Trey Charles’ 20th league goal of the season failed to propel St Neots Town towards the automatic safety spots after their home stalemate. 

Charles pounced when Liam Hook’s corner was not cleared by Gresley Rovers on February 25, before the visitors levelled before half-time in this Northern Premier League Division One Midlands battle. 

Although St Neots enjoyed most of possession, they failed to seriously test the back line of Rovers, who countered Charles’ opener through a 25-yard strike from Dominic Perkins.

St Neots started brightly in the second half when Manny Osei was twice denied, and thought they won a penalty when Charles was brought down in the penalty box. 

But appeals were dismissed and the Gresley defence stood firm to stop the lively Dan Barton from helping his team towards a seventh league victory of the campaign. 

St Neots sit in 18th place, three points above the automatic relegation places and five points adrift of 16th-placed Rovers. 

Pete Gill’s men return to the Premier Plus Stadium when they entertain Harborough Town on March 4, 3pm.