Stags’ striker Matt Green was delighted to make an impact after coming off the bench to score a brace in today’s 3-1 win against Notts County.
After his match-winner against Port Vale last time out, he again came off the bench to make the difference as his brace contributed to a thrilling derby day win, which was rounded off by Darius Henderson’s late goal.
Green was introduced into the action on 54 minutes to replace Danny Rose, and he scored from his very first touch. His second came in the final minutes of the second-half, when he drilled home from a spot-kick.
The attacker has now scored six goals in 14 appearances in all competitions this term, and following the game he stressed the importance of capitalising on their opponents’ errors late in the game.
“It was a typical derby game. It was quite flat at times and the tempo changed from one minute to the next,” said the former Birmingham City man.
“[It was] very scrappy and the chances [weren’t] clear-cut. In the latter part of the game, there were tired legs and mistakes get made, and we were able to capitalise on them.
“The manager’s decided to start me on the bench and come on and have an impact. We’ve got a good squad and it’s important to come on and make an impact when you get [introduced]. I am glad that we got the result.
“I knew there were going to be chances there; the front two of Rosie (Danny Rose) and Pat Hoban wore them down for the majority of the game. I just had to make sure that I was sharp and the gaffer’s just said to me: ‘come on and take your chances’, and today I have done that for him.”
Reflecting on the atmosphere inside One Call Stadium, the 29-year-old praised the home fans’ support and highlighted the importance of supporters and players working together.
“It was so electric. We need the fans to support us, and when they are like this, when they are singing and are getting the drama out of this, it is just so much about an environment to play in.
“The home fans got to believe in us and support us as well. We've got to out there and do the business for them, and they have got to support us come rain or shine. If we can come together like that, then it is going to be a recipe which is going to be successful.”
Supporters can view Matt Green’s post-match interview on Stags PlayerHD.
