In a scrappy, physical game, Stags had soaked up all the home side had to offer and led through a Lucas Akins penalty as the game went past the six added minutes that had been indicated.
But then a series of refereeing decisions went against them as Ryan Sweeney was ordered off after a bang to the head, Stevenage grabbed an equaliser from a drop ball the visitors felt they should not have been given and Louis Reed was red-carded for his protests in a fiery finish to the contest.
Here are our player ratings from the game . . .
9. OLIVER IROW 6
A decent full debut, he put over a couple of dangerous first half crosses. Got away with a risky backpass at one stage. Was muscled out a couple of times and walked away from a nasty lunging tackle from Jordan Roberts as he continues his senior first team learning curve. Subbed on 67 minutes. Photo: Chris Holloway
10. AARON LEWIS 6
Gave everything but struggled to get into a game in which the ball often flew over midfield. Was withdraw for Elliott Hewitt on 83 minutes. Photo: Chris Holloway
11. RHYS OATES 6
Was given few chances to tear Stevenage apart. Went on one good run, cutting in from the right, but fired over the top at the end. Best moment came with a moment of skill in the box that drew the penalty kick. Replaced by Frazer Blake-Tracy on 83 minutes. Photo: Chris Holloway
12. REGAN HENDRY 6
(For Russell 58 minutes) More minutes under his belt after injury. Was booked for dissent. Photo: Alex Livesey