Lloyd Allinson though was the busier of the 'keepers. At least three times he was called into action, denying Sean Cooke, Malkin & Mwsalie. Cooke also seeing an effort from a well worked corner routine blocked by Simon Russell on the goal line. Trinity had a couple of efforts too, the pick of them a George Green free-kick from 25 yards that had Greg Hall scampering across his line to tip behind for a corner.

In a game where chances were at a premium, Billy Chadwick had the better chances of the second period, for the Holy Blues. At either end of the second half, Chadwick ghosted past defenders, before seeing his poked effort draw a smart save low down at the ‘keepers left post. The second, saw the on-loan Hull man strike the upright in the 91st minute, after a spritely burst into the box left the Dabbers' defence stood watching. With Greg Hall rooted to the spot, Chadwick looked on as his effort cannoned back into play.

Deep into stoppage time, the Dabbers were reduced to ten men, when Callum Saunders was shown a straight red card, for stamping on Will Thornton, but there was not enough time for Gainsborough to find a winner, with no goal to add to the festive cheer.

The Teams

Gainsborough Trinity: Lloyd Allinson, James Williamson, Jamie Green, Billy Chadwick, Will Thornton, Nathan Stainfield, George Green (Ross Hannah 82) Shane Clarke (Liam King 77) Declan Bacon, Simon Russell, Mitchell Dunne (Curtis Morrison 66). Subs not used: Joe Maguire and Michal Antkowiak (GK).

Gainsborough Bookings: James Williamson and George Green (Fouls)

Nantwich Town: Greg Hall, Luke Offord, Matty Devine, Joseph Davis, Josh Langley, Joel Stair, James Lawrie, Casper Hughes (David Webb 46') Joe Malkin (Ricardo Fuller 60), Sean Cooke, Joe Mwsalie (Callum Saunders 83). Subs not used: Will Saxon and Troy Bourne

Nantwich Bookings: Joel Stair (Retaliation) Joe Davis (Foul)
Sent Off: Callum Saunders (Serious Foul Play)

Attendance: 444