FC UNITED'S title dreams were left in tatters last night after a shock draw with Unibond First Division North strugglers Woodley Sports at Gigg Lane.
The Rebels went into the clash with the Stockport side five points behind leaders Bradford Park Avenue knowing three points from their game in hand would take the race to Saturday's final day.
But a speculative 68th minute lob from way out on the left wing by Jamie Kay left FC United contemplating next Tuesday's play-off semi final tie.
Striker Jerome Wright grabbed a fine last-minute equaliser, but it just was not enough.
The point gives Woodley some much-needed breathing space in their battle, with Bridlington Town, to avoid relegation.
Woodley could have gone in front eight minutes before the break when striker Andy Farrell saw a close- range volley bravely blocked by home skipper Dave Chadwick.
They were forced onto the back foot again early in the second period, as FC United increased their intensity, but weathered the storm.
2 Liam Foster
3 Bradley Howard
4 Jamie Baguley
5 David Chadwick(captain)
6 Rob Nugent
7 Adam Carden
8 Chris Baguley
9 Nick Robinson
10 Jerome Wright
11 Rory Patterson
Subs Used
12 Simon Carden(for 7, 53 mins)
14 James Holden(for 4, 86 mins)
15
Attendance 1859
Carden 41, Baguley 49 Rushton 20,Foster 89