Craig Priest writes....

When you’re on an excellent run you can sometimes forget about the ugly side of the beautiful game, tomorrow’s opponents Gateshead are a side currently grudging their way through the ugly side of the game.

The adverse weather has pulled the carpet from underneath their feet and forced Gateshead to play their home games away from the International Stadium, probably three quarters of the Heed’s season has been played on the road and the league form has suffered somewhat.

Back in August when the sides last met, Gateshead were on a semi-decent run and were looking lively and like they were in for another good season, fair play results did begin to go sour before the pitch problems which ultimately led to the departure of now Stockport Boss Ian Bogie in December. However the pitch problems caused delay in games, and although Gateshead have sort of caught up now, form struggled as the players had no familiar surroundings to adapt too.

Roughly ten games were postponed before Gateshead’s decision to ground share with Hartlepool, the heed though we’re unable to play all their remaining fixtures at Victoria Park and have also been forced to play, well pretty much anywhere available – York, Carlisle, Blyth and Boston have been used so far whilst Middlesbrough’s riverside stadium will stage their final game of this term.

The heed, now under the management of Anth Smith, find themselves a point outside the relegation places after clawing their way out of trouble in recent weeks, seemingly accepting their situation and opting to fight, recording recent wins over leaders Kidderminster, Hereford and play-off chasing Macclesfield, the latter coming on the back of six successive defeats.

My point is, when you’re flying high like us often you are blind to the games ugly side, tomorrow Gateshead will come to the One Call Stadium without the pressure of an away game and adapting to different surroundings as there used to it. They have seen AFC Telford drop out of the division and will be eager to edge themselves away from the drop-zone, despite being just a point clear at the moment – grabbing three points tomorrow would go a long way to securing survival for another season.

Stags on the other hand are chasing the title and out of the top three have the so called easy fixture, leaders Kidderminster travel to Luton who will be very keen to keep the faintest of play-hopes alive whilst third place Wrexham, eight points behind Stags now, travel to inform play-off chasers Macclesfield on the back of a poor defeat at Hyde yesterday.  

There are no easy games in this division, Mansfield need to do what they do best, keep winning! It’s as simple as that really. There are naturally a few distractions now as we enter April; the final push includes THREE mammoth games in hand on Kidderminster, the first of which comes on Thursday as the Stags travel to Wrexham. Paul Cox has been named Manager of the Month for March so there is the dreaded ‘curse’ to think of, not that one exists, and – I’m not sure if you’ve seen this but if Stags grab their 12th straight win tomorrow they will equal the record for consecutive wins in the conference, currently held by Burton Albion and Hereford United.

Records are nothing to me, as I’m sure is Coxy’s manager of the month accolade – it’s winning and progressing as normal which matters. Bring on tomorrow which is just one more step, one more game. Do you rest legs ahead of Wrexham, do you risk rocking the boat – this is a squad game, we’ll see – whatever happens, so long as there are three points on the board for Mansfield Town FC well, frankly my dear – I don’t give a dam.

At lot has happened since these two sides last locked horns back in August, a game in which in-form Gateshead trounced ten men Mansfield 4-1 at the Gateshead International Stadium. Luke Jones netted for Stags to level after 15 minutes but further strikes from Nathan Fisher and Chris Bush added to 9th minute opener from Liam Hatch before Fisher rounded things off late on after Lee Beevers collected his second yellow card.

The sides have a history in the conference and back in the football league between the 30’s and 50’s – in total they have met 39 times sharing 130 goals, of which Stags trail 60-70!

At the One Call Stadium there have been 19 meetings, Stags have record eight wins, suffering six defeats and playing out five draws – the also lead the goals 31-26.

Narrowing things down to the conference, the Stags and the Heed have met seven times, the Stags last win over Gateshead came at the One Call Stadium on April 25th 2011. Trailing 2-0 at the break at comeback was inspired by Paul Hall, no seriously, and Adam Murray, the latter netting a brace to level the game with a minute to go before providing the assist deep into injury time for Louis Briscoe to net and steal all three points. 

With the game coming so quickly after Saturday’s encounters, both managers could be tempted to change things. Manager of the month Paul Cox will probably stick with a winning side whilst Anth Smith may be tempted to change things as the Heed look to end of sequence of four games without a win, although they are three unbeaten with three draws. 

If you can’t make this Bank Holiday Easter Monday encounter, then be sure to open the Easter eggs and pig out whilst listening to regular updates via our MM-LIVE page, build up starts at 2pm.

Due to the Bank Holiday weekend, we cannot guarantee that coverage will go out on Takeover Radio 106.9FM due to staffing demands.

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:  Tamworth FC V Mansfield Town FC
Competition: Blue Square Bet Premier – Game #42
Venue: The Lamb Ground
Date & Time: Saturday 30th March 2013 – 3pm
Match Referee: Kevin Johnson
Attendance: 1,968 (1,172)

Mansfield Town’s remarkable season continued yesterday as Paul Cox’s men grabbed their eleventh win on the spin curtsey of Luke Jones’ 61st minute goal at Tamworth. As the final furlong of matches approaches, Stags remain a point behind leaders Kidderminster with three games in hand and now eight points ahead of Wrexham on the same amount of games and them to play twice – to say Mansfield have a firm grip on the title reins is an understatement, all they have to do is keep winning.

Naturally I’ll play the same ‘keep focused’ record but sitting here this morning and looking at the record pages for the club, it’s a successful season and you’d say that on paper – promotion as champions is ours. Yesterday’s victory as mentioned extended our consecutive win record to 11, beating the pre-war record of ten and eclipsing our post-war record of seven. Away from home we collected our 11th victory yesterday, equalling the club record last achieved in the 1976-77 campaign, outstanding when you consider in mid-November we held the poorest away record in the division this term, no we hold the best.

Paul Cox has rightly been awarded manager of the month for March, there is no curse so don’t let that one do the rounds! Yesterday’s performance wasn’t spectacular, but champions defend, champions fight and champions never give in – I think that’s a fair reflection for yesterday’s game, played out to a tingling audio back drop of 1,172 Stags fans who outnumbered the home support two to one!

