Shildon midfielder Sam Hodgson changed all that with a 78th-minute free-kick from just inside the halfway line. Spotting home ‘keeper Preston Leech off his line, he executed his delivery perfectly into the top corner.

Defeat was hard to take for Northallerton, who threw the kitchen sink at the visitors during a storming finale but their best efforts flew narrowly wide.

Manager Jason Newall had the ever-dependable Josh Allen back in defence and switched teenager Kenzie Harker to left midfield, with Tafari Nicholas reverting to the bench, in the only changes from the victory at North Shields.

Shildon dominated possession in the first period and experienced striker Billy Greulich-Smith had a couple of opportunities to put his side ahead, notably when he smacked a shot on to the bar after half an hour. Town looked dangerous on the counter-attack, with skipper Liam Darville having a shot saved by ‘keeper Kieran Hunter.

Neither side was able to wrestle the initiative and it looked to be heading for a draw until Hodgson produced his wonder free-kick. On came Harry Croft to give the Shildon defence something new to think about and Town threw everyone forward in an attempt to rescue a point.

A lovely exchange between Nicholas and full-back Jonny Haase represented their final charge into the area, but Hunter made a good save.

Northallerton Town: Leech, Dale, Haase, Darville, Harwood, J Allen, Stapley (Kitching 81), Walker, A Banks (Croft 78), Sayer (Nicholas 46), Harker (Tew 73).

Sub not used: Martin.

Shildon: Hunter, M Allen, C Banks, Hodgson, Marriott, Price, Harris, Weirs, Ardelean (Reay 11), Greulich-Smith (56), Spalding.

Subs not used: Houlahan, Greenwood.

Att: 202.

Man of the Match: Liam Darville (sponsored by Darville Academy of Irish Dancing).