Stags looked set to taste defeat as Barnsley took a 2-1 lead into six minutes of injury time but McLaughlin’s late effort salvaged a hard-fought point after a plucky second half performance all round.
A first half goal from David McGoldrick put Barnsley ahead early on and disaster struck after the break when Liam Roberts fumbled a Reds shot to concede a second.
A penalty just before the hour mark put Stags back in the action as Lucas Akins converted from the spot. As Stags pushed on, their efforts eventually materialised thanks to McLaughlin’s late leveller.
Here are our player ratings from Mansfield Town’s 2-2 draw against Barnsley at the One Call.
13. Elliott Hewitt - 6
Provided a fresh injection of creativity in the second half with some good balls into the box to try and create chances. Photo: UGC
14. Will Evans - 6.5
Had some of the Stags' best chances in the second half. Two big opportunities to turn the ball in but couldn't find the end product. Photo: UGC
15. Nathan Moriah-Welsh - 6.5
Made an immediate impact after replacing George Abbott by winning the penalty early in the second half. Refreshed things massively as a whole. Photo: UGC