Kendal Town more than matched title-chasing Bury AFC in a 1-1 draw at Mossley.
They did need some big saves from goalkeeper James Hoskins in the last five minutes but generally Kendal had been as good as their high-flying opponents.
Seel Park, Mossley is the latest temporary home for Bury but over 1,200 watched the contest.
Kendal chairman Michael O’Neill said: “It made for a brilliant atmosphere and the players certainly enjoyed the experience.
“’Bury are going for the title and we are not, but if we had played consistently like that throughout the season we would have been up there as well.”
Tom Kilifin, who is the leading scorer in the Premier Division, notched his 30th goal of the season to give Kendal a flying start after 14 minutes.
Kendal were particularly impressive early on but it was Bury who finished the half stronger and after 30 minutes drew level with a strong finish from Lewis Gilboy.
He is Bury’ top scorer with 20 goals so far this season.
Bury had their moments, too, in the second half with the dangerous Steve Yawson going close and Kilifin missing a great opportunity for goal number 31.
But it was Bury who finished strongest and if it had not been for Kendal keeper Hoskins they would have won the game.
Manager Jimmy Marshall added: “I’m a little disappointed that we didn’t win the game. We had a goal disallowed and nobody knows why while both Steve (Yawson) and Killer (Tom Kilifin) missed with one-on-ones.
“But it was a proper football match with a great crowd and I really enjoyed being part of it .”
For the first time in a while Kendal will have no mid-week game so will train on Thursday ahead of Saturday’s home game against West Didsbury and Chorlton.
