CTA #18 Mansfield Vs Fleetwood

FA Cup (Sponsored by Budweiser) 4^th Qualifying Round – Mansfield Town Vs Fleetwood Town, 29/10/11 – Field Mill 3PM

‘Equals’

When the draw for the fourth qualifying round was revealed a few weeks ago, there was a collective groan around the town as we we’re handed a tough home tie with big spending Fleetwood Town. Whether it’s because the draw was made during our purple patch, or that we wanted a so called ‘easy tie’ I don’t know, I’ll hold my hands up and say I’d have liked an easier cup tie, but you have to remember that in football, as in life, you have to play with the hand your given.

Once the game began to creep closer I realised that, at this point in the season, a game against Fleetwood in the cup is exactly what we needed. No points are lost should we be defeated, and whilst we’d be out of the FA Cup, we’d have seen exactly what was needed to strengthen our BSBP campaign for the better – it’s always about the bigger picture.

Yesterday morning before the game I remembered the Luton trophy semi final and how people said it was ‘the worse draw possible’ – fair enough I felt a stronger burn inside me before that game than I did yesterday, but only because of how close a dream was to becoming reality. I always work on the belief that money isn’t everything and that you can achieve success by hard work and determination rather than ‘splashing the cash’ – Everybody in life and football should be treated as equals, just because you’re a penniless nobody playing for the red lion pub Sunday side, doesn’t mean you can’t match the standard of the rich flash harry playing for the best side on earth. Yesterday was a close enough test of this theory, as we welcomed big spending Fleetwood.

Paul Cox made two changes from the side which beat Alfreton the previous Saturday, Ben Futcher and Anthony Howell we’re reintroduced at the expense of Joe Kendrick and Paul Connor. Striker Louis Moult resigned for the Stags on loan on Friday, he had to settle for a place on the bench alongside promoted youth team hit man, Adam Somes.

Alan Marriott

Ritchie Sutton – Ben Futcher (Kendrick) – Martin Riley – Luke O’Neill

Anthony Howell (Connor) – Adam Murray (C) – Paul Bolland

Ross Dyer – Matt Green – Lindon Meikle

BENCH: Shane Redmond – Paul Connor – Matt Bell – Andy Todd – Rhys Day – Adam Somes (#27) – Louis Moult (#28)

Mansfield got the game underway attacking the North Stand, a nice early bit of pressure saw Ritchie Sutton punt a ball long down the line in search of Ross Dyer, Anthony Howell then picked up Dyer’s cushioned header down before attempting to release Matt Green, however the pass from the former Alfreton midfielder was too heavy and trickled harmlessly away for a goal kick.

The Stags enjoyed some good early movement of the ball with some neat one touch passing; however it was the visitors who thought they’d opened the scoring after four minutes, following Ritchie Sutton’s foul on Andy Mangan. Jamie Milligan whipped in the free kick from the left hand side; it eluded everyone and nestled past the pink shirted Marriott in the bottom corner, Fleetwood’s cheers killed by the welcome sight of the linesman flag for offside.

Four minutes later the stags had a spell of pressure themselves threatening to open the scoring on numerous occasions, Luke O’Neill’s long throw in was punched clear by Fleetwood keeper Scott Davies, O’Neill delivered the resulting corner and Martin Riley’s presence at the far post was enough to force a second corner. A poorer delivery was deflected away and O’Neill did better with the third corner of the sequence, finding Howell who in turn found Murray, The Stags skipper then fed O’Neill wide but under pressure, the young full back allowed the ball to go out for a Fleetwood throw.

The ball spent most of its time in the middle of the park with neither keeper having much to do for long periods of the game, Mansfield pressured well but were kept out by the visiting keeper, With 13 minutes on the clock Davies held onto the ball after Sutton’s deep cross was pulled back to Matt Green thanks to Lindon Meikle. At the other end two minutes later, Gareth Seddon weaved his way through the Stags back line and into the area, his final shot fortunately bounced away off the post for a goal kick.

With 19 gone it was the Stags who then came closest to opening the scorning, Luke O’Neill’s dangerous cross was headed down inside the box to Matt Green by Dyer, the striker who looks set to be joining permanently in January following the agreement of a transfer fee, did well to poke the ball to Adam Murray on the edge of the box, his driven shot was superbly saved by the finger tips of Scott Davies.

Mansfield failed to take advantage of the resulting corner and the game soon fell back into a slow cautious midfield affair, however two minutes from the break the visitors we’re awarded a free kick following O’Neill’s foul on the lively Jamie Vardy. The Stags perhaps too long to switch on and get organised, Jamie Milligan squeezed a neat effort past the less than sturdy wall and into the net to open the scoring.

