In-form Town hauled their way back into this enthralling contest after conceding an early goal and threw bodies on the line to protect a deserved second-half lead. But Rangers equalised with virtually the last kick of the game.

Jason Newall’s side put in one of their best performances of the season against the Teessiders to follow up their goalless draw with fellow play-off contenders Newcastle Blue Star. Their energy and commitment were hugely impressive and fans don’t want this campaign to end.

Comfortably safe from relegation, it could be argued they have little left to play for – but Northallerton’s players have gelled into a remarkably effective unit and are on a mission to show what a good side they are.

They made a bright start, with young Dan Dryden heading just over the top from a corner. Nathan Stephenson was also narrowly off-target with a long-range effort as Town took the game to their visitors.

But it was Rangers who seized the early advantage after 12 minutes. ‘Keeper Callum Dobson punched away a corner only to see striker Owen Burns turn the loose ball into the net.

Town rallied well and Dryden had a snapshot saved by Rangers ‘keeper Alex Baird before they equalised in the 32nd minute. The irrepressible Jack Stapley, who played one of his best games for Northallerton, was tripped in the area by full-back Steve Keenan and it was left to Nathan Stephenson to convert the spot-kick.

The home side took the lead through Terry Galbraith’s brilliantly disguised free-kick just outside the box after 62 minutes. With the entire Rangers defence preparing for a cross into the goalmouth, the defender spotted a gap just inside the near post and duly planted the ball out of ‘keeper Baird’s reach.

Rangers looked even more rattled when Stephenson hit a post from another free-kick outside the box eight minutes later. The visitors threw men forward in search of an equaliser but found the Northallerton defence a tough nut to crack.

However, with just seconds left on the clock, substitute Spencer Walker stabbed home the goal that earned Rangers a point.

Northallerton Town: Dobson, Dale, Cocks, Darville, Harwood, Galbraith, Stapley, Walker, Dryden (Tew 48), Stephenson, Hume (Croft 80).

Subs not used: Coatsworth, Nicholas, Banks.

Boro Rangers: Baird, Keenan (Hawkins 80), MacCarthy (Walker 75), Thompson (Liddell 83), Lovatt, Hall, Lamb (Hickman 70), Turner, Rose, Burns, Guy (Goodman 79).

Man of the Match: Jack Stapley.

Att: 222.