​Boss positive despite Hucknall being denied by goalkeeper's equaliser

​Hucknall looked to have the three points wrapped up thanks to goals from Brad Wells and Solace Uyi-Olaye, but strikes in the 92nd and 97th minutes saw Ashby steal a point – the second goal scored by goalkeeper Alex Kelly as he came forward for a last-gasp set piece.

And whilst the manner of the draw disappointed Whitman, he was still pleased with how his side had played for the majority of the game.

He said: “The game with Ashby was probably the best we’ve played so far this season at times.

"We dominated the ball throughout and showed more intent in the final third which saw us create a number of opportunities by getting in behind and from wide areas. This saw us take a two-goal lead into the last ten minutes.

"Sadly we were not able to secure what would have been a really pleasing victory when we conceded two late goals, one coming when we were down to nine men and then in the final minute, another wide free-kick saw their keeper equalise.

"But there are lots of positives to take into Saturday's FA Vase game away to Lutterworth where hopefully we can continue our run into the next round.”

Last weekend, Hucknall had been beaten 3-1 at home by Boston Town, the second defeat to Boston in the space of a week.

Whitman added: "It was a tough match. The visitors caused problems from the outset with a direct approach, using long balls and long throws to their advantage. We found it difficult to cope with that threat and conceded twice, just before and after half time.

"After the break, the performance improved noticeably. We began to look more competitive, kept the ball better, and created openings of our own. We pulled a goal back from the penalty spot but Boston extended their lead again and to add to the frustration, we suffered another injury which leaves the squad stretched.”

Hucknall now head to Lutterworth on Saturday in the FA Vase, their hosts currently lying tenth in UCL Premier South.