I’m holding back a lot of things I could write here to be honest; a winning run such as this brings such a burning emotion the task of keeping focussed is difficult, with that in mind there’s little else left to be said to be fair, with another match tomorrow against Gateshead, preview to follow at roughly 5pm, Mansfield have to re-focus and make it 12 wins from as many games – April showers, but does it shower good fortune for our beloved side at long last! 

Paul Cox made two changes to the side which saw off Nuneaton midweek – Louis Briscoe was brought into the line up after bagging the winner from the bench, Junior Daniel made way after four below par games. Also coming in was new addition Greg Taylor, the Luton loan man slotted into left back replacing the injured James Jennings.

Line Up [4-4-1-1] Alan Marriott, Lee Beevers, Luke Jones, John Dempster, Greg Taylor, Louis Briscoe, Adam Murray (C), Adam Chapman, Lindon Meikle, Lee Stevenson, Matt Green.
Substitutes: Ritchie Sutton, Anthony Howell, Matt Rhead, Ben Hutchinson, Junior Daniel.

Up against a tough Lambs side, Mansfield were forced to defend in the opening minute as former loanee Marcus Kelly whipped in a dangerous deep free kick, Alan Marriott however was untroubled and collected with ease as the afternoon weather faded between blowing snow, darkness and burning sunshine.

Stags then enjoyed tremendous pressure on the hosts with a series of close calls, kicking off on three minutes as Lee Stevenson swept the ball for the left hand side for Lindon Meikle. The wide mans tricky left Richard Tait chasing snow drifts and shadows as Meikle combined with Green and then finally Stevenson, whose shot cannoned off Tom Marshall and behind for a corner. Adam Chapman clipped the ball in and at the far post, John Dempster's thunderous header was well saved by former Stags keeper Liam Mitchell.

Four minutes later another Stags corner caused a few problems before Kelly took it upon himself to go on a rampaging run. Charging over the half way line, Kelly played the ball left to the advancing Danny Lloyd, his cross trickling away for a throw however it was half a mile-meter away from connecting with the on rushing Darren Byfield’s boot.

On the stroke of ten minutes Tamworth rightly saw a goal chalked off as Adam Cunnington pulled back Dempster on the edge of the box, Three minutes later Tamworth’s first corner caused a few problems but Mansfield ultimately survived.

Stags then came agonisingly close twice within the space of a minute as Stevenson swivelled well on the edge of the box to tee up Green who was again denied by the excellence of Mitchell in the Lambs goal. From the resulting corner Luke Jones’ bullet header was half a yard wide but did have Tamworth scampering and arguing as to who was picking up what runner.

Kelly, Cunnington and Hendrie all registered half efforts for the Lambs as the half progressed however Stags were the more frequent in their attacks, knocking on the door but sadly, to no reply as a series of Chapman long throws teased the home defence – Chapman too registered an effort before Matt Green got in the way of Louis Briscoe’s rasping effort on the stroke of half time.

HALF TIME: Tamworth 0-0 Stags

The second half took a remarkable three attempts to start but when it eventually did, Tamworth came out fighting and saw an early cross from Danny Lloyd held before Alan Marriott got down low to prevent a driven shot from the same player.

John Dempster then collected his fourth post-Christmas booking on 55 minutes as he upended the advancing Cunnington on the edge of the box – Marcus Kelly’s excellent resulting free kick called Marriott into action, the joint Stags longest serving player palming the ball away.

Stags finally found the breakthrough on 61 minutes from a free kick, awarded on the left hand side as Lee Beevers got a face full of arm from Danny Lloyd as they tussled for a loose ball. Debutant Greg Taylor delivered from deep to the head of Substitute Matt Rhead into the path of Matt Green, his initial effort was blocked and the loose ball fell for Jones who made no mistake in driving the ball into the bottom corner from eight yards out – an excellent finish from the impressive centre half.

Seconds after the restart it could have been a carbon copy, however Rhead was this time judged to have fouled his marker and the move came to an abrupt end. Tamworth then had a sight of goal themselves on 68 minutes as Duane Courtney’s long throw wasn’t cleared, Michael Wylde hit the bar from close range before Junior Daniel cleared the ball, pretty much his first tough since replacing Briscoe early on in the second half.

Two minutes later Stags should have wrapped things up as Adam Chapman sprinted box to box with the ball at feet, eventually he found Meikle wide right and the ball was quickly swept from right to left with Rhead linking up with Daniel. The former Macclesfield mans cross sat up perfectly for Green whose header was saved by Mitchell before the Notts County loan man again denied Green’s bullet shot from point blank range.

With eight minutes to go a series of Courtney long throws threatened to rock the boat but Stags stood firm and were somewhat ferocious in their efforts to clear their lines. Several late free kicks had them on their toes but the impressive Jones headed pretty much everything to safety as Stags fought their way through six additional minutes of added time to collect another precious three points, they’ll go again tomorrow as they welcome struggling Gateshead to the One Call Stadium.

FULL TIME: Tamworth 0-1 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...

You know it’s funny what conversations do to you, half an hour ago I went to make a cuppa and for some reason started talking about the weekend and then, on a spiral as conversations often do here, about our Blue Square Bet Premier Journey.

In all honesty I was tempted to relay the whole conversation but during it, I felt a churn in my stomach – we are not of it yet so keep quiet! The reflective conversation with my dad did re-emphasise something to me however, the importance of escaping this nightmare-like yet somewhat beautiful league and not getting carried away, there are twists and turns yet to come.

Tomorrow’s match with Tamworth is another opportunity to progress and nothing more, it’s a simple fact that no matter what Kidderminster do, all we have to do is keep winning as there are more points available for us than the Harriers.

As a club we have grown so much in so many different ways from our debut season in the Football Conference and are in the best shape we’ve been in for many a year – the point though is that Kidderminster are in the same boat as are Wrexham, we all seen change in some form and we’ve all got the desire to progress and get back to our “roots”.

I believe in fate and destiny, you all know my thoughts on what destiny is (well you will do if you’ve been paying attention!) but fate is another thing, it’s somewhat reflective. Matt Green’s dismissal at the end of last season during the play-off’s may well turn out to be fate – his absence led to defeat and has arguably taught Paul Cox a lesson in having back-up and strength in depth. I guess you could argue that Ben Hutchinson should have been given a shot but was he as ready as he’ll be this term if called upon – no.

