Robust striker Pat Hoban believes Stags’ excellent team spirit contributed to tonight’s well-earned 1-1 draw at Accrington Stanley.
A typically spirited Mansfield showed endeavour in spades this evening to earn the draw at the Wham Stadium.
Chris Clements’ superbly-hit first half strike was cancelled out by Terry Gornell’s goal for Accrington.
And frontman Hoban, making his first league start since his summer switch from Oxford United, cut a figure of mixed emotions at the final whistle; pleased with earning a point, but frustrated at not being able to claim all three.
The former Dundalk striker said: “I thought we were absolutely excellent in the first half, it was just unfortunate we gave away what I thought was a soft goal. We’ll take a point but it could easily have been three.
“We’ve been so close [to getting three points recently]. The last two games, we’ve had 27 shots, but we’ve needed the rub of the green.”
“We got a goal tonight and the team spirit is excellent.
“The atmosphere in the dressing room is second to none and that’s down to the gaffer putting that in. We’re a tight unit. There’s a good attitude in training and we have a good fire, bite and a will to win.”
Hoban won the majority of headers which came his way and his performance was complemented by some neat link-up play.
Encouraged by gaining his first start of the season for the Stags, the 25-year-old is confident he can continue to improve.
“It wasn’t the ideal start for me, getting injured. I’ve worked hard on the training ground and have had to bide my time.
“I am delighted to be back and it was good to get 75 minutes out there today. The more I play, the more match fitness I’ll get, the sharper I’ll get and the better I’ll get.“
Pat Hoban's interview will be available to view on Stags PlayerHD soon.
