The Lions returned to the Town Ground looking to build on their hard-earned point at Clay Cross in midweek. Timson, who picked up an injury in that game, was replaced in the starting line-up by Thompson. Heanor, otherwise, were unchanged for the visit of Hucknall Town.

An early succession of corners in the opening five minutes showed great intent from the Lions, as Adebowale in the Hucknall net responded nervously to this opening salvo.

However, the game settled into an even rhythm, with Heanor just edging possession in the first half-hour. Then, in the 34th minute, Sacha Markelic continued his recent run of goal-scoring form. The ball was delivered from the right, where Markelic was able to control it and guide a composed finish into the net, putting Heanor in front at the break.

Early in the second half, Heanor made a tactical change, bringing on Cheetham for Thompson. This involved Tudgay switching to right wing back, where he has been so effective in the last few games. This switch created a couple of chances for the Lions, the best involving Markelic, who robbed a Hucknall defender and stormed into the area. Unselfishly, he attempted to find Sleigh, but the final ball was blocked, leaving Heanor frustrated.

Hucknall made the home side pay for these missed chances, however, on the hour mark, as a long ball caught Heanor out and Sam Brown was penalised for his challenge in the area, resulting in a penalty for the visitors. This was calmly converted by Ebede, sending Pierrepont the wrong way.

With both sides sensing the game was there to be won, the match exploded into life in the final ten minutes. Firstly, in the 82nd minute, Trent Jules was sent off for a second bookable offence, leaving Hucknall with ten men.

Heanor began to pile on the pressure and in the 85th minute, Mason Tudgay provided the late winner. He found space on the left, received the ball from a free-kick, drove into the area and applied a smart finish into the bottom corner.

Before Hucknall had time to kick-off, they went down to nine players as their goalscorer, Ebede, was sent to the sin-bin.

Heanor managed the final few moments of the game and ran out deserved winners, taking the three points. This extended their run to six unbeaten, of which five games ended in victory. Next week the Second Qualifying Round of the FA Vase awaits, as they are at home to Clifton All-Whites.