The fact that lessons have been learned has helped Cox in the way we prepare, the way we play and the approach we take to each and every game – a day out at Wembley for the second year in succession would have been brilliant, I’ll give you that, but would we have had the stability to progress further had we actually achieved promotion? In my opinion no, we’d have been like a caravan resting on its wheels! Fate told us it wasn’t our time and then asked us a question – are you going to sit there and cry for failing at the first hurdle or are you going to get back up and come out fighting next time around? Our form answers that question perfectly.

Drawing at York, we all said we’d win because of the home advantage – we’d already booked our coach seats and hotels before a ball had been kick – Arrogance forgot that York City had finished a place below us with a very good away record (third in the stat tables) and a very strong defence and strike force, Arrogance made us forget that York City had been harbouring dreams of a football league return for a lot more seasons that we had – Arrogance placed on team on that One Call pitch not two, that’s fate.

It’s fate for the reason that are we forgetting about leaders Kidderminster this term, no we are not – if you are go and research them, go and figure out that THEY TOO have a history and a desire to return to the promise land. Then there’s Wrexham too, fresh from their FA Trophy victory, all be it on penalties last Sunday, they have the taste of success and that small taste may prove to be a mere starter course for the main meal: the conference title!

Tamworth are a good side and despite our 100% record of visits to the Lamb Ground, will prove tough to beat. Earlier this term John Dempster went on loan to the Lambs during their good spell, currently Dale Belford’s Lambs are mid-table and four points clear of the drop – they’ll want to ensure survival for another season following their 2008-09 promotion and will certainly give us a game. All this talk of out numbering their fans is irrelevant; yes we’ll make noise and be heard but that counts for nothing on the pitch!

Focus must be solely on the Lamb Ground but for those wondering, Kidderminster will be eager to extend their seven game unbeaten home run as they face mid-table Braintree whilst newly crowned FA Trophy Champions Wrexham travel to Hyde, a club similar to Tamworth eager to pull themselves further away from the drop-zone.      

So let’s get dolled up in our Amber and Blue and make as much noise as we can, but let’s leave the dreams and the arrogance at home, locked under the stairs like Harry Potter – back the boys and believe!   

Don’t kill me for writing these words because I am no saint, I’ve had dreams of promotion etc and I’ve looked at the fixtures and ticked off the points, however that conversation has brought me back down to earth – one game at a time, we concentrate until the very end. Kidderminster as I say are up there but we are breathing down their necks, in fact we are so close, we are breathing for them! Wrexham are a little further behind us and have the us to play twice, they are still close enough to be felt though. Remember you can’t walk forwards whilst looking backwards over your shoulder. Concentrate and Focus will see us through – talking of focus, I never did get that cup of tea...

As mentioned above Stags have a 100% record against Tamworth at the Lamb Ground from our three meetings so far, earlier in the season at the One Call Stadium Stags did also grab all three points as the silenced the Lambs rather than Slaughter them, A Matt Green penalty plus a Luke Jones goal did the job for Stags back in September.

Last term Stags also took maximum points from the Lambs with both games played within two weeks of each other as the calendar year made the transition from February to March. Adam Smith and Matt Green stuck at the One Call with Green grabbing the only goal at the Lamb in what proved a nervy encounter in our quest for the play-offs.

In total there have been seven league encounters since the clubs first meeting in 2010 at the Lamb when Stags ran out 4-2 winners. There have been 15 goals netted in those seven meetings, Stags lead 11-4. 

Paul Cox received a blow in the week as the injury sustained by James Jennings on Tuesday against Nuneaton proved to be a Hamstring tare; this subsequently rules the full back out for the remainder of the season.

Cox acted quickly and brought in Luton left back Greg Taylor on emergency loan, The Bedford born 23 year old looks likely to go straight into tomorrow’s starting line up. Cox will also be without Ross Dyer and Jake Speight- the duo the only others un-available for tomorrow’s match.

Over in the other camp, Lambs caretaker boss Dale Belford who will keep the reigns until the season’s end after Marcus Law’s dismissal is without full back Scott Barrow but is boosted by the loan signing of 19 year old midfielder Max Harrop. 

Tomorrow’s encounter is an all ticket affair so PLEASE DO NOT TRAVEL WITHOUT A TICKET – instead, book your seat on your sofa, in your office etc and log onto our MM-LIVE page from 2pm – you can also catch coverage on Takeover Radio 106.9FM at the same time.

We’ll be keeping a close eye on the other scores as per usual and you can get involved with the show by tweeting @mtfcmatters or texting 07804 15 66 37 – during the build up we’ll be asking what will be the critical factor in our final push for the title.

COME ON YOU STAGS!

The views 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 writes...

Fixture:  Mansfield Town V Nuneaton Town
Competition: Blue Square Bet Premier – Game #30 [Re-Arranged]
Venue: The One Call Stadium
Date & Time: Tuesday 26th March 2013 – 7.45pm
Match Referee: Michael Bull (Essex)
Attendance: 2,384 (82)

Come on then folks, complete the well known catchphrase... ‘What do point’s make?’.... That’s right PRIZES! Louis Briscoe’s second half free kick last night at the One Call Stadium kept Stags on course for the most desired prize of all, promotion back to the football league – the three vital points moving keeping Stags in second place and moving them to a single point behind leaders Kidderminster with three huge games in hand.

One of the best pieces of advice I’ve been given is ‘Never walk forwards whilst looking over your shoulder’ – Kidderminster with time running out and only a slender lead are looking over their shoulder at what we’re doing all the time and at some stage will slip, exactly like they did last night as Woking held them to a two all draw. Our fate, is in OUR hands – no other club has that precious factor.

Naturally we can’t get carried away yet as this season will take another twist, another pivotal turn before it reaches it outcome, we just have to focus on the task ahead and not become compliant – Destiny can be taken away from you if you take your eye off the ball for just a split second!

If our tenure in the Conference has taught us anything, it’s the fact that success doesn’t come to those with a reputation, those with arrogance – just ask Luton. It comes from accepting and adapting too any situation you find yourself in. To be a winner, a success, you MUST be prepared to graft, to overcome any obstacles put in your way by your doubters, competitors and rivals. You have to rise from every fall and be prepared to go again – hold onto what makes you strong, rather than revealing what makes you weak.

