Mansfield Town manager Nigel Clough says his men ‘showed lots of different qualities’ to beat Salford 2-1 this afternoon and make it 16 league games undefeated.
Jordan Bowery and Davis Keillor-Dunn were on the scoresheet as Stags recorded a first ever win at the Peninsula Stadium.
And speaking to iFollow Stags after the match, the gaffer said the win was a result of various positive factors.
“Lots of different qualities were needed today, which we’ll need over the winter months,” said the manager.
“It’s a bit of a different game in the winter, the pitches are different and everything.
“After three defeats in the cups, it was important not to lose four on the spin, and to get back on track in the league is our priority.
“It was very much a different game than a lot of the matches we’ve had this season.
“We conceded a bit of possession and ground. I didn’t think we were good on the ball but we got the result and that’s all that matters ultimately.
“Salford play in a certain way that’s difficult to combat at times. [They have] Good movement, are all very comfortable on the ball, they get into little areas that cause you a problem.”
When asked about the two goals scored by Mansfield, the manager was quick to praise the quality of striker Jordan Bowery, who has played much of this season at right full-back.
“He’s absolutely invaluable to us, being able to play in as many positions as he does for us and it’s lovely for him to get a goal.
“When you play against a team like Salford, because you’re not going to have as much of the ball as we normally do, it’s important you hurt them when you do get it [an opportunity]. That’s a prime example with Jordan.”
Salford scored three minutes after the opener, but Mansfield were back in front through Davis Keillor-Dunn on 37 minutes.
“It was the first time after about 35 minutes that we had a bit of controlled possession where we kept it for 10 or 15 passes. We moved it out to the right. Callum’s put a wonderful cross in and Davis is in there. It’s good for him to get a goal. “
The win extends Stags’ unbeaten streak to 16 league games and Nigel said: “It’s brilliant. I’ve just said to the players, as important these three points are in isolation today, to do 16 games is a brilliant achievement.
“Having lost the three cup games, it gives us a little belief back.
“[It’s] Brilliant for the supporters and everybody. To come here a few times and not get anything, and to come and get the three points [is brilliant].”
Elsewhere, the manager confirmed that midfielder Ollie Clarke will be sidelined between three to four weeks with a thigh strain. Defender Stephen McLaughlin will be out for the same period with a groin injury. Forward Lucas Akins underwent an operation recently following a small bone fracture on his cheek and will likely wear a mask upon his return, a timeframe for which has not yet been confirmed.
