EVESHAM United stopped the rot with a hard-earned point at Winchester City as the sides shared the spoils for the first time in 12 encounters.
The 1-1 draw in Hampshire ended a run of four Southern League Division One South defeats for the Robins, but an 85th-minute equaliser deprived them of two points and leaves them tenth.
With Evesham five points away from the final play-off place having played more games than the sides around them, victory at Mangotsfield United on Saturday appears crucial.
Evesham appeared on course for victory at their then third-placed hosts on Saturday through Paul Sullivan’s 35th-minute goal, only for Rob Carr to restore parity five minutes from time.
Carr forced United keeper Lochie Robertson into a smart early save and the same player then fired over the bar, but Evesham hit back as the first half progressed and Sullivan spurned a good headed chance before Lee Chilton had a strike saved.
However, the breakthrough arrived when Sullivan thundered a rasping strike into the net from long range.
Evesham were also impressive in the second half as they produced a performance full of strength and character, having clearly understood boss Carl Abbott’s demand for more resilience.
Clearcut chances were at a premium for both sides, although the hosts’ Oli Bailey had a shot saved before Carr levelled matters with another fine long-range goal.