Craig Priest and Emily Sykes write...

Fixture: Mansfield Town FC Vs Wrexham AFC
Competition: Blue Square Bet Premier – Game #46
Venue: The One Call Stadium
Time & Date: Saturday 20th April 2013 – 5.15pm
Match Referee: Nicholas Kingsley (Wickford, Essex)
Attendance: 6,394 (142)

Tears now are becoming a bit of a habit for a Mansfield Town supporter, in recent years they have been tears of sorrow, but yesterday at last they were tears of joy as our beloved Stags were crowned Champions and made it back to the football league.

The memories of Tuesday 29th April 2008 have finally been banished, no more remembering the rain and the heartbreak, no more nightmares of that ball floating over Jason White’s head. What we have now is a cherished picture, in front of over 6,000 Stags fans with the sun beaming onto the One Call Stadium pitch and champagne flying – Adam Murray held a loft the Blue Square Bet Premier trophy, dreams do come true!

From that very first game back in 2008 at Ebbsfleet to the full time whistle yesterday the journey has been incredible and has taught us so many lessons and has given us a wide variety of experiences. On reflection winning the way we did is more precious and more valuable than ‘smashing the league’, that phrase frustrated us in the summer as its arrogant and if we’ve learnt anything from this experience, arrogance gets you nowhere. Our success will be remembered for the hard work, desire, willingness and all round enthusiasm to defy the odds and be the best. It just goes to show that no matter what situation you find yourself in you should never give up – Mansfield Town never gave up and by doing so have delivered a precious moment never to be forgotten.

You have to take your metaphorical hat off to the Chairman John Radford for keeping faith in Paul Cox, who now arguably is our greatest ever Manager. Back when we were getting battered by Grimsby, Ebbsfleet, Dartford etc it looked like last season was a one off, however the Chairman seemed to believe as did the hardened supporters deep down. Upon accepting the Mansfield job Cox gave a message to the fans which said ‘success is built on strong foundations’ by sticking with Cox during that turbulent spell Mansfield have got solid foundations and in the space of 703 days since his appointment success is in the bag.

We are both in agreement that last term’s tough to take defeat in the play-off semi final has actually been of benefit, the players who still remain at the club have used the game as inspiration to go that one step further whilst those that have come in have bought into the philosophy and have helped us take that definitive step.

At some point something clicked within that dressing room and we went from the side which nobody gave a second glance to, to the side which made everyone stand up and watch in awe. Nobody knows what that magic formula is except for Paul Cox, thank goodness he’s feeding it to Mansfield Town Football Club. From all at Mansfield Matters a heartfelt thank you.

Last time we were in the Football League we were a side with so much hate and so many dark clouds hanging over us, in some ways we were a laughing stock – this time around thanks to John Radford, Paul Cox and his players we are coming back a club full of love, full of hope and desire, there isn’t a dark cloud in sight.

It was a tough decision for Paul Cox yesterday however he stuck with his guns and fielded the same side which dramatically beat Hereford mid week.

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, Jake Speight, Anthony Howell, Matt Rhead, Junior Daniel.

Adam Murray led out the Stags to a momentous roar from the Mansfield Town supporters and within the opening two minutes the whole of the UK could have heard the delight had one of the early chances gone in. Adam Chapman’s long throw from the right put a young Wrexham side under considerable strain which saw keeper Andy Coughlin palm away John Dempster’s powerful header for a corner. The Stags defender was close again from Murray’s resulting corner but was this time blocked by the visiting defence.

Lee Stevenson has been like the constant flame in Stags’ fire and five minutes later registered two chances in as many minutes, his first snap shot blocked by Leon Clowes before keeper Coughlin was positioned well to keep out the lively midfielder’s left footed belter following a delicate Adam Murray clip.

The Stags captain knew exactly what promotion meant for the Mansfield fans and came close to breaking the deadlock himself on 13 minutes as Chapman’s long throw sat up nicely for him on the edge of the area, Andy Coughlin again on hand for the visitors.

After a short spell of pressure from the welsh side Mansfield came close again on 16 minutes as Green sent the ball into Lindon Meikle’s path, despite good footwork the wide man was unable to get his shot on target and the ball went astray for a throw. Stags weren’t done though as Beevers and Briscoe combined to win possession back, the Latter’s dangerous cross saw former Stag Dave Artell clear practically on the line.

The early atmosphere was beginning to take a nervy twist however the players remained calm and confident as they searched for the opener, Murray’s 22nd minute free kick nearly saw an own goal before runs from both Stevenson and Green broke down.

The offside flag spared Stags’ blushes on the half hour mark as Dele Adebola blocked Greg Taylor’s attempted clearance on the edge of the Stags box, James Colbeck dragged wide from ten yards however he was in an offside position anyway.

Ten minutes later and the deadlock was broken as Louis Briscoe was tripped inside the area by Robbie Evans, Matt Green kept his cool to convert the subsequent penalty and ultimately put Mansfield Town back in the Football League.

HALF TIME: Stags 1-0 Wrexham

It mattered little about the score at Aggborough with Mansfield ahead however one goal could change everything, Stags defending well in the opening exchanges to keep Adebola and Cieslewicz quiet.

Mansfield weren’t content with the one goal and searched for a second, Chapman came close inside the area on 54 minutes however the hungry Stags had the ever reliable Lee Beevers to thank two minutes later as he bravely challenged the advancing Rob Ogleby as a Murray corner painfully broke down.

Another Murray corner on the hour saw Dempster nod across the area for Stevenson, he was twice blocked before firing wide from a narrow angle – no matter what Mansfield tried the penny just wouldn’t drop a second time.

Wrexham shot shopper Coughlin then saved well from a lively Briscoe on 66 minutes, Alan Marriott also called into action seconds later holding on to a free header from Declan Walker following a deep freekick.

Time ticks slowly on and Stags kept the tightest of grasps on that critical one goal lead, Marriott again made a crucial contribution on 76 minutes with a sublime challenge on Wrexham substitute Bradley Reid outside of the Stags shot stoppers box.

Each minute seemed like an hour but Stags battled on through soaking up everything Wrexham could throw at them those final few seconds, despite the fact they were down to ten men following the sending off of Dave Artell. The brave challenges and desire to never stop running was rewarded as Nicholas Kingsley brought his whistle to his lips ending the game and indeed Mansfield’s time in the conference.

