Stockport manager Dave Challinor claimed his side played better in their 1-1 draw against Bristol Rovers than in any of their five previous League One matches, all of which the Hatters won.
A stoppage-time header from on-loan centre-back Sil Swinkels with just 180 seconds left to play denied Challinor’s side a sixth straight victory that looked the likeliest outcome as the visitors restricted the hosts to just one other shot on target.
Stockport’s Isaac Olaofe had opened the scoring when he knocked home the rebound after Kyle Wootton’s stab at goal from Jack Dimaond’s low cross had hit a post.
But County could not hold on, with Challinor ruing his side losing concentration in the final moments of the game.
“It’s the manner of the goal that we conceded and goes alongside what I’ve said in recent weeks about us taking care of our performance,” he said.
“We’ve not got what we deserved tonight but the performance was miles better in my opinion than the previous five that have got us five wins.
“Sometimes that’s how football works. Of course there’s going to be a disappointment in how we’ve conceded the goal and how late we’ve conceded with us having real control – and the control element is really important.
“We were much, much better today so that was a real positive.
“If we’re being critical we would say that we should get the second goal and then one mistake doesn’t cost you points,” he added.
Bristol Rovers head coach Inigo Calderon paid tribute to goalscorer Swinkels who had come on for his debut for Rovers in the 70th minute for midfielder Isaac Hutchinson.
Villa defender Swinkels, 21, a transfer deadline-day capture, then marked his debut with the late equaliser, meeting Matt Butcher’s excellent inswinging free-kick from Rovers’ right flank.
“I was happy with the first half, but not that happy with the second half, but at the same time you have to give credit (to Stockport) and understand the position that we are facing today,” he said.
“They’re a really good side and especially after they scored. They killed the game. The game was played the way they wanted and it was difficult for us.
“I’m really happy with the progression of the team. Against one of the best teams at set-pieces we scored a set-piece.
“I was so happy for him (Sil) and you could see by the way he jumped to survey the goal – it was good for a young player to score as he comes to a new club, the best thing you could ask for. Credit to him, and the players for welcoming him.”
