Craig Priest writes...

It seems like an eternity since I last wrote anything regarding a game, this adverse weather certainly takes it toll and for once, it’s not just Stags who will be itching for action either, tomorrow night’s hosts Hereford last in action on January 12th when they drew 3-3 with Alfreton.

Both sides will naturally be itching to get back out and play some competitive football with postponements, other teams cup commitments and the adverse weather taking its toll on not only the fixture calendar but the two sides training schedules. For me it will be about who shows the most hunger tomorrow night as both sides will have different approaches, Hereford for instance may feel the anguish of a long lay-off and be eager to get back to winning ways having drawn there last three, whilst Stags as we know will be eager to keep their improving form up having collected two back to back away wins in there last two outings, victories which add to a total of four consecutive away wins in the Blue Square Premier.

Both sides have had behind closed doors practise games to attempt to keep the players fresh, Stags on top against Notts County on Thursday, however practise games are no substitute for proper competitive action and as such, I hope Stags remain sharp and focussed as they kick off a busy period of fixtures as they have Dartford, Barrow, Newport, Cambridge, Hyde, Luton and Lincoln to face in the next 30 days.

February could prove to be a real key month for Stags ambitions and whilst I wish to look no further than tomorrow night’s game at Hereford, I can’t help but wonder what a positive February would do to our season, the years shortest month has an influx of games and if we can go into with another victory, momentum can take us forwards. 

It seems like an eternity since we had a home game, perhaps the postponement of the Nuneaton game, which now takes place in March, will be of benefit. Yes it meant that with the Wrexham game also being off due to their FA Trophy exploits we’ve had extra rest and extra time without a game, but it also means we’re on the road again – a place that we’re seemingly at home with and are taking in our stride – what was once the poorest away form in the division has sprung to a top ten standing – tomorrow it comes up against a side that aren’t enjoying the home comforts, Hereford’s last home victory coming in November when they beat (according to the over reaction on twitter “the greatest conference side ever”) Luton 1-0. 


Hopefully tomorrow will see Stags focussed on the task in hand at a ground last visited by a Stags side in 2008, the line up for me should remain the same despite the encouraging performances of individuals in that Notts County run out last Thursday – consistency is key, focus also – Stags must start from the very first whistle as in truth, despite getting two victories, they have started poorly against Stockport, who missed two golden early efforts including a penalty, and Southport, who grabbed a 7th minute lead.

The Stags and The Bulls last locked horns on September 29th, Martin Foyles side putting an end to four consecutive home wins for Stags as the Bulls took home a point as Marlon Jackson’s early finish was cancelled out by Exodus Geohaghon prior to the break in what was the sides first ever meeting outside of the Football League following Hereford’s relegation the previous season.

Stags and Hereford have done battle numerous times over the years though, tomorrow’s meeting the 33rd meeting in all competitions – a partnership which first began in 1972 – Stags on top with 13 wins to 11, eight draws have also been played out.

Whoever nets the first goal between the pair tomorrow will have scored the 90th goal between the pair who have played out only two goalless draws, Stags again lead the charts having netted 51 to Hereford’s 38.

Mansfield have had less luck at Edgar Street though and it’s actually Hereford who lead the charts with seven wins to six defeats, Mansfield’s last victory at Edgar Street coming in January 2007 as Stags began life without Ritchie Barker with his replacements Martin Gritton and Barry Conlon both netting either side of a Micky Boulding effort in a 3-1 win – this the Stags last victory over the Bulls.

Stags could welcome back defender Exodus Geohaghon tomorrow night following his hamstring injury, however his fellow defender Ryan Tafazolli is unlikely to feature as he’s only just returned to training following a prolonged injury. Ross Dyer will also miss out along with Jake Speight, the former though is making another step towards recovery as he’s set to start running this week.

Jamie Tolley could also be in contention although by my reckoning his ‘mini pre-season’ is only a week old, he tweeted he’s to complete two weeks before playing some reserve football to win his shirt – fellow midfielder Jamie Hand remains at former club Hayes & Yeading Utd who have extended his loan by a further month.

Hereford boss Martin Foyle will be without influential midfielder Harry Pell whose clocked up 30 appearances this term as he looks likely to be joining AFC Wimbledon in the coming days, the Bulls boss however could hand debuts to young defender Rod McDonald who makes the move from Nathwich and Port Vale loan man Kingsley James.

If you’re not making the trip to Edger Street then join me for full match commentary from 7pm on 106.9FM and via our MM-LIVE Page.

Get involved in the show as we ask, should Stags make any further movement in the transfer market, if so in which direction, who and why? Tweet us via @mtfcmatters or text the show on 07804 15 66 37 (Texts cost your standard network rate, if your under 16 please get the bill payers permission).

If you are making the trip and want some extra details, then click here to read our travel page. 

The views expressed in this blog are those of the writer and not those of Mansfield Matters or its related organisations – to submit a blog email mtfcmatters@gmail.com    

Date: Tuesday 29th January 2013


Opponent: Hereford United


Kick Off Time: 7:45pm


Venue: Edgar Street Athletic Ground, Blackfriars Street, Hereford, HR4 9JU

Distance from the One Call Stadium:
123 miles

Estimated Travelling Time:
Two hours, 25 minutes

General Directions:
As Stags make their first trip to Edger Street since March 2008, supporters should head out towards the M1 and take the southbound carriageway, merging onto the A42 at junction 23A. Continue for 15miles before joining the M42 at Junction 11, keeping in the right hand lane at junction 4A, five miles past Hopwood Park Services to join the M5.  Leave the M5 at Junction 7 and take third exit of the roundabout onto the A44 before taking the first exit of the following roundabout to take the A4440. Continue forwards for four miles before, at first exit of the roundabout, joining the A4103, exiting at Ayleston Hill Roundabout 23 miles later onto the A465 Hereford. Turn left at the traffic lights to briefly take the A438 before joining, all be it briefly, the A49 via the second exit of the roundabout. Finally take a right turn onto Blackfriars Street where you will see the ground ahead.

By Train:
Depart From - Time & Train - Destination
Mansfield - 2.40pm -  Nottingham
Nottingham - 3.37pm Cross Country - Birmingham New Street
Birmingham New Street - 5.19pm London Midland - Hereford Station 

Edger Street is roughly a ten minute walk from Hereford Station and is well sign posted when you get past Morrisons.  



Food & Drink:
Edger Street has two bars, both of which welcome away supporters – The larger of the two ‘Addisons’ is located behind the  Merton Stand and boasts a wealth of popular hand-pulled ales and ciders. Other options include the Oxford Arms and the weather spoons in town where there are numerous food outlets including a popular and busy chip-shop.

Refreshments can also be purchased inside the stadium 

Where to sit & how much:
Stags fans will be offered a side view of the action at the showing age Edger Street, with visiting supporters now being housed in a small section of the Cargill Community Stand. A double tiered stand has seats in the upper tier which over hangs the lower tiered terracing which has some viewing restrictions due to the concrete supporting pillars.

