Stags’ captain Lee Collins believes the team are starting to build momentum after recording their fourth consecutive clean sheet this afternoon.
The amber and blue played out a goalless draw away to Notts County in the 1pm kick-off and should have won the match after Yoann Arquin missed a glorious chance in the second half from new signing Hayden White’s assist.
Arquin’s miss was the best opportunity in a contest of few clear cut chances.
“I’d have to see it again but I think Yoann will be disappointed [with missing it]. He was in the box again and was a handful and has made a good start [to his Stags’ career],” said Collins.
At the other end, Stags prevented County from testing goalkeeper Jake Kean throughout the 90, a stat which encouraged the Stags’ skipper.
“They didn’t really threaten us. They’ve not had any clear shots on target. I think it was a solid performance from the back four and the ‘keeper and collectively.
“We’re starting to get a bit of a name for ourselves. We’re on a good run. It’s four clean sheets on the bounce now and we’ve been a bit unfortunate today.
“It was a bit scrappy [overall]. There was plenty of enthusiasm from both teams but a lack of end quality from both of us really.
“They’ve [Notts County] upped their game after a poor run. They’ve had the ‘new manager syndrome’ and that is to be expected.”
Speaking about his newly adopted position ahead of the back four, Collins said: “I’m enjoying it in there. There’s no rocket science to it in there, I just have to do my job.
“I just need to keep it simple and not get carried away thinking I’m Maradona all of a sudden just because I’m higher on the pitch; I just keep it basic.”
But despite his good form, the 28-year-old knows he needs to maintain his high standards.
“You know if you go out there and are shoddy for 45 minutes then you have a good chance of coming off. Everyone knows they’re fighting for their shirts, especially with the competition that has come in and possibly coming in.”
Collins gave a special mention to the 3,485 travelling Stags’ fans at today's match.
“To get that support at League Two is phenomenal. All we can do is thank them and apologise for not winning the game and getting a goal for them to get them excited. All credit to them for coming to watch us. We really appreciate it.”
Lee Collins' interview will be available in full later on Stags PlayerHD.
Lee Collins' interview will be available in full later on Stags PlayerHD.
