Rumarn Burrell was on target as Burton claimed the point they needed to secure League One safety in their penultimate match of the season following a 1-1 draw with Wigan at Pirelli Stadium.
The striker’s 11th goal of the campaign looked to have given Albion all three points until Ronan Darcy curled in an effort from distance in the closing moments of second-half stoppage time to claim a share of the spoils.
The hosts were all but secure ahead of the game – courtesy of their goal difference – but their point confirmed relegation for both Crawley and Bristol Rovers ahead of the final weekend of the season.
The first half was lacking in clear goal attempts from either side. Albion started positively but could not fashion a clear chance on Sam Tickle’s goal.
Charlie Webster – on his return from suspension – had Albion’s best sight of goal as he burst through onto Finn Delap’s pass but fired over the top.
Wigan, the lowest scorers in the division, threatened from a series of corners late in the half but the home side defended doggedly.
Their best chance fell to former Burton winger Jonny Smith, who fired straight at goalkeeper Max Crocombe.
But Burton got the goal they craved just shy of the hour mark. Saturday’s hero Dylan Williams supplied the cross, substitute Mason Bennett forced an outstanding save from Tickle, but leading scorer Burrell was on hand to bury the rebound.
Dale Taylor twice went close to an equaliser as he fired a rising drive over the crossbar before forcing a good save from Crocombe.
Darcy finally got the better of Albion’s keeper with a speculative effort from almost the last kick of the game.
