Mansfield Town

Midfielder Ricky Ravenhill, one of five players making their debut today, felt his new team were unlucky in their narrow defeat to title chasers Burton Albion at the Pirelli Stadium.

With the Stags 2-0 down at half-time, a much improved performance, which included a goal by winger Reggie Lambe, saw the game finish 2-1 although the new midfielder took the positives from the defeat.

“I think we showed in the second half that we dominated and large parts of the game, created some good chances and did some really good things, so to come away with a 2-1 loss is very frustrating,” said the 33-year-old.

“But there are loads of positives to come out of today as well I think – some of the stuff that we did in the second half and the way we put a top of the league team to the sword.”

Despite the narrow defeat, Ravenhill believes that our team have the foundations of a strong side that can kick on and win games.

He continued: “We know we’ve got to cut out the sloppy goals and the mistakes, but I’ve seen enough hear today and what I’ve seen since I’ve been here in training to know that we’ve got a good set of lads with a lot of ability in the team and I think we have a bit of everything now to go forward.

“There has been a lot of taking information on board this week – trying to take on and learn the way that we want to play and the way we want to do things so it will take time.”

The experienced midfielder added: “It’s is a great set of lads here. Everyone has been made to feel welcome, including myself, so that is not an issue, but like I said it will take time for things to gel fully.

“I think you look at the second half, especially for a team that has stuck five new players in, there are a lot of positives to come out of it.”

Ravenhill also thanked travelling fans for their support today describing them as ‘unbelievable’ as the away support made noise throughout the 90 minutes.