Chester secured their League Two status with a point against Stockport, sending Mansfield down in the process.
Point against Stockport enough for Blues
Chester secured their League Two status with a point against Stockport, sending Mansfield down to the Conference in the process.
Simon Davies' side already had a three-point cushion over the struggling Stags and have now made it four with just one game of the season remaining.
But they were indebted to a stunning late save from goalkeeper John Danby, who was forced into a double block to deny Tony Pilkington, who met Tommy Rowe's cross with a powerful header from just seven yards out.
Danby also had to be alert in stoppage time as Rowe tried his luck with a 25-yard free-kick, with the Chester No.1 again equal to the task.
Stockport had earlier seen substitute Adam Proudlock, brought on in the first half after an injury to Liam Dickinson, twice denied when one-on-one with Danby.
Proudlock also felt he should have had a penalty after being brought down in the area by Mark Hughes, but the referee waved play on.
The final whistle sparked wild celebrations at the Deva Stadium, but brought an end to Mansfield's 77-year stay in the Football League.