If you can relate to that then you’ll hopefully understand my point, I’m not trying to be a kill-joy or trample over your dreams - humble folk succeed, arrogant folk falter. Last night was a prime example of grafting away, being determined and overcoming an obstacle – Nuneaton were never going to roll over and have their bellies tickled like the proverbial dog just because we’re Mansfield Town going for the title, they were fighting their own battle.

Chances came and went, sometimes being spurned by a lack of confidence or that killer instinct, things didn’t drop and often, Lee Burge the Nuneaton keeper found himself the villain of our piece by keeping us out. What we did was what we do well, kept on running, kept on battling and that’s why Briscoe’s drilled free kick found its way in – I’d take eight more games like that! Points matter, performances not so much.

The result was justified not only for our battling effort on the pitch but also for our community work ethic off the pitch – twenty odd supporters on Sunday, seventy odd on Monday, all turning up with shovels, wheelbarrows and brushes to get the game on. Well done to all involved, a big three points is down to YOU and a big V sign to the weather – an obstacle trying to banish our dream.

Paul Cox made no changes to the side which last played 11 days prior at Forest Green due to the adverse weather, skipper Adam Murray kept his place despite being ranked 50/50.

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

Stags began in rampant fashion as they looked to take the early lead, Lee Stevenson winning the ball from kick off after 13 seconds as he forced Neil Cartwright into an error. Slotting in Green, the front man was unable to get a shot away so again linked up with Stevenson who won the Stags a corner as he drilled in a second return in search of Green.

Adam Chapman swung in the delivery from the left hand side and saw the ball deflected behind for a second corner, this time taken by James Jennings who clipped set play saw Luke Jones thunder a header against the bar before the visitors scrambled clear.

Nuneaton put on some slight pressure on five minutes which saw Stags deal adequately with a corner and a long throw from Dave McNamee, a minute later it was Stags’ turn to come close as Stevenson glanced a free header wide from Chapman’s looping long throw.

Four minutes later Junior Daniel wasted a good chance to open the scoring as Matt Green looped in a cross, the former Macclesfield man miss-directed his header, almost as if he were attempting to return Green rather than go for goal himself.

Ex Stags loanee Louis Moult twice came close to haunting his old club for the visitors, curling a free kick over the bar on 16 minutes before hitting a tame shot at Marriott on 22, despite the opportunities for the visitors it was Stags knocking on the door with a vengeance. Three minutes later Green found space down the right hand side and again made a mockery of Nuneaton left back Stephen O’Halloran, Junior Daniel was again the man in the middle but once more failed to get his header on target. Stags won the second ball through Chapman and tried again, this time Meikle crossing for Daniel, only to see the same outcome.

Stags kept on the pressure and saw Meikle denied on the half hour before Green nodded wide four minutes later. On 36 Green broke the offside trap but was denied in a one verses one situation with Lee Burge, the Nuneaton shot stopper deflecting Green’s effort over the bar for a corner. The resulting deliver saw a Jones header cannon off the chest of Burge, before Green twice squandered the rebound, hitting the post before poking wide.

There were shouts for a penalty turned down by Referee Mike Bull with four minutes of the half remaining when Green was tugged down by Delroy Gordon, Lindon Meikle’s follow up to the second ball did earn Stags a corner which eventually broke down and the half filtered to its end.

HALF TIME: Stags 0-0 Nuneaton

The second half saw a tamer start to the first however the Stags intention to grab a goal was still evident Lee Beevers and Stevenson combined but saw the keeper collect with two minutes of the half played.

Alan Marriott then had to lunge into a sliding challenge on 50 minutes as Moult slipped in a reverse pass to Jon Adams, four minutes later a cross from Cartwright earned the visitors a corner, cleared by Jennings who had to be subsequently replaced by Ritchie Sutton after pulling his hamstring.

Matt Rhead and Louis Briscoe then entered the fray on 62 minutes for Stevenson and Daniel respectively and with-in two minutes of the duos introduction, the Stags were given the chance to take the lead. It all stemmed from Briscoe’s long pass being flicked on by Rhead for Green and the keeper fluffing his clearance and giving Stags a corner – from which Rhead was fouled by Gavin Cowan and a spot kick awarded.

Matt Green stepped up to try and give Stags the lead, however his spot kick was saved well by Lee Burge who guessed correctly to keep the sides level.

Three minutes later however the breakthrough did arrive as Green was upended on the edge of the area, Louis Briscoe took on responsibility for the free kick and drilled it low, through the wall and into the bottom corner much to the delight and, somewhat relief, of the Stags fans on a below freezing night.

Matt Rhead and Matt Green then combined on 68 minutes but were both denied by the keeper was he again pulled off the heroics, with eight minutes remaining Stags were outraged when Ritchie Sutton’s deep cross saw Rhead set up Green, his cushioned effort chalked off for offside.

Adam Chapman also scuffed a late effort however Stags professionally ran the clock down and sealed a vital three points, heading home with that warm winning feeling for the tenth game in succession, equalling an all time club record set in 1915/16 and extending that post-war record to ten matches.

FULL TIME: Stags 1-0 Nuneaton

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 & Emily Sykes write...

Tomorrow’s game certainly can’t come quick enough for us, as it’s easy to forget what part of the season we are actually at due to the weather – looking out the window you would think it was mid November, early December – alas not, there are nine games to go and the title race is still firmly on!

The irritating weather has somewhat haltered our progress and explosion-esc form which has seen Paul Cox’s men grab nine wins from as many games. Since our last fixture at Forest Green the Stags have had a ten day rest and have endured a frustrating two postponements due to the weather, tomorrow’s game is not concrete that it will be on however with the phenomenal help of volunteers from both the terraces and the RAF tomorrow’s crunch game against relegation fighting Nuneaton should go ahead as planned – great news as Stags realistically can’t afford another postponement.

With nine games to go and no sign of help from the Conference one more postponement would potentially put Mansfield into the same boat as Newport, Justin Edinburgh’s men are realistically putting in three-four game weeks from here on in which in our view at least is why the welsh club will drop off the pace. Fortunately we are blessed with a strong squad packed full of hungry players which should be enough to see us through to the end and hopefully over the finish line.