FULL TIME: Stags 1-0 Wrexham – MANSFIELD TOWN ARE PROMOTED BACK TO THE FOOTBALL LEAGUE

The noise after the whistle was phenomenal, we were sat apart for this one but both watched on through tears of joy having witnessed a dream come true. As the various chants of Yellows, Champions and Paul Cox is our king bellowed out we watched with smiles wider than the Channel tunnel as the players and staff collected their winner’s medals.

The last man up was Adam Murray, the skipper and Player Assistant boss has Amber and Blue blood running through his veins. It’s no secret that Murray’s career has been turbulent especially in those early days at Derby County – his story has been an incredible one as has Mansfield’s, there really is no other player, person or man that we would of liked to see hold that trophy aloft.

Congratulations to all the players and all the staff it has been an honour, a privilege and a pleasure to follow and share the journey with you. Remember the time and remember the day for the rest of your lives – MANSFIELD TOWN FOOTBALL CLUB: BLUE SQUARE BET PREMIER CHAMPIONS 2012/13.

Thanks for reading, see you in pre-season when we begin our next chapter...all together now WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS MY FRIENDS...

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:  Hereford United  FC Vs Mansfield Town FC
Competition: Blue Square Bet Premier – Game #21 [Re-Arranged]
Venue: Edger Street
Date & Time: Tuesday 16th April 2013 – 7.45pm
Match Referee: Lee Swabey
Attendance: 2,141 (627)

You know even if the world’s greatest writers from throughout history all got together in one room and were told to look back on last night’s events, I don’t think they’d manage to do it justice. It was a night which took all the twists and turns of a gripping TV murder case, mixed in with the emotion of a will they won’t they love saga.

The task was simple, win to keep our title hopes alive. However after the slip at Braintree on Saturday the confidence had been severely dented and when hosts Hereford grabbed an eight minute lead after some, in truth, woeful defending which was relegation like defending – Stags we’re on the ropes, taking the last breath and watching on as their blood drained away.

Something inside must have burnt away as the travelling support kept singing, hoping that a song could spark their side back into life, the reward coming on 37 minutes as marksman Green nodded Mansfield level. An even keel gave Stags hope and despite scares from a surging Hereford side, they stood strong and following the introduction of Rhead especially in 64 minutes, charged at the Bulls with a battering ram, like the police on a drugs raid!

Controversy ensued as Stags saw efforts palmed off the line, decisions go against them and efforts land wide of the mark. The clocked ticked down and Stags’ hope seemingly faded, yet they never gave up – they showed the mark of champions, fighting until the end to get the better sweet ending the so desperately craved and duly deserved.

I can still picture it now, Alan Marriott with a long punt forward, Matt Rhead rises above Luke Graham and flicks the ball on. Matt Green drops off the shoulder of his marker and swings his lethal boot at the inviting ball, it happened in a split second yet in that instant seemed to take an eternity to go in – CRASH, the ball hits the back of the net, Stags are 2-1 up and the pandemonium begins.  

The fans spill out onto the pitch as Green wheels away leaving a distraught Hereford and a heartbroken Kidderminster in his wake. The players and bench sprint over to join the celebrations as Matt Rhead, the man who changed the game and set the most precious goal of our recent history, jumps onto a steward’s back – his emotion roar and bursting at the seams.

For the rest of my life I will remember those scenes of jubilation, the belief of players and supporters, the desire to get that goal and the bitter sweet moment when we stop our destiny falling into the hands of others. We’ve worked hard for it and came strong when it mattered – ONE MORE STEP now.

As the ball nestled in the net late last night, all that angst and emotion came flooding out – from that night we stood in the rain and heard we’d been relegated, to the final minute against Darlington & York and the subsequent heartache. The mine-field of splinter filled wooden benches we’ve sat on at Grounds and watched some part-timer stuff us 4-0 to the cracked, weed overgrowing terraces in the freezing cold – each and every game we’ve been there and hoped that one day, our day will come – because of last night’s heroics, we could be back in the Football League by 7pm On Saturday 20th April, spookily the same date as Stags last sealed promotion at the One Call Stadium, known then as Field Mill.

We are NOT there yet, we HAVE to get a result against Wrexham on Saturday, keep levelled headed folks and do what you did that night, channel that passion into noise – BELIEVE as our day will come, it’s so close now, BRING IT ON!

Paul Cox made two changes from the side which slipped up at Braintree on Saturday, Adam Chapman and Lindon Meikle came in as Anthony Howell and Junior Daniel went out. There was also a shock return to the bench for Jake Speight, having played no football since his injury in January Paul Cox was taking a huge gamble.

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, Jake Speight, Anthony Howell, Matt Rhead, Junior Daniel

Stags, knowing they needed to respond from Saturday’s unacceptable defeat, began well and should have scored inside the opening minute as the lightening Green latched onto Meikle’s through ball before being denied by the legs of the excellent James Bittner. Meikle was first to the second ball and again teed up a hungry Green, only for the front man to be denied again by Bittner who smothered the ball into his chest.

Mansfield’s fiery start had the visiting fans of 627 bouncing, the sang louder as Green again saw an effort stopped by Bittner a minute later and then a Briscoe cross go agonisingly astray on four minutes.

The visiting Staggies were then silenced four minutes later as Hereford went against the script and opened the scoring, with a little help of some lacklustre defending from Stags as they allowed Chris Sharp to cut the ball inside left and gift Ryan Bowman space to drill home from twelve yards.

Stags were on the ropes as Hereford, spurred on by their opening goal and the on-watching Kidderminster players, came forward in search of a second. John Dempster came to the rescue on twenty minutes, slamming away a Chris Bush long throw before Stags were dealt a bitter blow as Lee Beevers tussled with Marley Watkins and stayed down in pain. It was clear that Beevers’ had again dislocated his shoulder and was in sheer agony, despite the best efforts of Simon Murphy the Stags physio and the Hereford staff, Beevers was unable to continue and as he headed down the tunnel, replaced by Ritchie Sutton, shed a tear as the battle with injuries had finally beaten him.

The blow had taken Stags’ best player from the game and Paul Cox’s men were disorientated, allowing Watkins and Sharp far too much space to put crosses in whilst in midfield, Adam Chapman looked uninterested in closing down his Hereford counterparts as the Bulls began to take the game by its horns.