Seating (Upper Tier) - Standing (Lower Tier)

Adult (21-59Yrs) £18 - £16

Concession (15-20Yrs / Over 60s) £15 - £12

Juniors (11-14Yrs) £7 - £5

Kids (10Yrs & Under) £5 - £3

Programme:


Hereford’s popular 52 Page match day publication ‘The Bull’ can be purchased for the bargain price of £2.50

Parking:
Adjacent to the stadium visiting supporters can park in the large ground floor car park which has a large number of spaces. Usually the cost is £1 all day however prices are null and void after 6pm – at last a reason to love a night time game!

SSA Travel:
TBC, contact the travel line on 07967 689 597 for more details.

Craig Priest & Emily Sykes write....

Fixture: Southport Vs Mansfield Town
Competition: Blue Square Bet Premier – Game #29
Venue: The Mersyrail Community Stadium (Haig Avenue)
Date & Time: Saturday 19th January 2013 – 3pm
Match Referee: Chris Kavanagh
Attendance: 804 (80)

Another three points collected on the road, wow how times have changed!  Yesterday was another example of Mansfield’s fighting spirit as they came behind at Southport to win 2-1, only the second time all season Stags have won a game after conceding the game’s first goal – If Paul Cox’s side can take this attitude and desire into Tuesday’s home game then who knows where our one game at a time climb could take us.

Too be fair Stags remained ice cool yesterday after conceding the first goal as Southport, a team with one defeat in five prior to the match, made a bright start – however the attitude of the players and the work rate too match helped negotiate Paul Cox’s side over the ice. The whole team deserves credit but I must note the performances of Ritchie Sutton and Luke Jones, both immense in the air – Adam Murray determined in the anchor man role, and most importantly, Lee Stevenson who for me ran the show.

Paul Cox has stated Junior Daniel was his man of the match, whilst the former Macclesfield man impressed yesterday, the positions Stevenson got into and some of the passes he played along with the vision he showed, were at the next level and without him I believe we wouldn’t have created so many chances – I hope Cox sticks with him for a while and lets the quality which saw so many teams chasing his signature last summer shine through for us now.   

There’s little left to be said about yesterday in honesty, there were some shaky moments as there are in every match, but another win on the road – our fourth consecutive away league wins, puts us back in a positive position and gives us confident ahead of the Nuneaton game on Tuesday, weather permitting – Stags certainly need to re-ignite there early season home form after three consecutive defeats at home, all-be-it one coming against Liverpool in the FA Cup.

Paul Cox stuck with what worked and named an unchanged side from the midweek trip to Stockport, despite Jamie Tolley being brought back out of the Quarry Club there was no sight of him, instead Andy Owens (on loan from Stags to Southport) provided the antics pre-match as he ran round in his Stags top and Southport shorts!

Line Up [4-2-3-1] Alan Marriott, Ritchie Sutton, John Dempster, Luke Jones, Lee Beevers, Adam Murray (C), Anthony Howell, Lindon Meikle, Lee Stevenson, Junior Daniel, Matt Green
Substitutes: John Thompson, Louis Briscoe, Nick Wright, Chris Clements, Matt Rhead

A small number of volunteers cleared the pitch of roughly an inch of snow prior to the game and watched on as the two sides locked horns, Stags registering the first effort on three minutes as Junior Daniel found space on the edge of the area, however the impressive wide man failed to make it two goals in as many games as he blazed widely into the terraced stand behind the goal.

The 804 supporters where beginning to enjoy the rather picturesque views of the surrounding fields sprinkled in snow when on six minutes an attempt for Mansfield to go forward was cut out by Karl Ledsham. Despite the best efforts of Murray, Southport can forward at a canter, Shaun Whalley collecting on the right hand side before turning onto his left foot, advancing into the area and striking powerfully beyond Marriott to give the hosts an early lead.

It took Stags a little while to respond but on 18 minutes they came agonisingly close, Lee Beevers’ cross after his initial throw finding Matt Green at the front post, the hit man’s header held well by Tony McMillan in the Southport goal.

A minute later though Mansfield were level as Lee Stevenson swept wide to the left hand side for Junior Daniel. Showing pace to beat full back Andy Parry, Daniel pulled square for the advancing Murray whose forceful initial shot was pushed away by Tony McMillan – the Stags captain showed desire and sprung forward quickly to latch onto the rebound, with McMillan grounded Murray lashed into the back of the net to put Mansfield back on level terms.    

Three minutes later Mansfield should of been ahead Stevenson again found Daniel, however this time the wide man was in a more central position an drilled a powerful low shot towards goal, McMillan springing down low to his right to keep out Daniel’s fierce effort. McMillan’s opposite number Marriott had little to do but was alert on 23 minutes to claim Alan Moogan’s curling effort.

Anthony Howell was next to register an effort for the Stags however he couldn’t keep down his 24th minute effort, two minutes later Adam Murray’s corner caused danger before Junior Daniel curled wide of the target.

Ritchie Sutton was alert on the half hour mark as Steven Tames tried his luck, the remainder of the half pretty much belonged to Mansfield as Matt Green, Lee Stevenson, John Dempster and Junior Daniel all came close to adding a second for the Stags – as it were the Stags went in at the break at level terms.

HALF TIME: Southport 1-1 Stags

The hosts made a change at the break as they looked to liven things up, Michael Bakare looked to pressure Lee Beevers with numerous runs however they were well matched with stern tackles from the Stags left back.

On 54 minutes Stags pressured well down the right hand side with right back Ritchie Sutton earning a throw from the boot of James Smith. The throw proved the catalyst for Stags as Matt Green collected the ball he teed up Lee Stevenson, the attacking midfielder turned well to get out of trouble on the edge of the box before firing a well placed effort beyond the reach of McMillan to put the Stags ahead.

Two minutes later Lindon Meikle and Matt Green combined in a fluent move, Green’s driven effort collected low by McMillan. Minutes later Junior Daniel collected a yellow card for a strong challenge on Parry, tempers soon simmered down in the cool conditions.

Stags continued their search for a third goal on the hour mark as Stevenson, Green and Meikle combined to earn Stags a corner, however Murray’s delivery was just a little too strong for Jones at the back post.

Matt Green then tried his luck on 66 minutes as his low shot was palmed away by McMillan, Stevenson was on hand to pick up the loose ball but failed to keep his feet, Southport clung on as Junior Daniel swung in another follow up cross.

Three minutes later Alan Marriott held on to Bakare’s curling effort, Shaun Whalley also wasted an effort scooping well over the bar on 75 minutes. Five minutes later a long ball forward from McMillan saw Southport force a corner, Alan Marriott fail to really connect to his attempted clearing punch, Lee Beevers the man to rescue Stags as he headed a goal bound shot off the line. Four minutes later Marriott held on well to Carl Ledsham’s shot.

In the final three minutes Louis Briscoe replaced Junior Daniel, in the dying seconds he came close to adding a much deserved third goal, striking the bar from distance after a forceful driving run – the resulting kick forward from McMillan saw the referee blow his full time whistle and Stags celebrating their fourth consecutive league away win.

