John Coleman was pleased with his side’s performance as they drew 2-2 with Stevenage despite playing with 10 men for 88 minutes.

Nicky Hunt was sent off just two minutes into the game for an altercation with Charlie Lee, but Sean Maguire gave the Reds the lead.

Simon Walton equalised from the penalty spot for the visitors, only for Maguire to strike again and restore the advantage.

Stanley were unable to hold on for the win, though, as Chris Beardsley converted from close-range just before stoppage time at the end of the second half.

Nonetheless, Coleman was pleased with the endeavour and effort showed by his team.

“The players were fantastic,” he said. “Their players have come off the pitch and told us how well we played and that we were miles better than them and that’s a testament to how well we played.

“It’s just disappointing to concede at the end, especially as we had chances to make it 3-1.

“Lloyd [Jones] is upset about the first goal – it was a silly penalty to give away – but we’ve shown great character to get back in front.

“From there, we didn’t really come under much pressure except for a couple of long-range efforts. You have to give them credit for their goal: it was a good header and a tidy finish.”

On Hunt’s red card, the manager did not see the incident, but did cast doubt over the reports that the defender had punched an opponent.

“Anyone who knows Nicky knows he isn’t a violent person. He’s an experienced professional and he’s not going to punch someone within two minutes of a game,” said the Reds boss.