Mansfield survived two quick set-plays on 35 minutes and were then back in the game two minutes later. Green and Meikle were again excellent down the left hand side, the latter driving backwards, forwards, inside then out before floating in the cross from the bye line, which Green rose to nod in goal 25 of his season and, more critically, get Mansfield back level.

Adam Murray took one for the team with five minutes of the half remaining as he clearly rammed the advancing Chris Sharp off the ball, picking up just a booking. With seconds of the half remaining John Dempster was again the hero as he cleared an effort from Josh O’Keefe off the line, the second ball fell back for O’Keefe who was denied by Marriott who was also fouled by the Hereford man.

HALF TIME: Hereford 1-1 Stags

The hosts continued to pile on the pressure at the start of the second half although the Stags fans failed to stop singing, a powerful run from O’Keefe on 48 minutes was eventually halted, Dempster also nodded clear a succession of corners on 49 minutes before the lively Sam Clucas fired wide a minute later.

Matt Green & Lindon Meikle were again the unstoppable pair on 53 minutes as quick passes saw Green doubly denied by Bittner and the offside flag.

Paul Cox then made the game changing substitution on 62 minutes as Matt Rhead came on in place of Stevenson, Hereford were unsure how to handle Rhead and with Stags in a flat 4-4-2 now, something clicked as they began their quest for a winner.

Two minutes later Greg Taylor sparked pressure as he whipped in from the left hand side, Green kept the ball alive but the move broke down seconds later as Murray tried just too hard as he attempted to pick out Briscoe on the right.

Controversy arose on 65 minutes when Taylor again crossed for Green; this time an ambitious effort looked to have crossed the line however it wasn’t given as Bittner looked to have palmed away. Lindon Meikle and Matt Rhead also registered efforts but couldn’t find the target.

Hereford looked dangerous on the attack and were handed an unfair free kick on 73 minutes as Meikle tussled with his man on the edge of the Stags box. Sam Clucas stepped up and wasn’t far off finding the back of Marriott’s net.

Mansfield, attacking like contenders on Gladiators Gauntlet, saw further efforts from Rhead, Meikle and substitute Junior Daniel kept out before Alan Marriott made a critical stop five minutes from time, getting his body behind the ball to deny Watkins who sprinted from box to box as Stags threw pretty much everything forward.

It didn’t look like it was going to come as Stags again charged but were knocked back, however the Stags fans remained focused and the players too, getting the just reward in the first of four added minutes, just seconds after Adam Murray’s shot had bounced agonisingly wide of the mark from a Chapman free kick.

The ball had ran all the way back to Marriott who restarted play with a long punt up park, Rhead flicked the ball on and Matt Green peeled off his marker with the sharpest of spins. The ball sat up for Green who pulled back his striking leg and let fly, beating the advancing Bittner in the Hereford goal and sending the Stags fans into complete ecstasy. The scenes were wonderful to whiteness as the floodgates of passion burst open.

The full time whistle then blew to more celebrations as supporters danced in the terraces, bellowing their songs deep into the night. Paul Cox and his player sprinted onto the pitch and the entire squad danced with those believing supporters. One more game now! It sends a shiver down my spine – GET IN!

FULL TIME: Hereford 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 & Emily Sykes write...

Fixture:  Braintree Town FC Vs Mansfield Town FC
Competition: Blue Square Bet Premier – Game #45
Venue: Amlin Stadium
Date & Time: Saturday 13th April 2013 – 7.45pm
Match Referee: Brett Huxtable (Devon)
Attendance: 1,755 (1,200 approx.)

Yesterday morning the sun shone brightly as we headed out of Mansfield and towards Braintree, inside we had that warm hopeful feeling that our five year stay in the Conference would come to an end, however that early morning sun had turned to rain as the second half filtered to an end, Stag’ hope of a party drained away as Braintree ran out 2-1 winners.

Naturally the defeat was hard to take and in some aspects the defeat felt like that terrible night when Stags were relegated in the first place. All that hope, all that expectation just vanished in an instant and over 1,200 Stags fans exited the ground wondering if it would ever be. On the way home Kidderminster made it worse by narrowly beating Wrexham in the 5:15pm kick off – in our opinion what Kidderminster do is irrelevant, the ball is still in our court we just have less space to swing our racket and smash ourselves back into the promise land.

It’s simple really we have to win our remaining games – whilst it’s true we can also do it by getting four points (going up on goals scored) we need to be sure and go into Saturday’s game against Wrexham with some critical breathing space, we believe winning at Hereford will give us the push we need to be Champions however anything other than a win and it’s the heartbreaking lottery of the play-offs once again.

It’s difficult to sense why we didn’t do it yesterday, we can sit here and talk about bad defending, lack of bottle or lady luck not being on our side but what does it matter nothing can change what happened yesterday even if we wanted it too. The future however is a different ball game, we still have the power and the spirit to write our own happy ending – don’t be disheartened by this bitter blow just keep believing until the end.

Before we go on to the match report this week there’s just one point we’d like to clear up. After the match we had a tweet about Matt Rhead, the big front man was in our opinion wrongly criticised with the tweet basically saying that Rhead contributes nothing when coming off the bench. Yesterday if it hadn’t been for the brilliance of McDonald in the Braintree goal Matt Rhead would have turned the game round himself as he saw two goal bound headers expertly saved. The Front man is a menace to deal with and is not just the flick on man, he can ball the ball to feet and is more articulate then people give him credit for.

And so it’s on to Tuesday remember that there’s an easy way, a hard way and a Mansfield Town way – fingers crossed that ‘way’ is up!

Paul Cox stuck with the side which reached top of the table midweek by beating Macclesfield.

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

Needing three points to go five clear at the top of the table and put pressure on Kidderminster, Stags began well to the backing of at least 1,200 travelling supporters. It was a rampant start too as Lee Stevenson and Matt Green combined to pressure the hosts inside their own box, Stevenson’s left sided clip nearly fell for Daniel however Braintree nodded clear.

Six minutes later the relentless pressure led to a corner as Daniel’s cross was nodded behind by Matt Paine, Luke Jones then headed Adam Murray’s delivery wide of the mark as the Stags fans kept on singing.

They had literally seconds to wait before they could erupt in cheers as the Stags grabbed the opening goal. Lee Beevers made the assist which was perhaps the pass of his career from Murray’s knockdown, the ball had the right mix of weight, power and direction on. Predictably it was Green to latch onto it, staying onside before blasting beyond Nathan McDonald for his 24th goal of the season.