Mansfield 0-1 Fleetwood

The first half clock ran down and the half time whistle blew, meaning the stags we’re behind at the break for the 5^th home game running – this time though a balanced and more sturdier performance at the back (bar the response time of the free kick) sent a feeling around Field Mill that the Stags we’re neither down nor out, and if anything, the game could be turned on its head.

Half Time: Mansfield 0-1 Fleetwood

The second half pretty much took the same path bas the first despite Fleetwood’s introduction of Magno Viera at the break. Mansfield knocked the ball around well but barley created anything in the final third until the hour mark, Lindon Meikle showed quick feet to pick up and whip in an O’Neill pass, Matt Green was darting in at the far post but his out stretched leg was just a fraction too late and the ball had already gone out for a goal kick.

Mansfield’s 4-3-3 seemed to be creating little so Paul Cox opted to switch to a 4-4-2 and introduce Louis Moult for a second Stags debut, replacing Paul Bolland who didn’t seem to complement a midfield three with Howell and Murray. Ross Dyer slotted on the right wing with Meikle on the left leaving Moult to partner Green upfront.

It took Moult a few minute but when he did, he and Green looked to form an instant partnership creating space for each other, however Fleetwood’s Nathan Pond read the two of them well allowing very little through the middle. The Stags refused to give in though and drew level as the clock hit 70 minute, Luke O’Neill looked sharp on the attack, cutting in from the left wing to whip a dangerous cross into the box, Louis Moult arrived at the right moment at the far post, pulling the ball back for Ross Dyer who completed the simple task of slotting into the empty net to level the game.

Mansfield 1-1 Fleetwood

Fleetwood then looked to respond and restore their lead following the restart, former Stags trailist Alan Goodall whipped in a cross towards the back post, Magno Viera leapt highest and headed against the bar, moments later Alan Marriott did just enough to keep out Jamie Vardy’s effort as the former FC Halifax hit man crept through unchallenged.

Vardy again caused Mansfield problems as both sides searched for a winner in the final five minutes, Magno Viera slotted him through 1 vs. 1 with Marriott, the stags keeper stayed string to deny Vardy with a fine stop.

Deep into injury time the Stags put the pressure on a final time, O’Neill’s free kick from the half way line found Futcher who deserved his Man of the match award with a fine commanding display in the back four, the loanee who returns to Bury shortly headed onto Matt Green who did well to keep the ball under pressure from McNulty, Green laid a pass to Howell who curled a ball agonisingly just over the top of the bar.

The full time whistle soon followed meaning a trip to Fleetwood on Tuesday evening for a replay, I pray that some more chances will be created and the game will be done and dusted in 90 minutes, I’m yet to commentate on a penalty shootout (although I’ve been close twice!) and I don’t wish to break that fact on Tuesday!

Full Time: Mansfield 1-1 Fleetwood

The result not only means a trip to Fleetwood on Tuesday, but it also see’s our fixture calendar re-arranged once more, the game scheduled for TV coverage against Cambridge United on Thursday will now revert back to its original date of Saturday 5^th November 3PM – No TV coverage, be prepared for a LOT of fireworks gags!

On reflection of yesterday’s game, a draw is a fair result, neither side created many clear cut chances. I was pleased with the way Mansfield played after recent home performances, we passed the ball well and enjoyed decent spells of pressure, we talked to each other 99% of the time and there we’re no causes for concern – if we keep that standard and build from it, this season will be a success for our beloved club following that dream.

The hastily arranged replay will be a big ask for many, but fear not there’s really no need to miss a kick of the action, as myself and Scott Rogers have cancelled plans to watch Eastenders and play football manager, instead we’ll be live from Fleetwood with full match commentary on Takeover Radio 106.9FM (online too – see link on the right hand side) and build up from 7.30PM. Hopefully the Stags can continue their fine away form and head through to round one, a home tie with Wycombe Wanders awaits!

Thanks for reading.

Match Pictures: James Williamson

Podcast

CTA #17 Stags Vs Alfreton

Blue Square Bet Premier Game #17 Mansfield Town Vs Alfreton Town – Field Mill, Saturday 22^nd October 2011 3PM

‘Every Picture Tells A Story.... And Every Story Paints a Picture’

Reflecting on yesterday’s victory over neighbours Alfreton, there is no other title I could really use to sum up the events of yesterday afternoon. The title is not one I’ve made up; it’s an infamous quote which is used by some many as a view on life. It’s a common saying which has the same meaning as ‘don’t judge a book by its cover’ and you may wonder why I’ve not chosen that as a title, the answers simple really – it’s not about having the wrong perception of someone or something as suggested by don’t judge a book by its cover, it’s more about perception. The story of yesterday is exactly what the cover (below) says and suggests – a Mansfield Victory, but the perception of how the story is told and more importantly viewed, fits nicely, hence the title ‘Every Picture Tells A Story, And Every Story Paints a Picture’.