FULL TIME: Southport 1-2 Stags

The views expressed in this blog are those of the writer and not those of Mansfield Matters or its related organisations – to submit a blog email, mtfcmatters@gmail.com           

Craig Priest writes...

As the snow continues to gently fall onto the streets of England, I sit here with a cup of tea and a slice of Birthday Cake hopeful that tomorrow’s game will escape the evilness of Mother Nature and go ahead – why? Well simply because I believe we are in good form on the road at the minute and that after Tuesday night’s victory at Stockport, we are ready as a squad to kick on now.

It’s amazing to think that up until mid-November Stags couldn’t buy an away win in the league, having beaten only Kidderminster on August 18th excluding cup wins at Workington and Slough, the latter on penalties, the Stags were poor away from home and in honesty I began to find myself dreading away games – games at Cambridge, Gateshead and Grimsby leaving me with nightmares. However the solid 3-0 victory at Macclesfield on November 22nd seems to have given Stags refreshed confidence on the road as, since that night at Moss Rose, Stags have a perfect record providing you exclude the two cup matches – grabbing a 3-0 win at Alfreton and of course, the 3-1 win midweek victory at Stockport.

Fair play two games don’t shape a season but I believe our U-turn in away fortunes can provide Paul Cox’s men with a platform to build upon, I think the performance in those last three league victories shows we can climb the table and warrant success, even if we do include those two cup games, a draw at Lincoln plus that pathetic defeat at Matlock, Stags are still in good form – netting 13 goals conceding six.

This is a huge improvement on our first eight league away games, a run where we picked up just one victory and had a defeat percentage of 62.5% - during those eight games and numerous hammerings we conceded a mammoth 22 goals to a return of nine, things are certainly turning a corner with three back to back away league wins, nine goals, two clean sheets and just one goal against. My point is during that baron run Stags looked at the away record and were automatically in a negative frame of mind, now they can do the exact opposite and play with the confident spark which we know, can ignite Mansfield to great things.

Confidence is certainly a factor Stags will need as, thanks to the now lashing down of snow, games will be coming thick and fast – Stags have some tough fixtures coming up both on home snow and away snow, all the points will be vital if only to keep our momentum going – again the best way to move forwards is to take each game as it comes.

Southport tomorrow, should it pass an 8.30am pitch inspection and survive this covering of snow, will be a tough one. The fact the Sandergrounders have key players missing will be a boost for Paul Cox’s side but as always, Liam Watson’s men will be up for the challenge and eager to take all the points for themselves – they’ve been on some good form themselves of late with just one defeat in eight games in all competitions.

I’m sure Paul Cox will stick with what worked at Stockport, although Southport will have a few more experienced heads than Stockport whose side against Stags was a relatively young one, Lee Stevenson has a real chance to establish himself and hit the form which saw him become one of the hottest properties in non-league football two seasons or so ago. 

Stags and Southport last locked horns back in November, Ben Hutchinson netted an early strike which proved the eventual winner, tomorrow’s meeting at Haig Avenue will be the 56th meeting between the pair who first met in 1932.

Last term Southport did the double over Stags with two 3-1 victories, Paul Connor netted Stags only goal at the One Call Stadium whilst John Dempster netted at Haig Avenue. An interesting note ahead of tomorrow’s match will be the first goal, who ever scores it will have netted the 200th goal between the sides down the years, Stags hold a significant 110-89 lead on Southport.

Interesting too that if it’s Southport who net first, the player to score will have netted Southport’s 50th goal over Stags on Southport soil, a place which kind of haunts Stags a little having collected just six wins from 26 visits, slipping to 12 defeats and playing out eight draws – Stags last victory at Southport coming in September 2010 curtsey of Lee Gregory and Stevie Istead in what was the sides first meeting in the conference and for 35 years.

Stags will be without striker Jake Speight and defender Exodus Geohaghon, the former looks set to be out for the remainder of the season with a Cartilage tear. Gary Roberts is also unavailable following the competition of his loan move to Malta based outfit Floriana whilst Paul Cox may give a surprise call to Jamie Tolley who looks to have been given another chance to shine following his prolonged spell in the Quarry Club! (Explanation of Quarry Club via Tolley’s twitter)

Southport will be without Stags duo Andy Owens and Godfrey Poku, both players who signed from Southport in the summer and will remain at their previous employees for the remainder of the season. So far Poku, who has another season left to run at Stags, has featured 19 times for Watsons men whilst Owens has made six appearances in his second spell at Haig Avenue, netting three goals playing as a centre forward!

Southport also look set to be without a number of key players who have picked up niggles.

Once more should the game go ahead I’ll be braving the freezing conditions, brining you full match commentary with build up from 2pm via our MM-LIVE page and of course, 106.9FM

During the build up we’ll have highlights from Tuesday’s midweek win at Stockport plus your thoughts on Steve McNulty – would he be a welcome addition to the clubs defence following the news that Paul Cox has declared interest in the Fleetwood centre-half. Tweet your thoughts to @mtfcmatters or email mtfcmatters@gmail.com (before 2pm!) – Our text line WILL be back in the next week.

PLEASE NOTE: Although Southport say there pitch is fine, there will be a 8.30am pitch inspection

The views expressed in this blog are those of the writer and not those of Mansfield Matters or its related organisations – to submit a blog email mtfcmatters@gmail.com        

Craig Priest writes....

Fixture: Stockport County Vs Mansfield Town
Competition: Blue Square Bet Premier – Game #20 (Re-Arranged) 
Venue: Edgeley Park
Date & Time: Tuesday 15th January 2013 – 7.45pm
Match Referee: Darren Handley
Attendance: 2,647 (139)

As I begin to write today’s blog I breathe a huge sigh of relief, three points in the bag with a controlled performance to match – exactly what was called for following Saturday’s defeat at home to Kidderminster.

Changes were made by Paul Cox and the response was a professional one, once we got hold of the game anyway – one thing that shines for me is something that lacked on Saturday, desire & professionalism. On reflection it could have been a different game entirely had Stockport taken their early chances however sometimes you need that bit of luck to take stock of the situation and deal with it, Stags certainly got that and reaped the rewards, they must ensure they do the same on Saturday at Southport and deliver me a belated birthday present!

If I’m going to write with honesty here it wasn’t the greatest game to watch, if truth be told it was quiet for prolonged spells but the Stags put the ball in the net when it mattered – in terms of performance I felt we looked stretched at times and didn’t move the ball quick enough, Stockport to their credit closed down well and defended from the front, they broke with intensity too but things just didn’t drop when they needed too which eventually helped Stags onto the points.

It was certainly nice to see Jones, Sutton, Daniel and Stevenson back in the fold, the latter two suit the 4-2-3-1 formation with Daniel giving that natural balance of a left footer whilst Stevenson looked hungry when he found himself forwards. My only worry would be that early on we looked disorientated as players dropped too deep, for example our attacking midfielder seemed to be on the edge of our own box rather than that of our oppositions which in turn dragged us as a unit a little too deep – that will change though should this selection be repeated and be allowed to develop further.

