifth place have to play Chasetown then Lincoln United in their next two games.

Chasetown: Bateman, Williams, Thompson, Slater, Eze, Dance, Washbourne (Adaggio, 77 mins), R Davies (Brown, 48 mins), Hemagou (Turton, 58 mins), Sullivan, Edwards. Sub not used: Pond.