Before you carry on reading, it’s important you understand that I’m writing as I viewed the game, you may have a different perspective of things and that’s fine as at the end of the day, the result shows a Mansfield victory. I’m not here to get a reaction, nor am I here to slate people or have a dig, I’m a passionate fan (proved by the audio at the bottom!) writing as I do each week, for the history books so in years to come we can look back and remember properly what happened rather than make assumptions based on what the photo’s and short facts of results tables suggests. All I’m trying to do is share my views and hopefully make the picture clearer for all as we reach a vital point in the season.

Whilst dubbed as a ‘local derby’ because of the clubs geographical closeness, it didn’t have the same feel as a Mansfield Vs C**********d game brings, as far as I was concerned it was just another game, with another set of points on offer.

Paul Cox chose to stick with the same 11 that drew with Lincoln during the week; however the stag’s boss did reintroduce midfielder Anthony Howell to the mix following his three game ban, with the ex-reds man taking his place on the bench in place of Louis Briscoe.

Alan Marriott

Luke O’Neill – Martin Riley – Ritchie Sutton – Joe Kendrick

Lindon Meikle – Adam Murray (C) – Paul Bolland – Ross Dyer

Matt Green – Paul Connor

SUBS: Shane Redmond – Jon Worthington – Andy Todd – Anthony Howell – Rhys Day

Mansfield got the game underway and we’re on the attack from the start, Skipper Murray looked to feed Ross Dyer wide left Alfreton’s Josh Law scrambled clear but Paul Bolland picked up we’re he left off against Lincoln, winning the ball back to send Dyer on his way again, his attempted cross was blocked and bounced away for a stags throw with 15 seconds gone. Luke O’Neill came across to the left hand side and launched a long throw into the box, the visitors 3 man back line headed away, however it was Joe Kendrick who put the stags in danger with a sloppy pass back to Ritchie Sutton. The ball cannoned off Anthony Wilson and stags we’re soon in trouble as Paul Clayton burst free through the middle – stopped at the last second thanks to a suburb challenge from Sutton.

With Alfreton fighting for the lives, sitting second bottom, a lot of people put money on a Mansfield onslaught, in fairness the opening 10 minutes suggested it would be. The first golden chance to put Mansfield ahead fell to leading front man Matt Green, he found himself 1 vs. 1 with Alfreton’s loanee shot stopper Joe Day, Green blazed over right footed from around eight yards – a left footed roll in would have been the better option as Green had plenty of the goal to aim for.

On six minutes, Dyer, who played well out of position on the left wing, dropped central and won the ball back strongly as lively Alfreton creped forward, Dyer slotted a neat ball through to Green who cut in from just left of the area before curling a testing shot wide, however with Connor and Meikle free in the box, Alfreton sensed their luck maybe in. Two minutes later the stags we’re pressing again, A combination of Murray, O’Neill and Meikle saw the latter weave forward, before being brought down for a stags free kick. O’Neill’s delivery found Green who was denied by Joe Day who made a smart save to tip over for a corer.

Mansfield had already seen at least 4 goal worthy chances fail and they had already seen Alan Marriott deny Wilson a header from a free kick just before Mansfield’s double chance, sloppy defending was the reason behind the free header and on 13 minutes it was to blame again as Alfreton grabbed the lead. Greg Young’s throw caused problems and as the ball was delivered into the box, the stags defence stood static allowing Anton Brown space to head past Marriott.

Stags 0-1 Alfreton

Mansfield seemed so lively up front but a lack of finishing touch saw the visitors stay ahead, proved once more on 17 minutes as Joe Kendrick blazed over from close range following a Connor cross, the Irish full back had Matt Green and Lindon Meikle screaming for a pass as they both had a tap in waiting for them. It was Mansfield’s indecision, lack of finishing touch and evident abysmal defending which saw Alfreton double their lead with just over 20 minutes gone. Annoyingly it came on the break as well, Luke O’Neill’s corner was poor and easily cleared, despite Meikle winning the second ball, his header back to O’Neill was tame and the visitors broke, Jamie Mullan’s swift cross field ball found Wilson who delivered a testing cross, the usually reliable Alan Marriott made an error of judgement flapping at the cross – he was made to pay as Mullan kept the ball in and pulled back for Paul Clayton, who made no mistake in rolling the ball into the gaping empty net. Truly awful defending, they type you’d expect from a bottom four side, rather than a side supposedly chasing the playoffs.

