Portsmouth were given another promotion boost without kicking a ball on Tuesday evening.
Bolton Wanderers travelled to South Yorkshire to face an in-form Barnsley side that has gatecrashed the automatic promotion race.
With both teams in reach of the top two, a draw was favourable on the South Coast to keep the chasing pack at arm’s length.
The Tykes appeared to be on track to continue their excellent recent form as goals from John McAtee and Donovan Pines thrust Neill Collins’ side into a 2-0 lead.
However, Bolton halved the deficit through Victor Adeboyejo before late drama ensued at Oakwell.
The Trotters were awarded a 98th-minute penalty, which was missed by Josh Sheehan. Luckily for Wanderers, Randell Williams arrived quickest on the follow-up to earn Ian Evatt’s side a vital point.
The draw takes Bolton into the automatic promotion places, six points adrift of Portsmouth.
Barnsley sit nine points off the league leaders, having played one fewer game.
Overall, it was a successful night for the Blues, and Eric Eisner has since reacted to the late drama in South Yorkshire.
Portsmouth: Eric Eisner reacts to League One drama
Taking to X, Eisner said: “Big late late, late goal. Was rooting for that draw. Keep focusing on our own fate but hopefully the results around the league continue to go our way as well. Big game Saturday. Away at Blackpool never easy. Need to bring our A game. Let’s go!”
Up next is a tough-looking trip to Blackpool. The Blues haven’t beaten the Seasiders since 2018 and have endured a tough recent record against Saturday’s opposition.
A point would be an excellent return ahead of a winnable home game against Burton Albion on Tuesday evening.
John Mousinho has a couple of selection headaches to contend with, particularly in midfield. Myles Peart-Harris started in a deeper-lying role against Oxford United and endured a mixed afternoon.
A return to the starting XI for Owen Moxon could also be on the cards after he was rested during the 2-1 win over Des Buckingham’s side. Zak Swanson is also an option after Mousinho earmarked the right-back for a central midfield role.
New signing Lee Evans is unlikely to feature, with next weekend’s clash against Peterborough United more probable.