All in all I felt last night was a deserved victory for Stags in below freezing conditions, credit to those 139 travelling fans who made the journey too, their near constant singing certainly kept Stags’ focus – everyone together, it’s a warming feeling.

Paul Cox made four changes to the side which were beaten by Kidderminster at the weekend, defender Exodus Geohaghon missed out through injury whilst John Thompson was dropped to the bench in favour of Ritchie Sutton. Lee Stevenson made his first start since the 2-2 draw at AFC Telford in mid-September at the expense of Chris Clements whilst Junior Daniel came in to replace Louis Briscoe.

Line Up [4-2-3-1] Alan Marriott, Ritchie Sutton, John Dempster, Luke Jones, Lee Beevers, Adam Murray (C), Anthony Howell, Lindon Meikle, Lee Stevenson, Junior Daniel, Matt Green
Substitutes: John Thompson, Louis Briscoe, Nick Wright, Chris Clements, Matt Rhead

Relegation threatened Stockport began well as they looked to steer away from the drop-zone, with Stags looking out of shape and wobbly Stockport wasted a real chance on five minutes as Danny Hattersley climbed unchallenged to meet Danny Whiteheads corner, however the hatters’ leading marksman nodded wide of the target.

Hattersley would get another stab at grabbing the opening goal three minutes later as Whitehead’s low cross struck the hand of Sutton as the hosts came away on the counter attack, referee Darren Handley showed no hesitation in pointing to the penalty spot. Hattersley stepped up but failed to hit the target, hitting wide of Marriott’s right hand post although in fairness, had the shot been on target Marriott may well have kept it out after guessing correctly and diving low – the penalty miss relieving Stags of conceding first, so far this term they’ve won just one match when conceding first, that back in August at Kidderminster. 

John Dempster then collected a booking on nine minutes and despite being on thin ice, made a sublime challenge seconds later on Connor Jennings inside the Stags box.

Lee Stevenson registered Stags first effort of the game on 17 minutes and was mightily unlucky not to give Stags the lead. Flowing football from Stags saw Matt Green and Junior Daniel combine, the latter feeding Stevenson clean through only for the former Eastwood man making only his tenth full start in just over 18 months at Stags to be denied by a solid save from debutant Hatters keeper Richard O’Donnell.

Nine minutes later Danny Hattersley again was guilty of lacking the killer touch for the hosts as Alan Marriott comfortably held his tame header following a deep cross from the impressive Sean Newton, the hosts best player on the night with a series of well timed challenges and attacking runs.

Newton then sparred his sides’ blushes on 34 minutes as Adam Murray swung in a testing corner for Luke Jones to connect with, Newton converting the goal bound ball behind for a second corner, from which Jones headed wide.

Four minutes later marked the start of a tremendous 15 minutes in front of goal for Stags as they found the first of three goals. Lee Stevenson combined with Anthony Howell who was fouled right on the edge of the visitors box, Junior Daniel stepped up to riffle in an unstoppable free kick which pretty much destroyed the Stockport wall.

Three minutes from the restart the Stags doubled their lead as Lee Beevers deep free kick caused trouble for the hosts. Flicked on by Jones on the edge of the box Matt Green made the final assist, his cross-cum-shot taped in at the far post by Stevenson.

In the second minute of as many added at the end of the first half, Adam Murray’s corner proved the catalyst for another Stags goal, this time John Dempster was bundled to the ground by Andy Halls and the Stags awarded a spot kick of their own, Matt Green stepped up to powerfully convert the penalty, netting his tenth goal of the season in the process.

HALF TIME: Stockport 0-3 Stags

Hatters boss Jim Gannon made a double swap at the break as he looked to rescue the game, Tom Collins who replaced the miss-hitting Hattersley seemed to follow suit as he missed two early efforts for the Hatters, turning two low crosses from Newton wide of the mark.

Stags had to wait until the 66th minute for the next real opportunity to add a fourth, Adam Murray’s clipped free kick nodded down in space by Dempster saw Anthony Howell free inside the box, the Stags central man failed to find the target though as he screwed a right footed effort wide from eight yards, four minutes later a solo run from Dempster saw him go box to box before feeding Meikle, his pass into space saw Stevenson crowded out just as he was about to pull the trigger.

Louis Briscoe then replaced Lindon Meikle as Stags looked to prevent Sean Newton from straying too far forwards, Briscoe enjoyed a decent enough run and helped earn a free kick on 73 minutes – Howell curled over left footed after the set play had been worked short.

Four minutes later Junior Daniel had another opportunity from similar range to his opening goal, his forceful effort this time cannoned back off the wall before the hosts cleared.

Connor Jennings then fired over for the visitors on 78 seconds after Alex Meaney had replaced Jon Nolan, the hatters sub was involved in some threatening play, collecting a booking for a late challenge on Lee Beevers before tapping home what proved a consolation goal with nine minutes remaining. The goal came as Newton sent Whitehead on his way into the box, his effort thundered back off the post into the path of Meaney who in truth, couldn’t really miss from half a yard.

Alan Marriott then held onto a tame curling effort from Jennings before Briscoe, Green and Stevenson all saw chances go narrowly wide at the other end, the full time whistle soon arrived to a chorus of Stockport boo’s and, whilst Stags collected all three points, County Director of Football Jim Gannon collected his marching orders, being dismissed from his post as Hatters slipped into the drop zone.

FULL TIME: Stockport 1-3 Stags

The views expressed in this blog are those of the writer and not those of Mansfield Matters or its related organisations – to submit a blog email, mtfcmatters@gmail.com        

Craig Priest writes...

After the whimpering show against Kidderminster in certain area’s there’s only one thing which Stags need to do tomorrow night at Stockport snow permitting – WIN! Three points is the only boost the players can give supporters now as January ticks on, it’s time to stop saying ‘It wasn’t the result we wanted but the performance was good’ and time to start saying ‘that WAS the result we wanted and the performance certainly warranted three points’ – Never will I write Mansfield Town off but I say this with a stern heart, we have to start closing the gap.

Stockport’s the prime place to do it, a wide but good conditioned pitch surrounded by big, atmospheric stands will suit Mansfield against opponents who aren’t having the best of times this term – Jim Gannon’s side currently lurk one place and one point from the drop zone.

The question for me is more about desire than ability, we have a squad which oozes quality, the problem comes less in finding the formation to suit but more in the willingness to fight when we go behind – conceding first on nine occasions this term the Stags have only turned things around once to gain victory, drawing twice and losing the remaining six. For me this shows a lack of character, you can’t go into a match and let things hinge on who scores first you have to be prepared for every eventuality – do we have the personnel for this? Yes, can we fuse them together – that’s impossible to answer.

I will never claim to be a football manager, except for on my laptop when I’ve got a spare half hour anyway, so again feel free to take this with a pinch of salt – what do Stags need to get back to winning ways, in my opinion – reintroduce Ben Hutchinson.