Stags 0-2 Alfreton

Mansfield again had chances to get back in the game before the break; Matt Green turned on the edge of the area and fired wide after a neat run from O’Neill. Paul Connor was also manhandled inside the area for what was a blatant penalty, even the Alfreton fans were bemused to why the referee awarded them a free kick rather than us a penalty. Ritchie Sutton also saw his header from an O’Neill free kick cleared off the line – all of these chances irrelevant and as the half time whistle blew, it was the visitors who we’re ahead.

It may sound like Mansfield we’re the dominant side and didn’t get the rub of the green, yes we created chances but there is no way we can shy away from the fact we didn’t take them, nor can we shy away from the fact that at the back we we’re going down quicker than the titanic, or to use another metaphor – we we’re like melting butter as the Alfreton blunt knife eased its way through. The fact is, we we’re two nil down at half time against one of the leagues whipping boys on home soil, we we’re losing in a league fixture to a side we’ve ALWAYS played in a pre-season fixture. The boo’s of frustrating that sounded loudly around Field Mill we’re more than acceptable and more than understood. How the mighty had fallen.

Half Time: Mansfield 0-2 Alfreton

The crowd we’re treated to entertainment curtsey of my co-commentator Scott attempting the cross bar challenge, had it not been for the wind I’ve a feeling he’d have been in the money! However as he and his boots made their way back up to the press box, the Field Mill crowd all knew the second half needed to be a massive improvement and that the ‘star quality, belief and ability’ myself and Scott speak about on air week in week out, including yesterday, would transpire on the pitch. We believed the comeback could happen – question is, did the players, those who had the opportunity to change things?

What Mansfield needed first and foremost was someone to stand up and take control, but if we’re being totally truthful – they needed help too. Three minutes into the second half, help a helping hand arrived; Martin Riley clattered a headed effort against the bar from O’Neill’s free kick and from the resulting goal kick, collided with Anthony Wilson. Wilson was judged to have fouled and was shown a second yellow card of the game, the first came during the first half for exactly the same offence. The Alfreton man had no complaints as he headed off the pitch, it’s just a shame the same couldn’t be said on the hour mark as Greg Young received the same fate as his team mate.

You may be wondering we’re the write up of incidents is from the 12 minute spell between each red card, truth is there isn’t any bar Paul Connor getting booked, nothing had changed from Mansfield’s point of view – they were still awful.

Anyway, back to Young’s 60^th minute dismissal, it came as Mansfield actually put together a sharp move on the attack, Adam Murray quickly took a stags throw in, with Green and O’Neill working a 1-2 with the latter then sending Meikle on his way down the right hand side. The former Eastwood winger was taken down by Young who instantly received his 2^nd yellow, taking his frustration out on the tunnel as he made his disgraced exit leaving his team with nine men – could they cope and get a precious victory. Luke O’Neill delivered another testing ball from the resulting free kick which was headed behind for a corner, Andy Todd replaced Joe Kendrick as the stags searched for more attacking options. O’Neill’s corner was scurried clear and with no Alfreton man forward to attack, Alan Marriott trotted out to the half way line to sweep up.

The clock continued to tick in the wrong direction for Mansfield and the fact is, Alfreton may have been two men down, they we’re still two goals ahead. On 75 minutes, Paul Connor took a tumble inside the box after great movement between Green and Bolland – with stags’ designated penalty taker again not on the park (Briscoe), it was leading scorer Green who took centre stage. The pressure was immense, miss the penalty and the mind set would be at an all time low, whilst brave and deservingly leading Alfreton would grow in confidence, score and the game was back on. Left, Right or down the middle – high or low, soft or drilled – goal or miss, it really was that simple. Field Mill fell quiet and Green began his staggered run up, his final effort saw the ball lifted high past the keeper and bulge in the top corner of the net – Field Mill let out a cry of relief. However, the stags we’re still behind and the clock still ticking.

Stags 1-2 Alfreton

The stags then went hell for leather, switching from 4-4-2 to a 2-4-4 even at times a 2-3-5 Paul Cox and Mansfield needed to level the score, Andy Todd covered every blade of grass from the moment he came on, it was he who then embarked on an unchallenged run, finally cutting inside and curling a shot wide – but the leveller still wouldn’t come, frustration grew again.

On 78 minutes, Ross Dyer slammed a shot into the side netting from two yards after great work from O’Neill, Meikle and Connor; his blushes sparred just by the offside flag, a minute later O’Neill and Murray combined to feed Green who swivelled on the edge of the box before firing over, Mansfield needed something to click as the final 10 minutes approached.

Four minutes remained and you could hear some frustrated footsteps thump out of field mill early with Alfreton still in the lead, Martin Riley trotted forwards unchallenged as any sense of formation disappeared for the stags, Lindon Meikle received the final pass and cut past his man on to the edge of the box, you could hear the collective gasp as Meikle swung back his boot, the connection was sweet and the ball crashed into the top corner to a massive roar of celebration – The stags we’re level against 9 men, all that was left to do was grab a winner.

