Atherstone were left bemoaning the defensive lapse which let in Grantham for a second half equaliser.

United, for whom victory would have hoisted them into second place behind Nuneaton, began in lack lustre fashion but eventually found a way through in the 36th minute.

Lee Middleton threaded a perfect pass through to Leon Kelly who coolly shot beneath the diving goalkeeper.

But the home side drew level three minutes into the second half when United failed to cut out a long ball. Kirk Jackson got in front of both Nigel Niblett and Mark Albrighton to drill the ball firmly past goalkeeper Dale Belford.

United were then on the rack and twice cleared off the line as they desperately defended a draw.