Striker Matt Rhead believes our team were unfortunate to lose 2-0 against Sky Bet League Two leaders Scunthorpe United this afternoon.
Despite a dominant first half from Stags, Paul Hayes’ brace including a 25-yard screamer, proved to be more than enough for the visitors to seal all three points.
Following the defeat, Rhead was frustrated with our missed opportunities and believes Scunthorpe’s opening goal was the decisive moment during the 90 minutes.
He said: “Their first goal was totally against the run of play in the first half.
“I thought we were on top for long periods, but they got a killer goal, which was superb and unstoppable. There was nothing we could do about it.
“I think we needed to react better and bounce back, but the goal seemed to deflate us.
“During the second half we didn’t seem to play at the same sort of tempo as we did in the first 45 minutes, which was a bit frustrating, but we will build on this for next week.
“The first chance we had I thought went in, but their goalkeeper did really well in pulling off a great save.
“That’s the problem at this level – we’re playing against better players and the standard is much higher. Maybe last season that chance would have gone in, but we will keep working hard.”
Rhead continued: “I think we need to take our chances - today especially. If we took the lead we would have had something to hold on to and it could have been a different game.
“Unfortunately it didn’t come and we paid the price.”
Meanwhile, despite a tough match at Portsmouth next weekend, the burly frontman is feeling confident following our good run of form away from home.
He added: “They will get a big crowd as they are a well-supported team, especially having played in the Premier League a few seasons ago.
“It’s going to be a tough place to go like any other game, but we have been better on the road so hopefully we can get something out of the game.”