For some reason Hutchinson found himself dropped from the starting line-up on New Year’s Day as we headed to Alfreton after several fine performances, fair enough we managed to win the game although the former Celtic man did make an appearance from the bench. Statistically Stags do well with Hutchinson in the side, with a total of 13 appearances which includes two from the bench, Stags have clocked up six wins and as many draws with just one defeat – this means with Hutchinson in the side Stags have an unbeaten percentage of 92.4%.

In honesty the 4-4-1-1 formation we use with Hutchinson in the side suits us well, personally I find that Green plays with a little bit more freedom and confidence when he has Hutchinson playing a deeper role behind him rather than having another player such as Rhead or Speight playing directly alongside him. Additionally the midfield will get a little bit more support with Hutchinson in the line-up, this gives the likes of Meikle and Briscoe a little more freedom to get wider and create more chances.

Once again I reiterate something I mentioned above in that I am not a football manager, but I did wonder about the captaincy  - not for a second is this aimed at slating Murray who as many of you will know is one of my favourite Stags players, I was just looking at accommodating Hutchinson in that 4-4-1-1 formation and balancing the line-up in mid-field, for example do you purposely split Clements and Howell who in my opinion are a good partnership just for the sake of having Murray in the side. It’s no secret that in the past Mansfield have been unable to cope without Murray’s influence, however in John Dempster I feel we have a captain capable of commanding the best from the players as Murray did on numerous occasions last season. This year with Murray now Assistant Manager and joint Youth Team Boss does he have one responsibility too many, would it be beneficial to use Murray on and off as we have been doing but have Dempster as captain on a permanent basis?

Obviously statistics are irrelevant however for those interested Murray has skippered 15 games with a win percentage of 40% whilst Dempster has taken the armband on nine occasions and has a slightly higher win percentage of 44.4% - naturally this is just food for thought, let’s hope that whatever Paul Cox chooses to do tomorrow night at Stockport that we come out with all three points.

Stags and Stockport have a long history together having first met in 1932; tomorrow’s meeting will be there 84th in all competitions. Last term Stags completed the double of the Hatters’, Luke O’Neill’s strike at Edgley Park in August 2011 gave Stags their first away win of the campaign.

The sides locked horns again in April 2012, a 2-1 victory with goals from Adam Smith and Louis Briscoe put Stags one point away from sealing a play-off space.

Mansfield have 32 wins to 31 defeats in total whilst at Edgley Park things aren’t so positive, Stags have grabbed just six wins, slipping to 22 defeats and playing out 10 draws.

As of yet there’s no news on whether or not Lee Beevers will be ok to play after being taken off injured on Saturday after being crocked by Sean Clancy, other than his availability Cox has again a full squad to choose from bar Ross Dyer. Gary Roberts may be nearby but NOT at Edgley Park, he’ll be at the airport as he currently awaits international clearance to go on loan to Floriana.

With no news of a pitch inspection as yet, I prepare to escape the Mansfield snow and bring you full match commentary. Join me on 106.9FM, the Tune-In Radio app and as usual, our MM-LIVE page from 7pm.

The views expressed in this blog are those of the writer and not those of Mansfield Matters or its related organisations – to submit a blog, email mtfcmatters@gmail.com

Craig Priest writes....

Fixture: Mansfield Town Vs Kidderminster Harriers
Competition: Blue Square Bet Premier – Game #28 
Venue: The One Call Stadium
Date & Time: Saturday 12th January 2013 – 3pm
Match Referee: Declan Ford (Lincoln)
Attendance: 2,405 (208)

At full time yesterday prior to packing up the commentary kit, I sat in my seat in the One Call Stadium looking at a relatively empty stadium reflecting on the two past games – I was hoping that after the Liverpool defeat, Stags could take some heart and try to kick on in the league – alas not, as at full time yesterday I was reflecting on a whimpered show from Stags as they conceded two easy goals to be beaten by Kidderminster Harriers.

Fair play to Steve Burr’s side, they are a team in form and a side playing collectively with hunger – but for Stags why was there no fight, no hunger and desire – yes you can say we’ve been unlucky to hit the post countless times and some decisions haven’t quite gone for us, but realistically excuses don’t matter – we’ve lost another game and despite having numerous games in hand, need to start improving.

We’re not a bad side but sometimes I’m left questioning our attitude and desire levels when we go behind, we did it against Liverpool, so why can’t we do it against Kidderminster Harriers? I guess the only positive is for now, we have games coming thick and fast – no time for dwelling, just time for improvement and hopefully positive momentum.

Bring on Stockport midweek, a side struggling just outside the drop zone – let’s kick on now and take advantage, for now though we look back on yesterday’s game.

Paul Cox unsurprisingly stuck with the same eleven that went toe to toe with Liverpool, however 4-5-1 became the attack minded 4-2-3-1 which saw Stags come good at Alfreton on News Years Day, there last win.

Line Up [4-2-3-1] Alan Marriott, John Thompson, John Dempster, Exodus Geohaghon, Lee Beevers, Adam Murray (C), Chris Clements, Louis Briscoe, Anthony Howell, Lindon Meikle, Matt Green.
Substitutes: Ritchie Sutton, Nick Wright, Matt Rhead, Lee Stevenson, Junior Daniel.

Kidderminster had won ten from their previous eleven games going into the fixture and despite leaving hot property Jamalle Matt on Friday, they began in rampant style with fluent football getting the Stags stretched – fortunately a third minute corner failed to trouble Stags who then went in search of a goal at the other end.

Matt Green came close to finding one on six minutes as Clements and Briscoe interchanged, Green collected the ball from Clements and drove forwards before striking from 20 yards and hitting the outside of the post.

Stags would have to wait ten minutes before the next sight of goal and at the other end, clung on as Kidderminster moved the ball well, Marvin Johnson shooting narrowly wide before Exodus Geohaghon gifted his old club another effort on goal, his slip allowed Ryan Rowe to square for James Vincent – with an open goal he blazed over much to the Stags’ relief.

On 15minutes Anthony Howell was heavily involved as a Geohaghon throw was sandwiched between two Clements’ corners, Howell saw two efforts blocked as the Harriers defended resiliently.

Adam Murray then made a needless foul on Rowe as Harrier’s attacked with pace on 21 minutes, John Thompson was guilty of being caught out of position too as Johnson surged forwards to cross. The resulting free kick, right on the edge of the Stags box, was thundered in by the impressive Mickey Demetriou who weighted his set piece well to put the Harriers ahead.

Minutes later Kidderminster had a second but not before Alan Marriott palmed away another Vincent effort after the Kidderminster man turned his former team mate Exodus Geohaghon. The Harriers second game four minutes after the first, Lee Beevers was left for dead by the advanced Lee Vaughn who found space in the box to thunder home into the top corner.

Two minutes after the restart John Dempster nearly restored some hope as his thunderous effort from a Clements corner was pushed onto the bar by Harriers keeper Danny Lewis, Matt Green also saw another long range effort come close before the visitors pilled on the pressure with a goal mouth scramble, Stags serving hand ball claims from the Harriers players.

