The Magic Number | Forest Green Rovers 1-2 Stags

Sky Bet League Two | The Innocent New Lawn – Saturday 14th November [Nigel Clough’s first League game as manager – Mansfield’s first league win]

The full time whistle a week ago at Sunderland was a euphorically feeling, the full time whistle on Tuesday was a pleasing one, and yesterday – well that was just magical, three wins on the spin, but more importantly, our first in the league as the momentum train gathers another jolt of speed.

Nigel Clough reverted back to the same starting line-up which beat Sunderland, despite vice-skipper Ryan Sweeney and fellow natural central defender Rollin Menayese both getting 90 minutes in midweek – thus rewarding James Perch for his fine displays deputising out of position at centre back alongside Rawson.

The Stags continued to play in the same confident, front foot manner – playing with zest and energy from the off and scoring two good goals which highlighted that. George Lapslie was excellent playing at the top of the midfield diamond and took his goal well, whilst the Stags, and in particular Jordan Bowery, showed excellent focus and press to win the ball back from Forest Greens quick free kick to score the second.

What was particularly pleasing was the grit and determination showed by the Stags throughout the second half. The weather worsened and as you’d expect for a team in third, Forest Green came at us and reduced the deficit late on – previous games the Stags would have crumbled and came away with a draw at best.

One win isn’t the be all and end all, we’ve still got a lot of work to do – but this time we have confidence, belief and momentum on our side. It won’t be easy, and it won’t be instant, BUT we’re on the right track with time to work and improve.

Three back to back wins in three competitions, all on the road – time to make the magic happen at home now – bring on Friday!   

Click HERE to read the clubs official match report.

​STAGS: Marek Stech | Kellan Gordon, Farrend Rawson, James Perch ©, Mal Benning | Harry Charsley, George Lapslie, George Maris (Ollie Clarke 31), Stephen McLaughlin | Nicky Maynard (Corey O’Keeffe 81), Jordan Bowery
Unused Subs: Aidan Stone, Ryan Sweeney, Andy Cook, Aaron O’Driscoll, Jamie Reid