Over the last ten or so days we have kept a close eye on our rivals in our opinion Kidderminster are getting the rub of the green by snatching late and lucky goals which ultimately is putting the points on the board, Stags will have to ensure that they pick up where they left off to keep up with Kidderminster. It will go all the way and in fairness either side could win it, once again it boils down to mindset as well as natural ability.

With our game against Macclesfield postponed tomorrow night’s fixture with Nuneaton works out as a game in hand on Wrexham, so the importance of winning it and putting a little bit of distance between ourselves and those chasing is huge. Despite being at the wrong end of the table Nuneaton are a good footballing side that are on a semi decent run, with one defeat in the last eight games which includes a draw with Luton and a victory over Grimsby. Former Stags assistant Micky Moore is currently number two at Nuneaton and will know exactly know what to expect from a Paul Cox side at this stage of the season.

Fingers crossed the boys can do the business and put another three points on the board, making sure the ice doesn't trip us up at this critical stage.

These two have only met once in league action throughout history, that game coming earlier in the season as Nick Wright grabbed his first Stags goal to cancel out Connor Taylor’s opener back in early November. The sides did meet in a pre-season friendly at the beginning of last term when Nuneaton won 2-1, that too being at Nuneaton’s ground and as such, tomorrow will be the first ever meeting between the pair at the One Call Stadium. 

Despite what seems as a lifetime since our last fixture, Paul Cox has a fully fit and fresh squad. Assistant boss and Captain Adam Murray could miss out however after suffering a light clip to the ankle during the last few intense training sessions. Long term lay-offs Ross Dyer and Jake Speight will again be missing.

As Stags return to action Craig will have regular updates throughout the evening, if you’re not going then be sure to listen to Takeover Radio 106.9FM and our MM-LIVE Page to ensure you don’t miss any of the twists and turns in the gripping promotion story.

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

Craig Priest and Emily Sykes write...

As we begin to write this preview, we write in the hope that tomorrow’s game defies the odds and actually goes ahead – at this critical stage of the season we cannot afford another postponement especially after Tuesday’s late postponement against Wrexham. Some teams are having to pull in three to four game weeks to complete the season on time, all we can do though is hope as shouting at the snow to stop doesn’t work, believe us we have spent the last half an hour trying!

The match faces an 11.15am inspection which gives any volunteers which go along to help clear the pitch roughly two hours to get the game on, fingers crossed there’s a good turnout and the community spirit can shine through as we aim to keep our title charge on course. In the matter of interest we had a look at any spare dates the two clubs have should the game be called off, both clubs are free on Tuesday 9th April.

Looking out the window it doesn’t look good but let’s hope that looks can be deceiving as the players will be itching to get back to action after spending the past week watching others battle it out and gain some ground on us. We are still in great form and will be going for our tenth straight victory tomorrow which will equal a pre-war club record and more importantly keep us on course.

Of course the Stags will be aided by the fact that Southport versus Kidderminster kicks off at 1pm so in similar ways to a few weeks ago we’ll know the fate of our rivals before we kick a ball which relieves a little bit of pressure. Also tomorrow we play our game in hand on Wrexham who aren’t in league action due to their FA Trophy Final with play-off chasing Grimsby, fellow play-off chasers Forest Green are also out of action so in reality there are only two games which Stags will be looking at, Kidderminster’s trip to Southport and Newport’s trip to Stockport.

Obviously all of this is irrelative should the pitch fail it’s inspection, dig those shovels out, pump up the tyre’s on the wheel barrows and get the sweeping brushes out – let’s do our best to get this game on and then hand over to the players and let them do the business. One Team, One Community, One Dream – Project Promotion!

The two MTFC’s last met mid November as Paul Cox’s Stags surprised us all by putting in a shift and grabbing all three points, our first away league win since August 18th – how times have changed, as since that match Stags have only lost once on the road and have collected eight victories.

Matt Green opened the scoring shortly before half time before second half strikes from Lindon Meikle and the restored Luke Jones wrapped up a solid 3-0 win in the sides first ever meeting outside the football league.

These sides first met in 1997 and have since played each other 14 times, The Stags having won nine games and Macclesfield winning six, and drawing on five occasions. At the One Call Stadium Stags have been victorious five times and have been beaten only twice – the other two fixtures ending in a draw. 60 goals have been netted in total between the two, Stags lead 33-27, whilst at the One Call Stadium Stags lead 20-10.

It seems like an eternity since Stags last game however in reality it has only been seven days, once again Paul Cox has no fresh injuries to worry about.

Cox’s counterpart Steve King has two injury worries as he awaits news on Waide Fairhurst and Kieran Murtagh whilst Ryan Jackson could return following a recent spell on the sidelines.

If you can’t make it to The One Call Stadium for tomorrow’s game then be sure to join Craig via our MM-LIVE page and 106.9FM for regular updates with build up starting at 2pm.

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

Craig Priest & Emily Sykes write...

Tomorrow’s game can’t come quick enough for some and to be fair we can see why with all the expectation and the dreams of what  could follow – however for us we just want it over with. This might seem a little bit negative purely because of its importance but no matter how you look at it, nothing is won or lost tomorrow night.

Stags’ climb from mid-table mediocrity to top has been nothing short of phenomenal, to think that if we get three points tomorrow we’ll be five points clear is frightening, especially when you add in the fact of the game in hand plus reverse fixture at the One Call Stadium.

Every post we see online and every conversation we have with others about the title race has started to irritate us, winning the league can’t be decided on ifs and buts – we don’t have a divine right to take the crown, Kidderminster and tomorrow’s opponents Wrexham are the two main contenders coming after us like a hyped up lion.

If we’ve learnt anything from our previous experiences it’s that we have to stay grounded and the players have to keep working, tomorrow’s probably the toughest test we’ve faced in years as the welsh side will know the importance of having a lead on their opponents. What makes tomorrow interesting is that the game falls at somewhat fragile point for Wrexham as the fixture falls just days prior to their trip to Wembley in the FA Trophy final. A manager’s brief from a club chairman will always include winning trophies and despite the FA Trophy being branded a Mickey Mouse like competition it’s still one which would satisfy the brief – will Andy Morrell rest legs? Will he field a weakened side? Will he concentrate on the greatest price of promotion back to the Football League and more importantly will the players have their eye on Sunday’s cup final.