Stags 2-2 Alfreton

Alfreton had thrown on Chris Senior in the mist of the stags storm, the hatred for him and his heartbreaking Wembley antics still evident as boo’s rang out. Strangely, he restarted the game with a shot from kick off, this time Marriott was watching it all the way into his hands to a wry smile ‘you’ve beaten me once, never again’

Skipper Murray was instrumental in Mansfield’s last comeback from 2-0 down at half time (Gateshead at home at the end of last season), it was he who tested the water once more from the edge of the box, this time his effort was just wide of the target and it looked as if Mansfield would have to settle for a draw.

As the attendance was being read out, 2982, Mansfield we’re on the attack again – Matt Green let fly from the angle and missed the target by some distance, however Todd fought and kept it alive, letting fly from the tightest of angles – somehow the ball bobbled in off Joe Day, Field Mill erupted with Joy, with myself and Scott Rogers unable to contain our delight live on air, cheering along with the fans as Todd was mobbed by team mates in the far corner of the pitch. Mansfield didn’t deserve it by any stretch of the imagination but all the same, the lead was theirs at last deep into injury time.

Stags 3-2 Alfreton

With a minute left of additional time left, goal scorer and forever a legend now Todd sent Dyer on his way forward, at the last second Dyer fed Connor who fired wide missing a golden chance to put the game beyond doubt, soon after the full time blew and Mansfield had sealed the points – unbelievably and frankly undeservedly.

Full Time: Mansfield 3-2 Alfreton

My comments may seem negative and admittedly they are, however having witnessed the same unacceptably poor defensive display for the past four games, I refuse to let three points paper over the cracks – you can only put so many skeletons in the closet before it over flows and bursts open. We should have had the game dead, buried and well beyond reach before the 10 minute mark, if you don’t take your chances you will get punished, and that’s exactly what happened.

Alfreton weren’t particularly brilliant, but they were persistent and made the most of our failings. They’ll feel hard done by with the penalty and two red cards, I’m sure the video will show they’ve no room for complaints – many will say we got lucky, I won’t argue with that, we didn’t come alive until we had two men more – how many sides win a league by relying on sending’s off? None.

We need someone to take control at the back, we need to stand up and be counted in that back four, we’ve become too much of a calm ocean which teams are using to sail smoothly to the land of easy goals. What we need is a volcano type figure in there, someone to spread the message ‘if you come at us, you will get burnt’ Until John Thompson is fit enough for his debut, Rhys Day should be lacing up his boots and pulling his shirt on.

Ranting over and looking at the other side, we grabbed the goals required and completed the turnaround, the history books will forever show a stags victory – I just hope that when this group of players look back and read this story, they can look beyond the points and build on a very plucky, below par, unacceptable performance. Please do not do that to me again, but thank you for the points and one hell of a memory – my love for you will never die.

In previous years, I’d be worried that the cracks would reappear, this season has a different feel to it, yes I’m cautious but I believe in my Mansfield Town – the bigger picture is still in sight. Roll on the next game, an FA Cup home tie against Fleetwood! Regular updates with me from 2PM 106.9FM & online – see the link on the right hand side.

Thanks for reading, extended podcast below.

Photos: Dan Westwell & James Williamson

PODCAST

CTA #16 Lincoln Vs Stags

Blue Square Bet Premier Game #16: Lincoln City Vs Mansfield Town – Sincil Bank, Tuesday 18^th October 7.45PM

‘All’s fair in love and war’

I’ve said this many times before and I’m sure I’ll say it many more times until we return to the promise land – the blue square bet premier has its positives and its negatives – a massive negative for us has been the lack of ‘derby’ action. Fair enough in our first season, we drew the C word (I refuse to dirty my blog with the full title) in the FA Cup, however taunts from start to finish about the gap in league standings plus a humiliating defeat saw us all curse the magical FA Cup. The agony about that game was the fact we didn’t know when both sides would lock horns again, in fact we still don’t! My point is, the BSBP has thrown up no derby league action at all – that was until we travelled to Lincoln City’s Sincil Bank on Tuesday for the first time since January 2008.

Each trip to Sincil Bank has given me some memories, some good and some not so. Take for instance the time the home support chose to throw flares at us travelling fans – one landed right in the middle of the stags support, missing a small child by inches. I’m glad the individuals responsible we’re dealt with and that, the following year in stand it was the football that made the headlines as a struggling Mansfield struck in the last minute to get three points and inject some hope of relegation survival. We all know what happened there (excuse me whilst I cry once more).