Four minutes later Stags were close again as Braintree withstood immense pressure, Adam Murray’s deep free kick sat up at the far post for the advanced Jones, who was denied by a well positioned McDonald, the Braintree shot stopper also holding onto another free-kick from Murray moments later.

Braintree were given a rare sighting of goal on 18 minutes as John Dempster fumbled a clearance in a very boggy penalty box, allowing Ben Wright to fire at goal – Alan Marriott was on hand to save the driven goal-bound effort.

Nine minutes later the game hit a pivotal moment as Stags romped forward, looking certain to score. Anthony Howell bustled his way through midfield, passed three challenges and then slotted Green clean through on goal – with the net drawing the Stags in, Green let fly but saw his effort cannon back off the post. Louis Briscoe hit the rebound but dragged wide, Junior Daniel kept the ball alive but Braintree withstood the pressure, somehow!

Louis Briscoe then tried an ambitious effort on the half hour mark from 40 yards which came close to dropping in before Greg Taylor whipped in a dangerous cross which was just too pacey for Green three minutes later.

The hosts put on a little bit of pressure as the half faded away, John Dempster and Lee Stevenson on hand to clear – Stags headed into the break one goal to the good, all the had to do was hold on.

HALF TIME: Braintree 0-1 Stags

Stags began the second half as they’d started the first but still couldn’t find that elusive second, Junior Daniel made up the ground within the opening minute before being felled by Matt Paine. Louis Briscoe stepped up to drive in the resulting free kick, denied only by the keeper who got his full body behind the well hit effort.

Despite more pressure from Stags, the hosts began to drive forward and fired a truly awful shot well wide of the mark on 57 minutes through Ben Wright. Three minutes later however the hosts stunned Stags as they pulled level through Matt Paine – The Iron right backs 25 yard effort was tame and trickled beyond Marriott whose defence failed to close down the ball on three occasions. 

Stags had it to do and threw on Rhead for Stevenson, however the Stags front man could on watch on as a now confident Braintree surged forward and scored again, however Wrights effort was ruled out as he clearly shoved Dempster off the ball.

Lindon Meikle then came onto replace Briscoe but again, the fresh Stags face could only watch on as Braintree took the lead – this one legal and standing. Sam Habergham’s left sided cross not closed down or headed away by Dempster, who was beaten at the back post by Kaine Sheppard who nodded home.

Adam Chapman was then Cox’s final throw of the dice as the replaced Howell, seconds after his introduction he launched in a long throw which Rhead agonisingly headed over.

Rhead was then denied by two sublime saves by McDonald in the Iron goal as Stags thumped against the door as the clock ticked down at pace. Further efforts saw from Daniel, Green, Chapman and Murray all went astray as frustration grew and Mansfield realised they’d again squandered the opportunity to pressure rivals Kidderminster, the full time whistle almost felt like relegation again – a huge fight is needed now.

FULL TIME: Braintree 2-1 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...

Fixture:  Mansfield Town FC Vs Macclesfield Town FC
Competition: Blue Square Bet Premier – Game #41 [Re-Arranged]
Venue: The One Call Stadium
Date & Time: Tuesday 9th April 2013 – 7.45pm
Match Referee: Declan Ford (Lincoln)
Attendance: 3,694 (60)

Last Thursday in Wrexham there was that gut wrenching feeling that Stags may have squandered their chance of automatic promotion, last night however in another pivotal game in hand, Stags showed no sign of nerves or weakness and comfortably brushed past Macclesfield by three goals to one, moving to top of the Conference table by two clear points. A win at Braintreee on Saturday and then a Kidderminster slip up (Draw or defeat) at Wrexham would see Stags confirmed as Champions, we defiantly are now on the edge of glory!

More records were equalled last night as Matt Green, Luke Jones and Lee Stevenson struck – the 28 wins collected equals a club record last set in the 1976-77 campaign whilst the points collected again reaches the highest ever total collected, set during our remarkable run last term.

It all boils down to ifs and buts now, a lot of people will, because of the high octane emotion involved, will get carried away – it’s refreshing to see that the players are keeping level heads and re-affirming the message and true fact: the job is not yet done.

Credit has to go to the players last night, it would have been so easy to let the pressure get to us and crumble, had it done so I honestly believe we’d have subconsciously condemned ourselves to another term in the conference. However it didn’t and we played so cooley from the off there was only going to be one winner, whilst Macclesfield played well in places we looked hungry – when we’re in that mood nothing’s going to stop us, we’re going to be in the same situation on Saturday at Braintree – fingers crossed we can keep our cool!  

This may not be the end, nor is it the beginning – but just maybe, it’s the beginning of the end!

Paul Cox stuck with the same side to beat Barrow on Saturday, making just one change to the bench as Hutchinson returned for Andy Todd.

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

Stags began brightly knowing they needed all three points to top the table, Junior Daniel started well too up against his former club as he won the ball from Ryan Jackson but soon saw his attempted cross blocked.

Adam Murray, another former Silkmen, swung in a testing free kick with less than three minutes played which saw Jones nod into the path of Lee Stevenson, his drilled effort against the angle was blocked well by Rhys Taylor. Seconds later a slip form Jackson allowed Daniel to get a shot away, however he failed to open the scoring as he dragged his effort agonisingly wide of the mark from 18 yards.

Macclesfield then called Alan Marriott into action on 11 minutes as John Paul-Kissock let fly from thirty yards, Marriott untroubled by the former Luton man who watched on six minutes later as Stags grabbed the vital lead.

It all stemmed from a Stevenson break after some more poor Macclesfield defending, the lively attacking-midfielder hurled down by Jackson to the left of the box winning Stags a free kick. Adam Murray stepped up to deliver, Matt Green getting the final and clinical touch to guide the ball home for goal number 23 of his season – three games to get seven goals and hit 30 again, can the talisman do it?

With Stags a goal to the good the visitors went quiet but soaked up the Stags relentless attack as they searched for a second, launching in numerous long throws, a succession of corners and putting together some fluent moves which were stopped by fine challenges from Thierry Audel at the heart of the Macclesfield defence.

Stags did grab that second goal with four minutes of the half remaining, another free kick again swung in by Murray, this time from the right hand side, was headed dominantly home by Luke Jones.

On the stroke of the break Peter Winn registered an effort for the visitors but it was harmlessly way-ward, Stags taking in a comfortably deserved two-nil lead into the dressing room at half time.

