Spalding RFC were unable to rip up the Midlands Two East (North) form book as they slipped to a 25-7 defeat at promotion hopefuls Ashbourne on Saturday.
Town, who remain three points above relegation rivals Mansfield, have now played one more game than the Nottinghamshire side – who occupy the last spot in the drop zone.
The Elephants have just five games left to ensure they avoid back-to-back relegations, stating with a home date against high-flying West Bridgford next Saturday (2.15pm).
See www.spaldingvoice.co.uk early next week for a full report.
RESULTS
Midlands Two East (N): Ashbourne 25 Spalding 7; Bakewell Mannerians 11 Southwell 12; West Bridgford 41 Stamford 16.