Spalding were in front from when Joe Curtis headed the ball in ten minutes before half-time, it came after Belper ‘keeper Mark Rathbone had tipped Jamie Thurlbourn’s corner onto the crossbar.

Both sides had their best chances in the opening ten minutes, James Tricks’ close range effort was well saved by Rathbone but Michael Duggan out did him in the United goal, tipping Alex Steadman’s volley round the post.

Rathbone was making only his second start in goal for the Nailers, his first coming way back in September against Goole.

Rob Stevenson returned to the starting line-up after six weeks out with a hamstring injury, he did make a brief return last week in the defeat to Carlton but only as a substitute.

Ben Watkis also made a return to Charlie Palmer’s side, injury has kept him out of the Nailers last three games.

It was a game of very few clear cut chances with both teams languishing in mid-table come the end of this season.

Tricks collected a driven cross from Thurlbourne but his shot on the turn just flew over the bar, without worrying Nailers stopper, Rathbone.

Steadman had one final chance for the Nailers five minutes from time, he chased Jonathan Williams’ long ball but could only hook the ball over whilst under pressure from United centre-half Sam Murphy.

Recent signing Matt Richards came on at half-time to replace Brad Wells, he showed some nice touches but failed to have any real impact on the game.

The Nailers are back in action on Easter Monday as they travel to promotion hopefuls Shaw Lane Aquaforce, with the Tulips hosting Lincoln United to complete the busy Easter schedule.

Belper Town: Rathbone (GK), Bryant, Keenan (Allen 77’), Watkis, Palmer, Parker, Stevenson, Graves (Capt.), Wells (Richards 45’), Williams (O’Brien 85’), Steadman. Unused subs: Constable, Butcher.

Spalding United: Duggan (GK), Walker, Jackson, Murphy, Stainfield (Capt.), Lawlor, Banister, Curtis, Walmsley, Tricks (Lockie 86’), Thurlbourne (Kadar 77’). Unused subs: Humble, Spafford, Talbot (GK)

Attendance: 213

Referee: Joe Clark (Walsall)