We remember two years ago when Stags were in the FA Trophy Final, the day as a whole holds memories for everyone despite the final outcome. Craig recalls the match before Wembley, a trip to Bath City. Having fought back to beat Gateshead the previous week the players looked like they were going to find some momentum and end the season in style, what they did was the exact opposite as 99% of those involved didn’t want to do themselves any harm and miss the final. After the match Craig spoke to a player who shall not be named the player told him that none of the lads cared about getting a result at Bath as they all wanted to be fit for selection at Wembley and as such vowed, as a unit, not to slide tackle or run beyond a pace which could potentially cause them injury. There was one player that didn’t agree with this in Steven Istead, he made a slide tackle and got sent off and therefore missed the Wembley final – we wonder what he’d do if he got the chance to play that game again.

The point of that reflection is that sometimes if you dangle a big enough carrot in front of someone’s face they will become distracted, we Wrexham be the same? As a result of this we must play our game to force them into a physiological battle, do they make a challenge make a run or do they take that split second of hesitance ahead of the next game. We said a few weeks ago that it was only results that matter, whilst this is still true and always will be at this stage you have to be mentally prepared for any situation you might find yourself in – for Stags this starts tomorrow.

Don’t be suckered in to potential distractions or outcomes just keep on with what has served us well so far and enjoy the ride.

The two sides last locked horns in the penultimate game of last season at The One Call Stadium, where second place Wrexham were clearly falling off the rails and loosing pace rapidly. Anthony Howell opened the scoring early on before Alan Marriott joined the you-tube legacy of goal scoring goal keepers netting his first ever goal and Stags’ 50th home goal of the season on a terribly wet night.

In the reverse fixture at the Racecourse Ground in late September Stags ran out 3-1 winners in what proved to be a tough and tight encounter during which both teams saw a player dismissed.

In total the sides have met 85 times down the years a relationship which begin back in 1932. Wrexham have recorded 31 wins to Mansfield’s 33 and have netted 121 goals to our 127 in total. Meanwhile at Wrexham Stags have only recorded seven victories to Wrexham’s 20 which includes the dragon’s FA Trophy first round triumph in 2008 in terms of goals at Wrexham the welsh side lead 73-38.

Another simple one for Paul Cox for this one as he’ll probably name an un-changed line-up, however he’ll be sweating over the fitness of Junior Daniel who had to be taken off early on at Forest Green on Friday. Former Wrexham striker Jake Speight will probably miss out along with Ross Dyer, however he’ll probably play some part in the reverse team’s match with Grimsby on Wednesday at Coronation Park 3pm.

If you can’t make the biggest game of the Stags season so far then be sure to join Craig for full match commentary from around 7pm at the Racecourse Ground. Simply tune your radio’s into 106.9FM or log on to our MM-LIVE Page as we bring you every second of the action.

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

Craig Priest and Emily Sykes write...

Fixture:  Forest Green Rovers V Mansfield Town
Competition: Blue Square Bet Premier – Game #40
Venue: The New Lawn
Date & Time: Friday 15th March 2013 – 7.45pm
Match Referee: Wayne Barratt (Worcestershire)
Attendance: 1,109 (166)

Oh it’s a great time to be a Stags fan at the moment, we always dream about our side taking the title and earning promotion but dreams have seldom had a chance to become reality, however following last night’s victory in Nailsworth and today’s set of Blue Square Bet Premier results, it looks like Paul Cox’s side have the Green Light on project promotion.

The final five minutes were a scare and saw Stags endure some nail biting moments, you’d better get used to that on the edge feeling because the way this season’s finale is shaping up, moments like that will be frequent – but do you know what, it all adds to the drama, the thrill of the chase.

Nine games to go and our destiny is in our hands, it’s ours to lose. Our only threats in our opinion are Kidderminster, the question is do they have the mentality to see this out – having said that, do we?! Only time will tell and no matter how much we write about whose got the tougher run in or whose beginning to stutter, only the football will reveal the real outcome.  

Nine wins from as many matches, to take the crowd – we need to make this continue, performance will be a part of it soon, but now we’ve got the gap in points at the top, our task is simple – extend our lead over those chasing which we CAN do on Tuesday, and then just keep on running – The green light.... MEANS GO!

Paul Cox stuck with the same side with triumphed over Grimsby midweek.

LINE-UP [4-4-1-1]: Alan Marriott, Lee Beevers, Luke Jones, John Dempster, James Jennings, Lindon Meikle, Adam Murray (C), Adam Chapman, Junior Daniel, Lee Stevenson, Matt Green
SUBSTITUTES: Ritchie Sutton, Nick Wright, Matt Rhead, Louis Briscoe, Anthony Howell

Fresh from their midweek win over Grimsby Stags started well as they looked for an early goal at The New Lawn for the second season in succession, Adam Chapman hurled in two early long throws however the home defence dealt with them adequately enough.

Two minutes later Chapman was involved again as his deep free-kick nearly caught Sam Russell aghast as it nestled on the top of the net, seconds later Matt Green was unlucky not to latch on to Adam Murray’s through ball following strong work in the centre of the park.

Forest Green then enjoyed their first chance on five minutes as full debutant and youngster Wes Burns tore down the left hand side leaving Lee Beevers and Lindon Meikle in his wake before blazing wide of Marriott’s goal.

Ten minutes later the Stags were stretched again as Kieron Forbes embarked on a box to box surge, however the Forest Green midfielder unleashed a somewhat disappointing finish which trickled into the hands of a well positioned Marriott.

Intricate work between Beevers, Stevenson and Meikle set-up Adam Chapman for an effort on 16 minutes however the impressive midfielder failed to continue his goal scoring streak with Sam Russell well positioned.

The game then changed on 26 minutes as Louis Briscoe replaced the below par Junior Daniel, it took just three minutes for Briscoe to set the opening goal as he weaved forward before poking the loose ball into the path of Lindon Meikle. The England C winger’s effort was tame but found its way into the back of the net as Eddie Oshodi converted the ball beyond his own keeper.

Four minutes later Luke Jones was solid in the air to head away a Forest Green free-kick before Alan Marriott was forced to push a dangerous effort from Burns around the post for a corner.

