Centre-half Krystian Pearce says he is proud to be a part of the Stags’ current defensive solidity and hopes to continue the excellent run of clean sheets against Cambridge United on Saturday.
The Stags have recorded an impressive four clean sheets in their last five outings, winning three and drawing two during the unbeaten run.
The impervious Mansfield rearguard has been a crucial factor for manager Steve Evans’ men going unbeaten in the previous five games, and Pearce has hailed the contributions of his defensive colleagues.
“Obviously, he (Jake Kean) has come in and done well. He has come in and just been a solid base for us,” Pearce said.
“He (Hayden White) slotted right in [to the defence] and I felt comfortable playing with him. So, hopefully we can build on it.
“For me, Lee Collins has been our best player in the last few games. He has done everything asked of him, so I am glad that he has played in front of us.”
Pearce, who has racked up 68 appearances for the Stags since switching from Torquay United in the summer of 2015, explained how he has adapted to playing with different defensive partners.
“It is about adapting to who you are playing with and trying to get the best partnership you can with whoever you are playing with.
“They (Kyle Howkins and Rhys Bennett) are both big lads, both quick and strong. They both win their headers. So we just try to complement each other as much as possible.
“Obviously I take pride in our defensive records, and I try to get as many clean sheets as possible.”
The Stags next make the trip to Cambridge United this Saturday, who are unbeaten in their last eight Sky Bet League Two fixtures.
Pearce says it is important for Stags to show that they can match teams like Cambridge United as they work towards finishing the season in the Sky Bet League Two play-off positions.
“If we are serious about getting promoted, we have to go to places like Cambridge and get the [right] results.
“Hopefully we can go down there on Saturday and keep another clean sheet and win the game. Hopefully we can get the three points everybody wants, and it would be a good game to watch.”
Supporters can view Krystian Pearce’s news conference, in its entirety, on Stags PlayerHD.
