Mansfield Town

Boss' thoughts on draw with Vanarama South outfit.

Manager Paul Cox believes our team should be proud of their efforts, despite tonight's 1-1 draw with non-league Concord Rangers at One Call Stadium.

An own goal by Danny Glozier put us ahead early in the first half, but a thunderous 30-yard strike by Jordan Chiedozie - undoubtedly a contender for Goal of the Season, earned the plucky visitors a replay next week.

Speaking after the game, our boss said: "I think we got nervous in possession, but I can’t ask much more of my players. Rakish has hit the target, Clem (Chris Clements) has hit the target, and I know many people will say by certain scenarios we should beat these teams 7-0 but it doesn’t always happen, this is the FA Cup.

"It was never going to be easy, but I thought we tried to be brave. We tried to move the ball and we created some half decent chances, and the three saves their 'keeper pulled off was probably the difference.  Overall, the only thing I can complain about is for the wonder strike, we fell asleep straight after we scored.”

When asked about whether he was dreading a trip down Concord's tiny Aspect Arena next Tuesday, Cox insisted that he’s not fretting over adding another game to an already busy winter period.

“It’s another game," said our boss. "Two years ago we did exactly the same thing, we played Slough at home, had a same sort of result, then we went down there and won on penalties. There aren’t any easy games in football now.”

Cox heaped praise on both goalkeepers tonight, with special recognition for opposing 'keeper Josh Vickers.

He continued: “Their keeper has pulled off three world class saves, the last one being out of this world. You can see why he comes from Arsenal. I don’t even remember Sascha having much to do other than tipping that one effort over the bar.”

Looking ahead to Saturday’s home game with Plymouth Argyle, Cox believes the game with the Pilgrims is just one of the difficult fixtures that we face over the winter.

The manager added: “We have always said we have that November and December will be a tough couple of months, but I think some people forget that since the beginning of the season and with the injuries we’ve had, the players just need some confidence and people to cheer them on. We’ll work hard to put three points on the board on Saturday.”

A full interview with Paul Cox can now be seen on Stags Player. To subscribe, click here.