HALF TIME: Stags 2-0 Macclesfield

After the break Stags survived an early Macclesfield shot from Keiran Murtagh before they kicked on in search of a third, Louis Briscoe fired a free kick against the wall seconds before Junior Daniel pulled the trigger to the left of the box on 49 minutes, his effort though trickled wide after a fluent move down the left hand side involving John Dempster and Lee Stevenson.

Two minutes later the latter added his tenth strike of the season to put Stags 3-0 up. Louis Briscoe provided a lofted assist on the edge of the area, the ball landing well for Stevenson who controlled under pressure before drilling underneath Rhys Taylor under pressure from Pablo Mills.

The former Crawley man, who spent time on trial with Stags in pre-season, then registered an off target header for the visitors on 55 minutes before Mansfield put the pressure on with another sequence of Murray corners and Lee Beevers throws.

Stags had another golden chance for a fourth on 68 minutes as Louis Briscoe’s deep cross was headed into Green’s path. On the edge of the box, the leading marksman let fly with a rasping right footed half-volley, which nestled agonizingly in the side netting.  

Junior Daniel then felt the burn of frustration with nine minutes to go as substitute Lindon Meikle teed up the impressive Beevers for a cross. Daniel crept up at the far post and saw a forceful header palmed away by Taylor before Daniel again struck, this time with a well executed over head kick which Taylor cheekily plucked out of the air.

With a minute to go Daniel tripped the advancing Ryan Jackson on the edge of the Stags box which ultimately saw Stags surrender their clean sheet. Pablo Mills rising unmarked to head home Jackson’s well hit set piece.

A comeback was never on the cards for Macclesfield and in fairness, they were lucky not to concede again as Jones registered two late efforts from as many Murray’s corners, the last one landing wide as the referee concluded the match with the full time whistle, putting Stags top of the blue square premier.

FULL TIME: Stags 3-1 Macclesfield 

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 and Emily Sykes write...

This may seem a somewhat dramatic statement to make however at this critical stage in the season, is tomorrow night’s match make or break?

Stags squandered the chance to make an advantage of a game in hand last Thursday as there 12 game winning streak came to an end at Wrexham, the fact that Stags wasted the opportunity to go top just plays on our minds a little as we head into tomorrow game with the other MTFC.

Macclesfield are a good side and despite the rest of their season bringing irrelevant games, the players will be fighting for their own futures and eager to impress any potential new manager following the departure of Steve King a week or so ago.

In a way with Kidderminster not playing there’s added pressure on Stags, everybody expects them to win tomorrow and top the table but as with every other game there are two teams involved. We could sit here and talk about beating Macclesfield and then Braintree, along with hoping Kidderminster draw to crown us champions by the weekend however such talk is a distraction, it stirs a feeling of fantasy and an expectant emotion of pride and happiness. We’ve all had the dream about Murray and Co holding aloft the league trophy but right now, in this very moment nothing is signed sealed or delivered.

What we need to do is continue believing and remain firmly focused, if we allow those aforementioned dreams to creep in that fire which starts inside could burn us rather than keep us warm. There’s little else to be said without going into the past experiences of this division and memories of previous heartbreak – tomorrow night’s match has no room for reflection nor does it have room for dreams, be loud be proud and most importantly back the boys to get three points because right now it’s points that matter!

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 since as what was the poorest away record in the league is now the third best overall.

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.

Paul Cox looks likely to name the same eleven that thumped Barrow for another four on Saturday with no apparent fresh injury worries, only James Jennings, Jake Speight and Ross Dyer are absent for the Stags boss who will be desperate for a ninth straight home win and three move to move Stags top of the table by three points.

If you can’t make it to The One Call Stadium for tomorrow night’s huge game, another game in hand on Kidderminster, then be sure to join Craig via our MM-LIVE page for regular updates with build up starting at 7pm, the broadcast on Takeover Radio 106.9FM will start at 7.30pm due to programming schedules.

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 writes...

Fixture:  Barrow AFC Vs Mansfield Town FC
Competition: Blue Square Bet Premier – Game #44
Venue: The Furness Building Society Stadium (Holker Street)
Date & Time: Saturday 6th April 2013 – 3pm
Match Referee: Anthony Blackhouse
Attendance: 1,114 (300)

After defeat in Wrexham on Thursday, Stags needed to regroup quickly and get back on track, it’s pleasing to say that they’d did yesterday in beautiful Barrow, running out 4-0 winners. It was a tough game and on any other afternoon could have been an entirely different outcome now, but whilst that is a true and fair statement, it’s also firm and stern fact that we came out of the match with three vital points and now our canvas is primed to portray a somewhat beautiful image.

Four games remain for Paul Cox’s side, defeated twice in their last 19 matches; they are a point behind Kidderminster, level on goal difference with two games in hand. The Harriers have Wrexham and Stockport left to play whilst Stags have Macclesfield, Braintree, Hereford and Wrexham left on their schedule – working on assumptions here and going on recent form – Stags need three wins from their final four games to take the crown.

In more simpler terms, a win against Macclesfield on Tuesday evening terms will move Stags TWO points clear at the tables top, should Stags then beat Braintree after that they’ll be FIVE points clear before Kidderminster have kicked off, in my opinion whilst there’s pressure on us to win the two fixtures, Kidderminster not playing gives us room to relax and focus. We’ll talk about the importance of beating Macclesfield etc later in the week but the way the brush is poised, this time next week out painting could be complete – how scary is that thought.

Yesterday was a battle in which heroes were needed, played out to a picturesque back drop of sprinkled snow covered fells and the reflecting suns’ beam on Lower Ormsgill Reservoir, the players eventually stepped up to the place, non-more so than Alan Marriott.  The Stags shot stopper’s 27th minute penalty save and heroic rebound block could well prove to be the pivotal point in the title race and season’s outcome. There were flash-backs of Stockport away back in January, Stags hanging on in the early stages before a missed penalty changed the games course and in actually fact, Stags’ long term ambitions and fortunes – same again please!

It wasn’t a pretty game to match the breathtaking backdrop, but give me points over perfection performances any day of the week right now – league titles are won on the points you collect, not by judgement of pretty football!

