Chesterfield were denied what would have been a fourth win in six matches after Crawley Town struck in stoppage time to secure a 1-1 draw at the Broadfield Stadium.
The Spireites looked set to continue their strong run of form and strengthen their play-off push after Liam Mandeville’s first-half strike had put Paul Cook’s side in control. However, a dramatic late equaliser from Crawley captain Jay Williams ensured the points were shared.
Chesterfield dominated much of the opening period and created the clearer chances. Lee Bonis went close early on, while Chey Dunkley headed over when well placed. Dilan Markanday was also denied in a one-on-one situation by Crawley goalkeeper Jacob Chapman as the visitors piled on the pressure.
The breakthrough arrived just before the interval. Mandeville found space inside the area and fired a precise effort into the roof of the net to give Chesterfield a deserved lead heading into half-time.
Crawley, who had struggled for goals in recent weeks, offered little attacking threat during the first half. Danilo Orsi had their best early opportunity, but his effort was blocked by the legs of Spireites goalkeeper Zach Hemming.
After the break, Chesterfield continued to look the more dangerous side. Dylan Duffy and substitute Will Grigg both had chances to extend the advantage, but neither could find the finishing touch that would have put the game beyond reach.
Crawley’s best opportunity came 12 minutes from time when Ronan Darcy struck the outside of the post, providing a warning sign of what was to come.
With the game deep into added time and Chesterfield seemingly moments away from claiming all three points, Crawley found a late leveller. Darcy delivered a cross into the box and Williams rose to head home from close range, ending the hosts’ four-match run without a goal and breaking Spireites hearts in the process.
Despite the frustration of conceding so late, Chesterfield remain firmly in the play-off picture and will look to bounce back quickly as the promotion race continues.