Back to the current season and following a 3-1 defeat at home to Southport at the weekend, Paul Cox made five changes to his side. In came Martin Riley, Joe Kendrick, Paul Connor, Paul Bolland (Full debut) and Lindon Meikle, whilst Ben Futcher, Tom Naylor, Louis Briscoe, Jon Worthington and Andy Todd went out.

Alan Marriott

Luke O’Neill – Martin Riley (Futcher) – Ritchie Sutton – Joe Kendrick (Naylor)

Ross Dyer – Paul Bolland (Worthington) – Adam Murray (C) – Lindon Meikle (Todd)

Paul Connor (Briscoe) – Matt Green.

BENCH: Shane Redmond – Jon Worthington – Louis Briscoe – Andy Todd – Rhys Day.

With the trip to Sincil Bank being one of the shortest, it wasn’t a surprise to see so many stags fans out in force, from the far side (stood at the back of the main stand behind the dugouts and tunnel) the away end looked rammed, the noise was electric and as the stags we’re lead out by skipper Murray, I had to remember I was live on air to stop myself singing along with the magnificent travelling support!

As the game got underway, the visiting support refused to be silenced as the struggling home side started brightly, Good combination play between Alan Power and John Nutter saw the latter deliver a ball into the box which former imp Alan Marriott collected with ease. Moments later, Nutter delivered a quick free kick following Murray’s foul, however Sam Smith was flagged offside.

Luke O’Neill delivered some testing long throw ins from the right hand side, however it was his covering movement which played a key part in creating Mansfield’s first real chance of the game with 11 minutes gone. Kendrick’s free kick was headed away to Lindon Meikle who combined with O’Neill, Meikle whipped in a testing cross from O’Neill’s return ball, Lincoln headed away but didn’t bank on Adam Murray’s eagerness for a first goal of the season, the stags skipper controlled neatly and fired a half volley from distance into the hands of the grateful keeper.

Mansfield had been undone on several occasions by the long throw in on Saturday, O’Neill continued to attempt long throws for the stags, nearly seeing one pay off with 19 gone. The ball whizzed in and fell nicely for Paul Connor, his shot deflected into the path of Dyer who couldn’t find the back of the net under pressure – from the hosts scurried clearance, stags built again, Martin Riley fed O’Neill wide right, his first time left footed cross was headed on by Connor who found Green, however the Oxford loan man was flagged offside.

Three minutes later it was the home side who created problems, John Nutter’s left footed in swinging corner was chipped back in after being headed away, Sam Smith pulled away from his marker to force Marriott into a neat save on his return to Sincil Bank.

A good passing movement saw Meikle fire into the side netting as the half passed the midway point, Meikle then set another good passing move up which ended in Matt Green being denied by Imps shot stopper Joe Anyon. However it was Meikle who was closest to opening the scoring seven minutes from the break. Joe Kendrick’s left sided throw found Green who in turn fed Meikle, who smashed a curling effort against the corner of the cross bar, the ball agonisingly bouncing back down and away rather than down and in.

No real chances of note followed Meikle’s spectacular effort and the half fizzled out, the half time whistle signalling 2,944 supporters plus two members of the press racing for the warm half time refreshments!

Half Time: Lincoln 0-0 Stags

An end to end couple of minutes opened the second half, Joe Kendrick & Lindon Meikle we’re stopped in their tracks by Tony Sinclair, his clearance wasn’t dealt with by Sutton or Riley and Gavin McAllum screwed a shot wide.

Lincoln began to look livelier as the game went on, Alan Power controlled things well for the imps and Karl Cunningham was unfortunate not to see his effort find the target. Mansfield needed someone to take control once more so typically up stepped skipper Murray, and his midfield partner Paul Bolland to start one of the stags’ best moves of the game. Bolland, making his first start since joining us from Macclesfield in the summer, found O’Neill wide right who nipped off to find space giving the ball to Murray. Paul Connor then provided the link to send O’Neill on his way once more, however his pass to Matt Green was pressured and Lincoln got half a foot too it. Bolland picked up play again and allowed Murray space to work some passes, eventually spraying the ball left for Kendrick to deliver a testing cross – Ross Dyer rose highest at the back stick heading narrowly over.

Mansfield should have been ahead with 67 on the clock, Luke O’Neill delivered a free kick perfectly for Martin Riley who headed powerfully towards goal – denied only by a fine save from Anyon in the imps’ goal, and Ritchie Sutton was also unfortunate to put the rebound wide.

Despite Mansfield’s chances, it was the home side who opened the scoring with 76 minutes on the clock, Adam Murray looked to get Mansfield moving down the right but couldn’t find Dyer with the pass, Joe Anyon sprinted off his line to intervene – his clearance stayed in play and dropped kindly for McCallum at the other end after Martin Riley tied himself in knots. McCallum fired fiercely past Marriott who stood no chance.