Yet again records were broken, the four goals netted against a Barrow side who now seemingly cry at the thought of playing Mansfield takes this season’s total to 12 to a reply of just one. The twelve goals scored is the highest goals for total achieved in a season against one team home and away since the club joined the football league in 1931 – the more impressive record broke is for the amount of away wins in a season, the Stags now have notched up 12 away wins this term which beats the previous record of 11, amazing when you consider our away record was the divisions worse prior to Christmas – Paul Cox and his team deserve a huge pack on the back.

Going into the match against struggling Barrow Paul Cox opted for a few changes following defeat in Wrexham less than 42 hours prior to kick-off at Holker Street, Adam Chapman and Lindon Meikle went out for Lee Stevenson and Louis Briscoe respectively – the side fielded was one player different to the previous meeting with Barrow, the 8-1 mauling, Greg Taylor at left back instead of James Jennings who is of course absent with injury. On the bench, Cox named player-coach Andy Todd, the fittest man in the universe probably. Some are critical of Todd but at this stage of the season, a player with his influence, tactical know how and adaptability is most welcome for those certain sticky patches – I’ll say it now even if nobody agrees, Todd’s name should be the first on the team sheet whether it’s in the starting line up or on the bench, at some stage – we’ll need him.

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

It was a balanced start at Holker Street on a beautiful afternoon which saw chances for both sides in the opening minutes, Junior Daniel’s forceful run in the early seconds lacked any finishing conviction as Gary Hunter cleared well before Alan Marriott was well positioned to keep out an effort from Richie Baker at the other end.

On five minutes Junior Daniel showed speed to try and create for Stags however it was Barrow that would go onto enjoy the better of the chances, Adam Boyes firing over from just outside the area before further efforts from Baker and Danny L Rowe called the likes of Marriott, Jones and Beevers into action.

Stags then had a golden chance to open the scoring on twenty minutes as Sean Hessey the Barrow skipper made a timing error and allowing Green to pick his pocket on the edge of the box, however despite Green’s reputation in front of goal he failed to beat Danny Hurst, placing his over-run effort wide of the mark once inside the box.

The Bluebirds continued their fight for an opener and had further opportunities through L.Rowe and Rutherford before they were awarded a 27th minute penalty, following a handball by Luke Jones after Hunter’s long throw. Richie Baker took on the responsibility but failed to outwit Marriott who saved well with his legs before excellently denying the on rushing Adam Boyes who hit a venomous rebound. The move wasn’t over as Stags cleared and countered, Anthony Howell’s dominant muscle power surge took the ball over the half way line and eventually into the path of Green, dishearteningly for Stags Green failed to keep the ball alive and the sting, went quickly out of the tale.

Two minutes later Stags atoned for their failure to net on the counter attack as they opened the scoring in fluent fashion. Adam Murray started the move sweeping the ball into the direction of Daniel who, despite having opportunity to shoot, pulled the ball back to Green who had the simple task of clipping into the bottom corner with Hurst not in sight.

To Barrow’s credit they were relentless in search of an equaliser and came close to finding one on the half hour mark as L.Rowe stroked the ball into the path of Boyes. With space inside the area, Boyes’ let a sweat effort go which had beaten Marriott all ends up but not the post – the Barrow hit mans effort thumping back off the frame before being cleared.

The pendulum then swung back in Mansfield’s direction as they came close twice in three minutes, John Dempster’s assisting header close to reaching Green on 35 before a terrific solo run from Stevenson following Daniel’s poke through, saw him denied well by the on rushing keepers legs in a one verses one situation ten yards from goal.

Stags were then fortunate not to concede as Sean McConville delivered a powerful corner, Dempster headed the initial ball away but Stags failed to react to the second ball, Barrow skipper Hessey driving a thunderous left footed effort narrowly wide of the target.

With four minutes of the first half remaining Stags were given some breathing space as Louis Briscoe was tripped by the back-tracking Danny L Rowe, the Barrow players pleaded their case for only a free kick however the referee and his assistant had a long look before pointing to the penalty spot. Matt Green took responsibility and netted his third spot kick of the season against Barrow, again sending Danny Hurst the wrong way to make it 2-0 to the travelling Stags.

Seconds after the restart Green squandered the chance to take home the match-ball as he slotted wide of the target following Daniel’s assist, on the stroke of half time Alan Marriott remained well positioned to keep out McConville’s driven shot, ensuring Stags held a healthy two goal lead at half time.

HALF TIME: Barrow 0-2 Stags

Mansfield began the second half with the opportunity for a third goal, however it didn’t quite come as Stevenson nodded over from Adam Murray’s left sided free kick with barley a minute played. Two minutes later Alan Marriott made yet another superb stop to deny Adam Boyes after he pounded onto a tame backwards header from Luke Jones.

The bluebirds again came close on 55 minutes as Anthony Howell went into the book for fouling Danny L Rowe. The same player stepped up from the edge of the box and sent his free kick thundering against the bar before, much to the Stags relief, the ball bounced clear.

Five minutes later Stags found their feet again and grabbed their third goal of the afternoon. Three players will lay claim to the goal which the dubious goals committee will deliberate on – Adam Murray will claim his free kick went straight in whilst Lee Stevenson claims a header which he says crossed the line before John Dempster plainly smashed in. The press association credited Dempster, as did we however in the end, we’ve come to the conclusion that it doesn’t matter, what does is the fact Stags held a solid 3-0 lead.

Adam Boyes headed over another chance for Barrow on 65 minutes before either side of two Stags changes, Rhead for Green and Meikle for Briscoe, Danny L Rowe fired straight at Marriott.

Lee Beevers then delivered a deep free kick for Stags on 76 minutes which Rhead headed into the path of Stevenson, denied only by a block on the line as the lively midfielder searched for a goal.

In the latter stages the game went fairly flat, James Owen registered another effort for the hosts with ten minutes to go before Andy Todd entered the fray for Daniel with two minutes to go. A series of Murray corners saw Howell scuff an effort on 90 minutes before Stevenson added the fourth goal a minute to added time.

Lindon Meikle sparked the move sending a defence splitting pass into Rhead who could have taken the shot on himself, instead he drilled towards the back post where Stevenson clipped in half a yard from goal, soon after followed the full time whistle to the delight of the 300 travelling fans.

FULL TIME: Barrow 0-4 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...

