45th goal of season for international

They are six points behind leaders Hampton — surprisingly beaten 3-2 at home by Coventry — and three points off Stratford, who currently occupy the second promotion spot.

Goals from Ben Lamb and top marksman Damian Jarzembowski either side of half-time looked to have secured the win for the home side, before Boots rallied and grabbed a late equaliser.

Captain Christian Battye said: “I’m happy with a point, especially after last week, but it’s yet another lead that we have let slip and it could prove costly.

“For some reason our workrate in the second half didn’t match the first and in the end a draw was the right result.

“Realistically we are relying on the top three sides taking points off each other, but there is a way to go yet and we can still do it.”

An excellent first half display had seemingly put the home side on course for a much-needed win after stuttering somewhat since the winter break.

Boosted by the return of Josh Brocklehurst and the industrious Johnny Hancock, Chesterfield played with a purpose that was absent in the defeat at Coalville the previous week.

A penalty corner routine created the chance for Lamb’s deflected shot to loop over the keeper for the breakthrough.

In a close second half the visitors fought back with Chesterfield forced to play on the break.

Chesterfield doubled their lead against the run of play through Polish international Jarzembowski, who twisted and turned his man before firing a backhand shot low into the net for his 45th goal of the season.

However, Boots rallied and despite the best efforts of Chesterfield stopper Matt Lloyd — including a contender for save of the season — the hosts could not hold on for the win.