Lincoln 1-0 Stags

Paul Cox introduced Louis Briscoe for Ross Dyer and the stags kept creating chances as the noise from the away end got louder with each kick, Anyon kept out efforts from Briscoe, Connor, Kendrick & Meikle before finally conceding four minutes from time. Paul Bolland sent Paul Connor through with a lovely weighted pass, the former imp’s striker saw the run of strike partner Green and slotted in a neat left footed pass which Green slid onto and tapped home to level the game, before sprinting over to the away end which had erupted in celebration.

Lincoln 1-1 Stags

Mansfield sensed a winner and nearly got one straight from the restart, Adam Murray won the ball back and played a neat ball over the top in search of Green, however Anyon was determined not to concede a second in quick succession and powered out to clear the loose ball.

Lindon Meikle curled a tame effort miles wide, much to the disappointment of Green, Connor and Briscoe who were all cueing up inside the box as Lincoln crumbled. This would prove to be Meikle’s last kick as he pulled up with cramp; Andy Todd replaced him for the final few minutes of the game.

A late chip by Murray found Connor who sent Green on his way wide left, doing well to earn the stags a throw in – Luke O’Neill raced across to deliver it long, but no sooner had O’Neill launched the ball back into play; the referee blew the full time whistle.

Full Time: Lincoln 1-1 Stags

Sorry for the lateness of this post, I’ve had some personal issues to deal with which has taken up a proportion of my time, I promise normal service will be resumed at the weekend! Join myself & Scott Rogers on 106.9FM & online (link on the right) for regular updates on Stags Vs Alfreton on Saturday afternoon from 2.

Thanks for reading.

PICS: Dan Westwell

PODCAST: 

CTA #15 Mansfield Vs Southport

Blue Square Bet Premier Game #15 Mansfield Town Vs Southport – Field Mill, Saturday 15^th October 2011 3PM

‘When the stars go out’

Football as we all know is a beautiful game; I was thinking the other week about the best thing about being a football fan, basically asking myself – what makes football beautiful? After pacing the house for ages trying to come up with one answer, I discovered that, there is not one particular thing; there are just moments, places and memories.

Every fan’s moment, memory or place will be different, and as I reflect on yesterday’s game against Southport, it’s not one of my three that provides the inspiration and questions which link so well with this blog; it’s actually one from my co-commentator on Takeover Radio, Scott Rogers. I won’t go into the reasoning why, I’ll just say it’s an empty Field Mill in the late evening setting.

I can picture it myself, the place so silent and peaceful, the memories of so many high moments flooding through your head as if they’re being played out live in front of you once again. I imagine it to be a feeling so strong; every trouble in the world will vanish. The picture I create in my head is being sat in my own seat (press box number 106!) looking down on the action, after various scenes being played out, I go to leave, happy that my troubles have vanished and that the stars that shine above Field Mill will guide me.

Sometimes though, the reality of life see’s a dream turn into a nightmare – something which happened yesterday as I sat in the same seat, this time in the beautiful autumn afternoon setting. I’d been through the dreams, the visions, the memories, the moments – when suddenly, the little devil on my shoulder stabbed the Craig angel with his fiery pitchfork, and whispered in a grim, shuddering voice ‘It’s all well and good having these dreams, but ask yourself – what happens when the stars go out’ The devil flew up into the sky and combust into a ball of flames before turning into the afternoons team sheet, as I browsed the line ups, I hoped the stars would never go out and our season of dreams would continue.

Paul Cox made one change to the side which came from behind to beat Grimsby last Saturday, returning from suspension Louis Briscoe was brought straight back into the starting 11 to replace Lindon Meikle.        

Alan Marriott

Tom Naylor – Ben Fucther – Ritchie Sutton – Luke O’Neill

Louis Briscoe (Meikle) – Adam Murray (C) – Jon Worthington – Andy Todd

Ross Dyer – Matt Green

SUBS: Shane Redmond – Martin Riley – Paul Connor – Paul Bolland – Lindon Meikle.

The stags got proceedings underway, having a couple of early chances in the opening minutes. First Tom Naylor linked up well with the returning Briscoe from the formers throw, Naylor turned under pressure to find Worthington who sent a ball in the direction of Green, however former Stag Simon Grand got a foot in to clear. Moments later stags were on the move again, Naylor’s long ball found Green who dropped wide right to pick up play, the Oxford loan man put in a cross with the outside of his right boot – however there seemed no eagerness for a stags body to connect and as the ball trickled out for a throw, I began to fear my devils words.

Mansfield had another two golden chances to open the game, Luke O’Neill’s throw in with nine minutes on the clock found Green on the edge of the box, he opened himself up but saw the ball bobble away, Louis Briscoe picked it up and tested the water from distance – firing well wide of the target. Three minutes later, Worthington’s controlled header to Tom Naylor saw the much wanted defender chip a ball forward for Matt Green, Green turned onto his left foot and fired over from just inside the box.