As the half came to a close, Green again struck the woodwork, this time hitting the bar from the edge of the box before clipping the follow up wide – Stags booed off at the break two goals behind.

HALF TIME: Stags 0-2 Kidderminster

Paul Cox through on Junior Daniel and Ritchie Sutton at the break for Louis Briscoe and John Thompson respectively, Harrier’s responded the better to the changes as Johnson came close to adding a third, blazing over the bar with just 39 seconds into the second half.

Lindon Meikle’s attempted give and go with Green on 50 minutes was mopped up well by Harriers who in truth, were starting to come a little unstuck down the wings but were let off by Stags’ failure to apply the finish, none more so than on 51 minutes – Junior Daniel weaved his way forwards from the half way line but screwed his final effort horribly wide. Daniel came close two minutes later from Howell’s flick but was denied by Lewis who made a good firm stop.

As the hour mark approach Lindon Meikle was twisting and turning but again curled wide from Clements’ assist, three minutes later Howell was penalised for a foul on Demetriou which meant Stags had a goal ruled out although the whistle had gone way before Howell curled home.

Still two behind Stags needed some luck but despite numerous set play’s, the reward still didn’t come, on 71 minutes Kidderminster made a double change and three minutes later, one of the two brought on Sean Clancy was shown his marching orders for a late and dangerous two footed challenge on Lee Beevers, he unable to continue despite trying and was subbed for Matt Rhead, Adam Murray was the one intended to be replaced and, upon seeing his number flash up on the fourth officials board, tore off the captains armband and ‘exchanged words’ with Paul Cox.

Kidderminster were still in control even with a man less, a sloppy and frankly pathetic pass from Geohaghon across his own box on 79 minutes gifted Callum Gittings a sight off goal, fortunately for Stags he missed the target.

Late on Meikle blazed over following a Clements corner before Matt Rhead saw an effort palmed away by the keeper, Adam Murray also prodded wide in the dying seconds but in truth the match was already over and done with, it had been since the opening goal.

FULL TIME: Stags 0-2 Kidderminster

The views expressed in this blog are those of the writer and not those of Mansfield Matters or it’s related organisations – to submit a blog email, mtfcmatters@gmail.com           

Craig Priest & Emily Sykes write...

After Sunday’s FA Cup exit to Liverpool we write this with a feeling of relief, finally we’ve got another game to look forward to and hopefully it will be our results and performances which dominant the headlines rather that Luis Suarez’s handball – frankly we are fed-up of hearing about it now.

It’s a shame really that the controversial hit man’s goal continues to dominant the headlines, with each story that’s published we get the feeling that the performance, desire and sheer brilliance of Mansfield Town last Sunday becomes forgotten – everybody is talking about Suarez rather than Stags and the heart they showed, ahead of tomorrow’s game with Kidderminster, we think it’s time to not only remember to performance of Stags last Sunday but build on it – lets use the energy,  the confidence and the euphoria to carry us on as our quest for promotion steps up a gear. Should we be playing Liverpool at Anfield on Tuesday, possibly but the fact is we have got Stockport County; the point is let’s focus on the here and now.

The Kidderminster match kicks off a hectic schedule for Paul Cox and his players, the only thing on their mind now should be collecting three points in every match. You too can play your part by coming along and singing loud, demonstrating that proudness the nation witnessed last weekend – we all harbour dreams of success but sometimes we have to realise that success isn’t just a moment in the spotlight it’s a collection of hard graft and desire over time – our story isn’t over, its only just beginning.

If ever you needed evidence that football is a game of twists and turns then look back to the start of this current season, Kidderminster Harriers after 10 games had failed to collect a single win, losing their opening five games back-to-back – now they sit just outside the play offs having lost just once in 11 outings. Steve Burr’s side are always competitive and when they hit form, well it’s best to avoid them put it that way! Tomorrow at the One Call Stadium, Mansfield have a rare opportunity to hit Kidderminster whilst there rocking – the departure of striker Jamille Matt earlier today to Fleetwood would have come as a huge blow. With eight goals this term including a treble in the dramatic 3-2 win over Newport, Matt’s contribution will be sorely missed, just like the Harriers missed the influence of Nick Wright at the start of the season – we believe that if Kidderminster are unbalanced and weak in an area following the departure then Stags have to make it count. It’s not just this season that the now Fleetwood front man has made a mark, departing Aggborough with 22 goals in just over 50 appearances for the club, Harriers boss Burr is left with another dent in Harriers armoury – they are always a side that have goals in abundance.

Naturally one player doesn’t make a team and Stags will have to be wary of the threat posed by Kidderminster’s leading scorer Ryan Rowe and that of Anthony Malbon, another solid defensive display will be key for Paul Cox’s side.

All the talk of Liverpool, all the memories and all the discussions that followed need to be shelved for now, our ambition and our aim is promotion from the Blue Square Bet Premier – we have shown the world that we can fight now it’s time to show our competitors that we can achieve anything we put our minds to, where better to start than against a play-off chasing, inform side such as Kidderminster.

As mentioned above it took Kidderminster time to get out the starting blocks this term during that run of five consecutive defeats came the last meeting between the two sides, Stags grabbing their first victory of the season as Matt Green plus two from Lindon Meikle gave Stags a 3-2 victory at Aggborough.

The sides have met 17 times in total since they first locked horns on Boxing Day 2000, Stags have been slightly the better side statistically recording eight wins to the Harriers six . At the One Call Stadium Stags have four victories to their name being beaten by Kidderminster only twice, Kidderminster’s wins coming on their last two trips to the One Call Stadium.

Paul Cox should have a full squad to pick from tomorrow with the exception of Ross Dyer, he may have some selection headaches too following the reserves 5-0 thrashing of Hartlepool on Tuesday, Lee Stevenson and Matt Rhead the stand-out performers.

Exodus Geohaghon should be available to take on his former club, his transfer in late August a permanent one rather than a loan meaning there should be no restrictions on his selection.

As Stags return to the bread and butter of the league, catch regular updates with Craig from 2pm tomorrow by either tuning your radios into 106.9FM or logging onto our MM-LIVE page.  

The views expressed in this blog are those the writers, not those of Mansfield Matters or its related organisations – to submit a blog email mtfcmatters@gmail.com

Craig Priest writes....

Fixture: Mansfield Town Vs Liverpool
Competition: The FA Cup with Budweiser, third round.  
Venue: The One Call Stadium
Date & Time: Sunday 6th January 2013 – 4pm
Match Referee: Andre Marriner (Birmingham)
Attendance: 7,574 (1,433)

Do you know what, I have absolutely no idea where to start or even what to write about yesterday’s FA Cup encounter with Liverpool, there’s so many ways this could go it’s confusing, I guess the best place to start is with a fact: whatever the outcome and the opinions of others – I am bloody proud of Mansfield Town Football Club.