Fixture:  Wrexham AFC Vs Mansfield Town FC
Competition: Blue Square Bet Premier – Game #31 [Re-Arranged]
Venue: The Racecourse Ground
Date & Time: Thursday 4th April 2013 – 7.45pm
Match Referee: Darren Handley (Bolton)
Attendance: 4,378 (593)

Let’s be honest, that sensational run wasn’t going to last forever was it? It would have been nice but do you know what I’m realising after last night, sometimes you need incidents and controversy like that to re-focus, on the spin of things last night’s 2-1 at Wrexham has done us no harm – we are still a point behind Kidderminster with games in hand, to those that say it’s over? Get a grip – it’s only just beginning!

To be fair its only a small minority saying we’ve lost it because we’ve lost to a rival side, Paul Cox has the know how to get us through and despite being thrown a few curve balls with the suspensions of John Dempster & Lee Beevers (providing my stats are accurate), will get us back to winning ways.

There was controversy and to be fair, I expected as much, should Luke Jones’ thumping header of stood? Should Wrexham have had a man sent off for the challenge on Lee Beevers? The list goes on – although it’s irrelevant now as the games over, it’s time to pick ourselves up and get back in the race.

Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall – let’s go and prove it at Barrow tomorrow, stayed tuned for a match preview later on today.

Paul Cox made two changes to the side which thumped Gateshead on Monday, in my opinion it was the wrong call to make however it’s opinion only and as above, we’ll move on. 4-4-1-1 became 4-5-1 to try and stop Wrexham’s 4-3-3 from getting space, although Chapman and Howell did alternate in supporting Green when Stags had the ball. Adam Chapman and Lindon Meikle were handed a recall as Briscoe and Stevenson missed out respectively.

LINE UP [4-5-1]: Alan Marriott, Lee Beevers, John Dempster, Luke Jones, Greg Taylor, Lindon Meikle, Adam Chapman, Adam Murray (C), Anthony Howell, Junior Daniel, Matt Green
Substitutes: Ritchie Sutton, Louis Briscoe, Matt Rhead, Ben Hutchinson, Lee Stevenson.

With both sides fighting for the points it was always going to be a nervy yet entertaining fixture, Stags coming close of four minutes following a good break, started but shamefully not finished, by Adam Chapman. The returning midfielder collected the ball inside the centre circle and did well to skip the challenge of Jay Harris before picking Daniel out on the left hand side. Daniel then found space to drill in for Green but saw the ball deflected back into his path, cutting back a second time for the advancing Chapman who scuffed his effort wide.

A minute later it was the hosts turn to test the water as Dean Keates teed up Harris for a short free kick, the Wrexham midfielders effort clattered off the wall before Anthony Charge charged it away.

The pendulum swung between the two sides as they searched for the opener, a deep cross from Adrian Cieslewicz floated harmlessly away for a Stags throw before Chapman fired wide from 25 yards following Matt Green’s cushioned assist from Alan Marriott’s 13th minute goal kick.

Wrexham were then forced into a substitution on 21 minutes as Chris Westwood pulled up injured, seven minutes later a fluent move from right to left, started by substitute Declan Walker saw Johnny Hunt’s low pass thumped narrowly wide by Harris who again tried his luck from distance.

Two minutes later Stags should have netted the opener as Murray stretched the game with an excellent pass to Meikle on the right hand side, the wide man then picked out Chapman who had space inside the area for an acute touch and blast, unfortunately for Stags Chapman got this the wrong way round as he blasted his touch and could only get a tame shot away, which went out for a goal kick without rustling any feathers.  

With five to go before the break Stags were close once again as Murray’s cross park ball picked out Daniel. Quick feet from the wide man saw him progress before stroking the ball into the path of Greg Taylor, his dangerous cross palmed onto the bar by Chris Maxwell before Meikle’s pass into the path of the advancing Beevers saw the right back flagged offside.

The final few minutes saw the hosts put on the pressure, however the half time whistle was soon blown and the sides went in level at the break.

HALF TIME: Wrexham 0-0 Stags

Mansfield began the second half terrifically and came close inside the opening two minutes as Adam Chapman fired into the side netting as his corner came back out to him on the right hand side, however it was on 50 minutes when the controversy began.  

Adam Chapman hurled in a missile-esc long throw which saw Luke Jones rise above the crowd and nod into the back of the net, after a few seconds of celebration, frustration became evident as the lines-man ruled out Jones’ goal for a non-existent foul.

Three minutes later though the Stags did grab the break though this time from a corner, Chapman clipping in for the impressive Jones whose thunderous effort cannoned off the ball. Numerous boots swung at the ball and eventually it was Green who stabbed in his 20th goal of the season to put Stags into a vital lead.

Alan Marriott then kept Stags in the game with a fine save on 56 minutes as Walker’s deep cross sat perfectly for Danny Wright. The Wrexham leading marksman powerfully headed towards the top corner but was denied by Marriott, not that it mattered as it appeared Dempster had been felled by the big striker.

The much loved Stags keeper was then perhaps at fault for the Wrexham leveller on 68 minutes after Chapman had brought down Keates on the edge of the box. The Wrexham skipper stepped up to curl the free kick over the wall which Marriott held, before spilling over the line and gifting the hosts a leveller.

Wrexham were then in control as Stags threw on Briscoe and Rhead to no avail, the hosts also introduced Glenn Little on 78 minutes. Seconds after his introduction he drove forwards and split the defence with a low pass into the feet of Wright, one on one with Marriott the Wrexham hit man collected another goal as he blasted into the bottom corner to turn the game completely on its head.

It was ever so nearly 3-1 a minute later as Dale Adebola teed up Harris on the edge of the box, his thunderous effort crashed off the underside of the bar but didn’t cross the line, fortunately for Stags who were starting to look shattered.

With nine minutes remaining Matt Green put the ball into the net but was pulled back for fouling ex team mate Martin Riley as the striker danced his way through, Luke Jones also nodded wide from Adam Murray’s excellent corner.

In the final minutes of stoppage time, Wrexham missed a guilt edge chance to seal a third as Joe Clarke charge through the middle before setting up Keates, the midfielder blazing over from ten yards before the full time whistle brought the game to an end.

FULL TIME: Wrexham 2-1 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...

Fixture:  Mansfield Town FC V Gateshead FC
Competition: Blue Square Bet Premier – Game #43
Venue: The One Call Stadium
Date & Time: Monday 1st April 2013 – 3pm
Match Referee: Graham Horwood (Bedfordshire)
Attendance: 3,472 (82)

Stags ensured they were no fools yesterday as they put in an accomplished and professional display to brush struggling Gateshead aside and collect their 12th straight win, equalling the Football Conference record set by Burton and Hereford respectively.