Southport came into the game four games unbeaten and nearly opened the scoring moments later from a free kick. Tony Gray struck well from 35 yards, catching Marriott by surprise. The former Lincoln shot stopper parried the strong effort straight into the path of Godfrey Poku, who smashed the follow up against the bar from 4 yards.

A nicely worked move between Dyer and Briscoe then followed as stags briefly opened up the visitors, Briscoe played a neat 1-2 with Dyer after picking up the ball from Worthington’s pass, however Briscoe dragged his shot wide with 19 on the clock and four minutes later Briscoe was left cursing his miss, as Southport took the lead.

Tom Naylor slammed the ball away for a throw in under pressure from Shaun Whalley; however it would be Naylor’s last action as he pulled up injured. Naylor was replaced by Martin Riley who slotted in at centre back with Ritchie Sutton going to the vacant right back slot. With Mansfield still adjusting themselves, Southport’s Andy Owens launched a long throw into the box; Andy Todd unfortunately was credited with the final touch as a sluggish stags put the ball into their own net.

Stags 0-1 Southport

Mansfield offered nothing in reply and Southport made them pay by grabbing a deserved second as they opened the stags up at every turn. Shaun Whalley cut in from the right wing and let fly inside the area, seeing his shot balloon off the back of Martin Riley’s leg over the diving Alan Marriott and into the empty net.

Stags 0-2 Southport

Southport continued to look for a third before the break but couldn’t find one, tea lady Doris again sprinted to the dressing room to remove the expensive cups before Paul Cox and Micky Moore delivered the half time team talk.

Half Time: Stags 0-2 Southport

In a bid to turn the game on its head, Paul Cox made his final two substitutions, bringing on Paul Connor and Lindon Meikle for Louis Briscoe and Andy Todd. Connor, who scored in a friendly at Solihull Moors on Monday evening, partnered Green upfront whilst Dyer slotted wide right and fresh on Meikle, on the left.

Mansfield had a mountain to climb to turn the game around, two minutes into the second half they made it harder for themselves. Slack defending and miscommunication saw Tony Gray beat the offside trap, slotting past Marriott into the bottom corner to delight the 114 travelling fans behind the goal.

Stags 0-3 Southport  

Mansfield were falling apart and Southport should have had a fourth minutes later, Gray again beat the flag and attempted to chip Marriott, however the stags shot stopper stood tall to catch the ball and send Dyer on his way. What followed was a good piece of play, Dyer found Murray who in an instant switched play to Meikle who charged forwards into space. Meikle was fouled around 35 yards from goal, Luke O’Neill’s resulting free kick bounced kindly for the visiting keeper to collect.

Ross Dyer then fought to win the ball back and charged free into space, however the former Forest Green front man over ran the ball and Tony McMillian easily collected racing off his line.

The stags finally grabbed one back with 76 on the clock. Luke O’Neill’s right footed in swinging corner found Paul Connor in the air, the burley front man headed towards goal but saw his effort blocked in the goal mouth. Stags screamed for a penalty with the block being made by a defenders trailing arm, the referee sprinted to the linesman who judged the ball to have crossed the line. The referee awarded the goal, with Paul Connor getting the credit from the PA (Press Association).

Stags 1-3 Southport

A late O’Neill free kick was nearly converted by Green at the back post, but it was Southport who kept pushing and took home the points following 4 minutes of added time. The stags lacked fight, belief and painfully the desire, to go on and climb the mountain.

Full Time: Stags 1-3 Southport

It was a below par and totally unacceptable performance from the Mansfield Town I thought had turned a corner, I don’t know if it was complacency, arrogance or just a poor showing, in honesty – I don’t care. I’m angry that my team have let me down and I won’t for one second try and make excuses – what I will say though is, if past experience has taught anything, it’s not to dwell on our failings – but come together to out things right.

I believe Paul Cox will put things right and I expect the stags to come out fighting on Tuesday night at Lincoln. The next two games are dubbed as ‘derby’s’ so we need to fight and send out the message that we are not back to our old selves. The new Mansfield are worthy of promotion and WILL get it no matter who stands in our way.

Heads up, move on and back the boys – I’ll be in the opposite stand to the stags fans on Tuesday night, but I want to hear you roar – spurring us onto victory. If you can’t get join myself and the man who inspired today’s blog (Scott Rogers) from 7.30PM for full match commentary, on 106.9FM and www.takeoverradio.net
So what happens when the stars go out? Do we lose and crumble into the devils pit, or rally round and create the light to guide us forward? I guess the next few weeks will tell us.
Thanks for reading.   

PHOTOS: James Williamson

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