Luis Suarez naturally is taking the national media headlines at the moment for his hand-ball goal which ultimately won Liverpool the game, my take on it is a short and sweet one – at that pace there wasn’t much he could about it and it was accidental, the officials saw it and failed to act upon it therefore it’s there error and not Suarez’s – we’d have said nothing if it was Matt Green at the other end: MOVE ON!

Frankly it annoys me that the incident is dominating the press because it’s starting to over shadow our day, I don’t wish to remember the game as the day which Suarez handled, I want to remember it as the day which our beloved Mansfield Town stood toe to toe with a giant and had them hanging on for dear life, why? Simply because it’s a fact.

I said it at the top of the piece and I’ll say it again, I am proud of Mansfield Town – the performance, desire and energy was a joy to behold – I firmly believe if we continue at that level across the board for the remainder of the season, achieving a play-off finish will be no bother whatsoever. What I will say may offend some people here, I apologise in advance – if yesterday was your first game, if you’ve been a ‘plastic supporter’ etc I ask you to think back on yesterday’s events. Did you enjoy sampling the atmosphere, did you make new friends, were you impressed by the football and, most importantly, did you find yourself falling a little bit in love with Stags and taking them too heart? If so, come back on Saturday when we take on Kidderminster Harriers, come back week in week out and join us – the players thrive on positive support and get great results, those of us that have followed the journey over time are begging for more than just one day in the spot light, were begging for promotion and long term success – if you come along and support in the way you did yesterday we can do it, nobody will judge you – we’ll welcome you.

I take my hat off to every single player yesterday fighting for the cause, we deserved at least a draw and a trip to Anfield – that never give up attitude is one we need to remember and demonstrate for the rest of our league campaign now. The financial rewards will undoubtedly strengthen us both in the back room and hopefully on the pitch, one or two transfer movements would stand us in good stead for the remainder of the season and into the next, it’s important not just too use yesterday as a memory, but as a platform to build upon.

I’ve eluded to this elsewhere, it’s going to be extremely difficult, even for the best of writers to tell the story, so remember your own personal story and the moments which touched your heart – football clubs should not be judged on the trophies in their cabinet or the amount of zeros on their bank balance, they should be judged by the way they are supported and by the moments on the pitch – yesterday we had just one of our many moments down the years, we are rich in that regard. I hope you enjoy my take on how the match unfolded...

Paul Cox made just one change from the side to breeze past Alfreton on New Year’s Day, man of the match Junior Daniel was dropped to the bench in favour of Louis Briscoe as the newly wedded Stags boss and birthday boy, looked to pack the midfield.

Line Up [4-5-1]: Alan Marriott, John Thompson, Exodus Geohaghon, John Dempster, Lee Beevers, Louis Briscoe, Adam Murray (C), Chris Clements, Anthony Howell, Lindon Meikle, Matt Green.
Substitutes: Ritchie Sutton, Jake Speight, Nick Wright, Matt Rhead, Ben Hutchinson, Lee Stevenson, Junior Daniel.

Naturally it was Liverpool who began well, with an abundance of talent including £12M debutant Daniel Sturridge in their side they were always going too however did Stags give them a little too much respect, I certainly think so as they pressed but allowed Liverpool to attack with pace and huge pockets of space.

Stuart Downing, who was a used substitute for Middlesbrough in Stags’ last FA Cup outing against a premier league side, started well for Liverpool and his third minute shot earned the visitors a corner via the legs of John Thompson.

A minute later Suso was next to have a go, cutting in from the right hand side past Lee Beevers his effort was high and wayward and didn’t trouble Alan Marriott in the Stags goal. Stags did briefly scare the seven time FA Cup winners on five minutes, Meikle and Green combined before skipper Adam Murray clipped a great ball over the top which Green was agonisingly close to latch onto, keeper Brad Jones got there first for Liverpool.

Two minutes later the opening goal came in cool fashion for Liverpool, Jonjo Shelvey was allowed far too much space for the last season’s FA Cup runners up and the promising youngster played an exquisite cutting pass through the Stags defence. Daniel Sturridge was the recipient and he slotted a cool first time finish underneath the on rushing Marriott who could do nothing about the crisp and expert finish of the former Chelsea front man.

With Liverpool 1-0 up, it could have been a totally different outcome to what I’ve already written about, however there were key factors which help shape the game and the way in which Mansfield performed, none more so than a minute after the restart when John Dempster played a nervy back pass to Marriott, goal scorer Sturridge pounced and rather arrogantly in my opinion, tried to dance his way around Marriott and double Liverpool’s lead – his decision to be flamboyant rather than clinical helped the Stags as Marriott made himself big and made a splendid block with his chest and keep Mansfield in the game.

The chances didn’t stop and a minute after Marriott’s game-saving stop, Stags grabbed their first opportunity of the game. Inspired by Marriott’s save Stags began played some fluent football, Lindon Meikle cut inside from the left flank and drew a foul from Andre Wisdom. Chris Clements’ resulting free kick cannoned back off the wall to the half way line where John Thompson pumped back into the area, however his delivery was too strong for Meikle and the ball drifted out for a goal kick.

Liverpool then played a sloppy midfield pass on 13 minutes which Anthony Howell collected, his splitting pass was too strong for Green who again, was just beaten to the ball by the keeper. Seconds later Marriott again denied Sturridge in what proved a carbon copy move of the opening goal.

Three minutes later it was Liverpool’s turn to test the water with a free kick, Suso’s drive cannoned back off the wall before Shelvey scuffed the rebounded shot wide of the mark. Despite Liverpool coming close in quick succession the Stags again kept the pressure on in front of the Reds goal, John Dempster flicked a Geohaghon throw into the hands of Jones before on 28 minutes, Mansfield broke with such pace it looked like they were the premier league side, Briscoe launched long down the right hand side for Green who held up well but saw a penalty appealed turned down after a strong challenge from Jack Robinson.

Stags again came close on 32, Matt Green was so unfortunate as his shot from 20 yards seemed destined for the net, Brad Jones pulled off an expert save to maintain Liverpool’s lead. Stags final chance of the half came on 39 minutes, Exodus Geohaghon’s throw was pumped back in expertly by Clements. Louis Briscoe’s drive through the crowd was blocked much to Stags dismay.

Liverpool ended the half as they began it, in strong fashion – on the strike of half time Sturridge spurned a chance to double the Reds lead, dragging wide of the target after skinning Lee Beevers with relative ease.

HALF TIME: Stags 0-1 Liverpool                  

Mansfield completely shocked Liverpool as the dramatic second half unfolded, 43 seconds in and Stags were so unfortunate not to be on level terms as Meikle and Green combined on the left, the latter sent Howell clean through and his shot brushed off a combination of Jamie Carragher and Brad Jones for a corner.

Seconds later Sturridge fouled John Thompson and collected a debut booking, Alan Marriott’s resulting deep free kick was flicked on by Dempster to Howell who again saw a thunderous effort blocked.

On 48 minutes the action and barrage of Stags attacks continued, Lee Beevers showed determined defensive work to dispossess Sturridge who looked to break, great skill then followed to turn Shelvey before Anthony Howell took over, his final pass to Briscoe saw the wide man win yet another corner.