Louis Briscoe nearly doubled the Stags lead with five minutes of the first half remaining, his dangerous effort from Meikle’s assist was fumbled by Russell who wasn’t expecting as much pace and power on the effort. The half drew to a close with Stags on top as Jones saw a header from a Jennings free-kick cleared off the line.

HALF TIME: Forest Green Rovers 0-1 Stags

After the break Paul Cox’s side kicked on as they searched for a second goal, their determination paid off too as the much sought after goal came just three minutes after the whistle. It all stemmed from good work in the midfield from Matt Green, the strikers’ decision to stay in a deep role meant the Rovers defence stepped up and created a large pocket of space. With Green in position, Stevenson spotted the gap and went for it, the end result was clinical as he latched onto Green’s release and calmly slotted beyond the on rushing keeper to double Stags’ lead.

The hosts were desperate for a replay and came close on 59 minutes as substitute Matty Taylor thundered a 22 yard effort against the bar, two minutes later a dominant surge from Wes Burns had Stags scampering however a strong challenge from Jones soon brought an end to the youngsters run.

Anthony Howell then replaced Stevenson on 65 minutes as Paul Cox opted for five across midfield, this didn’t stop Forest Green from creating openings though and they came close again a minutes later as Burns dragged a shot wide.

Ten minutes later Matt Rhead was introduced for Green as Cox looked for some outlet; it didn’t come as the hosts remained in control but failed to make the most of a series of corner, Jones again impressing against his former club as he rose to head away every single set play Forest Green could muster.

The hosts then wasted a guilt edge chance on 83 minutes following a corner; centre half Aarran Racine dragging wide from close range with Stags not quick to close him down. Two minutes later the Nailsworth based outfit set up a tense finish as James Norwood slotted past Alan Marriott following a pacey counter attack.

At 2-1 Stags were holding on and seconds after the re-start Alan Marriott produced a fine stop to deny Norwood a second with a point blank range header, had the ball gone in however the goal wouldn’t have stood as the referee had already blown for a foul.

Adam Murray continued to throw himself into challenge after challenge and collected a yellow card for his efforts, not that he cared as the clock soon ran down and Stags collected their ninth straight win to move top of the blue square bet premier table.

FULL TIME: Forest Green Rovers 1-2 Stags   

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

Craig Priest & Emily Sykes write...

With ten games between now and the end of the season by now the conference title is usually one or two win away from being sealed – this term it’s entirely different with at least three sides in with a realistic chance of taking the crown. Following Tuesday’s crunch victory over Grimsby at The One Call Stadium we moved joint top and tomorrow have a real chance of reaching the top against Forest Green Rovers.

It’ll be a tough trip for Paul Cox’s Stags especially in front of the TV cameras against a side who not so long ago were fighting for the title themselves, whilst it’s not mathematically impossible for Forest Green, their sights are set on competing for a play-off place after a recent slump in results.

Dave Hockaday’s side have got some quality players but maybe not a big enough squad to compete with ourselves Wrexham and Kidderminster, despite this opinion the growing in stature club will be eager to take three points off us, a team they consider to be rivals.

Against Grimsby on Tuesday we showed that we can battle when it matters, Paul Cox said afterwards that the performance wasn’t to standard it’s refreshing to see that the manager, the person that realistically has all our expectations on his shoulders, is remaining grounded and pushing us to do better. We’ve had some good results of late hence why we’re leading every statistical table you can imagine, however we have to remain focused once again and ensure this advantage of sitting back and watching on Saturday is used to full effect.

Since the turn of the year we’ve been the ones doing the chasing but tomorrow have a prime opportunity to flip the coin entirely and, should we get the result we are looking for aka our ninth straight win, we’ll make others step up their efforts to chase us.

It won’t be easy for the others either, leaders Wrexham are at home to Luton who despite being in lumber this term still have the ability to cause problems when they want to. Third place Kidderminster are also at home as they take on Tamworth whilst fourth place Newport host play-off chasing Macclesfield.

They’ll be twists and they’ll be turns, whatever happens it’s still Mansfield who hold the most control over their destiny let’s hope tomorrow they just keep doing what they have been doing – Winning!

The two promotion rivals last locked horns in mid-October at the One Call Stadium, a place where Stags hold a 100% league win record over there Nailsworth based counterparts. It wasn’t a classic to watch as Forest Green, then second in the division, spurned numerous chances and were made to pay in the last minute as Matt Rhead thumped home a header following another Exodus Geohaghon throw.

Last term’s visit ended level at the New Lawn, Ross Dyer’s 15th second opener cancelled out midway through the first half before Anthony Howell was sent off on the stroke of half time on a scorching November’s afternoon.

The New Lawn hasn’t been a happy hunting ground for Stags in recent years, they’ve only ever record one win – a brace from Luke Jones, plus goals from Jake Speight and Rob Duffy overturned a 1-0 half time score line as the Stags ran out 4-1 winners in January 2010.

In total Stags lead the wins 6-3 and the goals 17-9, whilst at the New Lawn, Forest Green have two wins to one but trail narrowly on the goals 6-5. 

Paul Cox could name an unchanged side once more following Tuesday’s huge win over Grimsby, however despite defeat for the reserves in Hull last night, Ben Hutchinson will have put himself in line for a start behind Matt Green in attack as he again grabbed a goal.

Forest Green boss Dave Hockaday could hand a full debut to loanee Wes Burns after striker came from the bench to net the winner at Southport on Tuesday night in the 92 minute. 

Get the best of both worlds tomorrow, and stick the telly on Premier Sports but hit the mute button! Joining Craig in the commentary box is guest Scott Rogers, the boys will bring you build-up, followed by full match commentary from 7pm via our MM-LIVE page and Takeover Radio 106.9FM.

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

Craig Priest writes

Fixture: Mansfield Town FC Vs Grimsby Town FC
Competition: Blue Square Bet Premier – Game #25 [Re-Arranged]
Venue: The One Call Stadium
Date & Time: Tuesday 12th March 2013 – 3.00pm
Match Referee: Graham Horwood (Luton)
Attendance: 3,896 (806)

Another epic night at the One Call Stadium as this title chasing adventure continues to unfold is over and done with, once more it’s one well remember for a long time with a buzzing atmosphere, well contested display and THAT out of this world strike by Adam Chapman, what a signing he looks to be.