Goalkeeper Alan Marriott also collected his 50th clean sheet for the club on an afternoon which kept the on watching Stags fans entertained as Mansfield registered chance after chance after chance, showing exactly why they are the favourites to take the league title.

Despite putting the points on the board in recent games, it’s no secret that the wins have been scrappy – the players needed that injection of confidence and certainly got it yesterday ahead of a tough trip to Wrexham on Thursday evening, Mansfield’s first of three games in hand on Kidderminster who remain a solitary point in front and now level on goal difference – cheers Luton!

Wrexham have no dropped from third to fourth and are ten points behind Mansfield now, however only a fool would write them off as being able to dent your season – in realistic terms there title hopes are over, that won’t stop them wanting to beat a rival and gather momentum after falling from top spot, with just one win from their last five league outings. I might get slated for evening mentioning the play-offs but there is still a long way to before now and the final curtain, it’s positive news then that Stags are guaranteed to finish in the play-off places, no lower than 5th and as such, will have that comfort blanket and allow them to focus on clinching that title.

Paul Cox had a tough decision to make going into the game in resting legs for Wrexham, arguably a bigger game than yesterday – no disrespect to Gateshead. Adam Chapman and Lindon Meikle were rested for Anthony Howell and Junior Daniel, the former putting in a solid man of the match display and making it tough for Cox ahead of Thursday.

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

On a cold, yet sunny afternoon at the One Call Stadium, Stags began well creating three opportunities inside the opening five minutes. Adam Murray sparked the first chance on three minutes as his deep free kick saw Anthony Howell head into Adam Bartlett’s hands, fluent movement between Murray, Stevenson and Briscoe saw the latter earn a throw with a driven cross seconds later, however the throw lacked any real threat. Luke Jones then intercepted play on the half way line to spark another quick break, Briscoe again earned a throw which saw Gateshead under immense pressure before Junior Daniel’s clip back into the middle faded away.

The visitors then registered an effort on nine minutes as Ryan Donaldson beat home debutant Taylor on the right hand side, cutting inside Donaldson failed to beat a well positioned Alan Marriott.

Two minutes later Taylor swung in a deep left sided cross which saw Matt Green head tamely at the keeper before seconds later, Stevenson curled horribly wide from Murray’s short free kick after Green was felled by James Curtis.

Lee Beevers showed solid defensive work as James Brown looked to pounce down the left hand side on 17 minutes, four later Green was again upended on the edge of the box – a free kick which sparked the games opener. Adam Murray was again on set piece duty and put in a delightful ball which forced Bartlett to palm the ball onto the bar, Anthony Howell was first to react to the rebound and belted in his fourth of the season from close range.

Brown then attempted to level almost immediately with a long range effort which Marriott was comfortable too, Stags soon picked up the pace in their attempts for a second and four minutes later, had a cast iron penalty turned away when Louis Briscoe’s 20 yard one man charge was brought to an abrupt end by Liam Hatch’s two footed challenge on the bye line – the linesman and referee both ignoring Stags appeals.   

Stevenson was next to try his luck on 29 minutes as he and Beevers exchanged numerous passes down the right, resulting in Green being the final linkup between Beevers and Stevenson’s right footed rasping effort which nestled in the side netting. Four minutes later Gateshead survived another powerful attack as Jones’ thunderous header was palmed away from a Murray corner, Matt Green then blasted straight at the legs of the keeper who made a fine block to deny Stags a much deserved second.

With nine to go before the break, Stags’ onslaught was nearly undone as Junior Daniel hand balled on the edge of the area as he looked to start a box to box charge, Micky Cummins stepped up to take the resulting free kick and fired just a whisker over the bar.

Louis Briscoe and Luke Jones both had further efforts for a second but the best, and most clear cut of the chances, fell on the stroke of half time as Murray’s volleyed clearance saw Briscoe & Stevenson combine to send Green clean through the middle. You’d back the hit man to score, but of late the striker’s lacked confidence and conviction in these situations and did again hear, opting to drill the effort low and ultimately, straight at, Adam Bartlett rather than clip the ball lightly over the on-rushing heed shot stopper and into the back of the net.

HALF TIME: Stags 1-0 Gateshead

It took Stags under 30 seconds to register their first chance of the second half as Gateshead wasted the kick off, Alan Marriott allowed to easily collect. The Stags shot stopped launched a long ball finding Junior Daniel on the left, a quick poke inside found Stevenson whose curling effort was narrowly over the bar from 22 yards.

Gateshead rarely touched the ball as Stags cranked up the pressure, Another Marriott ball forward on 48 minutes saw Green tee up Briscoe for a ferocious effort which was dragged narrowly wide.

The visitors saw another sight of goal on 51 as Josh Gillies kept the ball alive on the goal line, cutting back for Liam Henderson who lifted over Marriott, but also over the bar. Matt Rhead then replaced Lee Stevenson five minutes later as Greg Taylors deep free kick was swept away after Luke Jones downward header.

Junior Daniel then teetered between frustrating and delighting the fans as he wasted numerous crosses in excellent positions but did twice test out Bartlett, hitting wide on 64 minutes before seeing a long range effort palmed away on 66 as fluent football continue to spray across the one call pitch.

Seven minutes later Stags doubled their lead in fine fashion as Greg Taylor hurled in a long throw, the ball fell for Briscoe on the edge of the box and he thumped in another ‘Briscoe Belter’ driving into the bottom corner with his left boot.

Junior Daniel had another effort go wide on 75 minutes, a shot which proved his last action as Lindon Meikle entered the fray, two minutes later Stags made it three as Matt Green finally got his reward, latching onto a long ball to the left of the box, cutting inside to fire beyond Bartlett.

Green then trotted off to be replaced by Ben Hutchinson, Stags maintained their pace and saw Briscoe, Murray and Meikle all come close as the game progressed. As the game entered its final minute Stags were awarded a free kick on the edge of the box which saw the game sealed, if it wasn’t already. Ben Hutchinson stepped up and saw his free kick handled inside the box, Hutchinson took responsibility for the spot-kick and tucking home via the post.

The Stags weren’t done and in the last second, Hutchinson whipped in a corner which saw Jones’ dominant header hacked off the line, as the heed cleared their lines the final whistle then sounded.

FULL TIME: Stags 4-0 Gateshead

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

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