Briscoe and Green both again came close before Sturridge dragged an effort wide for Liverpool on 52 minutes, two minutes later he was replaced by Luis Suarez whilst Jordan Henderson also took to the pitch. The former doubled the visitors lead in controversial style on 58 minutes as Liverpool again broke with pace. Suarez’s initial shot was saved by Marriott however as the ball cannoned back, the controversial front man controlled with his arm before firing home, the officials admitted the handball but stated the accidental nature of the incident the reason for allowing the goal to stand.

Stags were dented by the goal and it took a while for them to readjust, however on 64 minutes Junior Daniel replaced Briscoe out wide as Stags searched for fresh legs in their adopted 4-2-3-1 formation.

Chris Clements linked up with Meikle on 68 minutes but failed to test Jones, three minutes later Stags had another appeal for a penalty turned down, Green’s clipped cross appeared to strike the hand of Coates however the flag was already raised against Howell.

Jonjo Shelvey hit an effort wide for Liverpool as they looked to kill the game off, his 57th minute miss may have again spurred Stags on as a minute later Green struck goal, thundering in from Lindon Meikle’s cut back, now 2-1 the ground was rocking and Stags sensed an upset.

With ten to go Rhead replaced Clements as Stags looked for some extra muscle in attack, five minutes later Green was flagged offside from Dempster’s flick. Four minutes were added on and a minute into stoppage time, Brad Jones denied Stags a dream replay, Matt Green again hitting a belter from distance.

The pressure stayed until the final second, the referee’s final whistle a relief for Liverpool whilst Stags were applauded off in the heroic status they deserved.

FULL TIME: Stags 1-2 Liverpool

The views expressed in this blog are those of the writer and not those of Mansfield Matters or it’s related organisations – to submit a blog email mtfcmatters@gmail.com

Craig Priest and Emily Sykes write...

With just over 24 hours to go before the game, it’s still difficult to believe that premier league giants Liverpool are our opponents tomorrow – who’d have thought when we made the long trip to Workington in the fourth qualifying round that we’d go on to become David rather than Goliath.

For the first time in a very long while we head into a game with no expectation on us what so ever, however with the eyes of the world watching on, we can’t help but wonder if there is expectation on us after all - are we now expected to pull off an upset?

There’s no doubt what so ever that Liverpool are giants, a club with one of the richest and proudest footballing histories are held in high regard by every football fan up and down the land, tomorrow the magic of the cup has given us the opportunity to mix with such giants – is it enough to just rub shoulders with such a side or dare we even dream to make the most of our moment in the spotlight.

Like Liverpool we to have a story to tell, in recent years it’s been nothing more than a dull and dark tale which props up a coffee table, tomorrow has the potential to take our tale from underneath the coffee table and put it on every newspaper stand and every book shelf all around the world. Being honest neither of us have paid too much attention to the build-up, all the talk of the gaffer’s wedding (Congratulations by the way) mixed in with all the talk about money has perhaps taken the sting and the magic out of the fixture and the reward the beautiful game can bring.

Let’s approach it in another manner then, the fact is regardless of stature it’s a game of football where there can be just one winner – for Liverpool it could be the start of another run to Wembley after finishing runners up last season, whilst for us well, who knows? Just another story from our handbook of tales down the years or another piece of the jigsaw to our picture of potential success.

Liverpool have all the tales of Europe, the premier league, the league cup and naturally the FA Cup. They have all the Euphoria of Anfield plus all of those now famous faces to don the infamous strip down the years. That said, Mansfield Town have had their days to – that little club on Quarry Lane maybe small in stature, but boy do they harbour big dreams and ambitions. To some this may seem like a collection of words on a screen to others that have followed the story in recent years this will be a collection of words that have a true understanding and meaning. The point encase you are wondering is tomorrow can be more than just the day Mansfield play host to Liverpool.

Usually when writing these previews it’s easy to judge what we will be facing, tomorrow is a different kettle of fish – who knows what side Brendan Rodgers will bring. Something somebody said to us at Alferton on New Year’s Day is quite poignant here no matter who takes to the field for Liverpool they are all representatives of one of the biggest football clubs in the world embrace the fact that your mixing with history, don’t harbour silly dreams of players doing a trick or two, focus on what you are good at: winning matches. It’s not until now that we understood what this meant but now it makes clear sense, we might not be the best team in the world but on our day we get results – tomorrow the ground will be packed and the world will be watching on mainly because of the Euphoria of Liverpool we ask now if you’re in the Mansfield end focus on Mansfield Town and support them in their efforts. This is a club and a team that thrives on love, encouragement and belief – if you demonstrate those three elements in the stands tomorrow then knowing Paul Cox and the players; they’ll give you a day to remember.

Not for a second do we want this to sound negative or even demining to the magical day itself but Stags harbour more than a pipe dream, they have ambitions of promotion and league success as well – what we are trying to say above is enjoy and remember “the day we played Liverpool” but also if you can help this little club keep more than one dream alive.

For now it’s a question of waiting and then enjoying as events unfold around us – just remember to ask yourself as those turnstiles click behind you and the smell of Bovril whiffs up your nose, is today just a day or is it just a stitch in the Stags tapestry.

The FA Trophy semi final against Luton and the play-offs against York last term don’t even compare to tomorrow it’s not do or die it’s not kill or be killed it’s just another game. As you sleep tonight and dream of what could be, remember the feeling remember the magic and take it with you wherever you go watching Stags – it’s true we deserve a day in the spotlight whatever you do sing loud and be proud, of Mansfield Town FC.

Stags and Liverpool have brushed shoulders in a cup competition before, in September 1970 Liverpool arrived at Field Mill for a league cup second round tie, the Stags coming extremely close to causing a huge upset, Dudley Roberts netted what he thought would be the winner late on only to see the referee rule out the goal. Still it was a pleasing result for The Stags who held the division one side to a goalless draw to earn a trip to Anfield.

Those who can remember the game will remember it well as Stags where leading 2-1 with 9 minutes remaining that was until Clive Walker was judged to handle inside the box. Tommy Smith tucked away the resulting penalty to set up a tense finish, the game headed into extra time with Alun Evans netting what proved to be the winner for Liverpool at the end of the first half of extra time.

The sides haven’t met since and if tomorrow is anything like those meetings in the early seventies, then we will all be witness to an FA Cup classic.

Following New Year’s Days 3-0 win over Alfreton defender Ritchie Sutton returns from suspension and could be in line for a recall, newly married Paul Cox has everybody bar Ross Dyer at his disposal and in our opinion has some bid decisions to make following the success of that 4-2-3-1 system. 

If your unable to get to tomorrow’s sold out fixture then be sure to log on to our MM-LIVE page for regular updates, build-up for the 4pm kick off starts at 3pm with Craig, who should be joined by the Chad’s Stephen Thirkill.

The views expressed in this blog are those of the writers and not those of Mansfield Matters or it’s related organisations – to submit a blog email mtfcmatters@gmail.com