The three points, achieved thanks to Chapman’s aforementioned belter and Matt Rhead’s thunderous header, puts Paul Cox’s men up to second in the table, joint top with Wrexham who came from behind at Lincoln to cling onto the top spot with a somewhat desperate grasp. A victory which showed that Stags can not only battle with but beat their rivals also broke a post war club record for consecutive victories, eight back to back wins breaks a record set in 1962 and matched again in 1991 – to those who said Paul Cox wasn’t the right man for the job at the end of the reverse fixture in August and to our rivals who underestimate Stags, read it and weep!

The season isn’t over by any stretch of the imagination and the hard work demonstrated last night and since our up-turn in form needs to be repeated game after game after game, however with Stags now level on form with Wrexham and reports suggesting their beginning to lose their focus, next Tuesday’s game is going to be one hell of a fixture and could be the night a dream becomes one step closer to reality, first though we have to focus on Friday’s trip to Forest Green.

Last night as mentioned was a great night to be a part of, the place bounced from start to finish and the banter was a good as the football – at 0-0 there was a stoppage in play (James Jennings’ head injury) and the visiting fans hurled taunts of the 4-1 defeat at Blundell Park, at which point I looked across the press desk to see a Grimsby journalist shaking his head and say “that’s going to come back and haunt you” – it sure did at the end as the chants of “top of the league and you ****** it up” bellowed back!

Paul Cox was rather humble after the full time whistle, watching his interview this morning it’s interesting to see to that he played down our performance and insist his players can give more and perform better – it’s this grounded attitude which sets us apart from the rest and, if it’s the same within the dressing room, will be the difference to taking the crown or taking part in the lottery. Ten games to go – ten more cup finals... BRING THEM ON!

Paul Cox unsurprisingly stuck with the same starting line up that cruised past Stockport on Saturday but did tweak the bench as he welcomed back Louis Briscoe and Anthony Howell.

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

Both sides started well with both sets of supporters providing a vocal backdrop on a chilly March evening. Despite the chilling temperatures the two sides went toe to toe and moved the ball well but seldom did anything with it during the opening exchanges.

With five played Luke Jones sparked the first of two chances for Stags inside a minute as he won the ball on the half way line from former Stags hero Craig Disley. Adam Murray then took over and swept the ball wide for Matt Green, the Stags front man connecting tamely and allowing the Grimsby keeper James McKeown to collect following a give and go with Meikle.

From the resulting goal kick Meikle battled to win the ball back and soon was weaving his way forwards, poking through to Stevenson who then picked out Green on the right – the front man’s driven cross blocked for a throw. Adam Chapman’s long bullet hooked off the line by Shaun Pearson with an air of uncertainty.

Four minutes later the Marrieners found a pocket of space on the right hand side which allowed Ross Hannah to deliver a teasing ball in search of Andy Cook, Lee Beevers nipped in bravely to nod back to Alan Marriott. On twelve minutes Marriott was again tested as a short corner teed up Disley for a long range effort, Marriott well behind the venomous effort and, despite spilling the shot, did enough to put off Hannah who blazed over the bar from four yards as the offside flag went up.

Fluent movement from Stags saw Junior Daniel send in a cross on 15 minutes before seconds later a slip from Jennings gave Hannah opportunity to shoot, the loanee forward denied by Alan Marriott who was quick off his line to narrow the angle.

Marriott was called upon again on 23 minutes as Grimsby broke at a canter following a Stags throw in, the initial shot was again spilt by Marriott who was making his 150th league appearance, however Jennings was on hand to mop up and remove the danger.    

Stags continued to ride their luck a little as the half neared the end, Ross Hannah again denied by Marriott on the half hour mark before being felled by Dempster on the stroke of half time saw the visitors awarded a free kick just to the right of the box which Luke Jones dominantly headed clear.

HALF TIME: Stags 0-0 Grimsby

Mansfield upped their pace a gear as the second half began, perhaps buoyed by the news Lincoln were beating Wrexham meaning they were currently top of the division and eager to stay there. On 48 minutes excellent cross park football from Meikle, Chapman and then Murray picked out Daniel who drove forward and shot narrowly wide of the target.

There was danger four minutes later as a free kick from Sam Hatton on the half way line took a deflection towards the bottom corner, Alan Marriott however proved he was still agile and tipped the ball around the post for a corner which was eventually cleared despite prolonged pressure from the attacking visitors.

Grimsby had a golden chance on 53 minutes when Chapman clipped Hannah on the edge of the box, Sam Hatton’s hit though failed to set off any fireworks as it cannoned off the wall before the impressive Murray belted the ball away.

Matt Rhead then replaced Lee Stevenson on 56 as Paul Cox opted to go 4-4-2, Rhead’s impact was impressive as he teed up Meikle and Green for a series of chances before opening the scoring eight minutes later.

It all began when Rhead send Meikle on his way down the right hand side, a move which earned a corner. James Jennings’ delivery was pinpoint for Rhead who rose above the crowd to thunder home a header and subsequently peel off and jump into the crowd to celebrate – simply great scenes to whiteness.

Straight from the restart it was clear that the visitors were deflating like a balloon as Junior Daniel pounced on a poor back-pass, his attempted clip was plucked out of the air by a hastily back tracking McKeown who could only watch on seconds later as Green fired wide, again pouncing on a defensive mistake.

Louis Briscoe then replaced Meikle on 65 minutes and was impressive nine minutes later in earning a corner, unfortunately a repeat of the previous corner wasn’t possible despite huge pressure as Jones was judged to have fouled the keeper.

With seven minutes to go the game was wrapped up as Adam Chapman belted home. Adam Murray sparked the move on the half wide line as he won back the ball before clipped down the left channel for Green. It was he who made the assist nipping past his marker to roll the ball to the edge of the area for whoever wanted it, Adam Chapman arrived from nowhere to smash home on his left boot at the first time of asking – a truly exquisite strike.

A later Grimsby corner had Stags temporary worried before Luke Jones slammed clear, late challenges by Dempster on substitute Richard Brodie and Andy Cook added to the spice of the fixture and ensured Alan Marriott kept a clean sheet. The full time whistle brought the news that Wrexham had turned things around at Lincoln to remain top of the table, not that Stags cared as they entered the record books and sealed another precious three points.

FULL TIME: Stags 2-0 Grimsby

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