Mansfield Town under-18s face Port Vale at RH Academy this Saturday in the Youth Alliance League (11am kick-off).
Stags were beaten narrowly 4-3 by Rotherham United in their last outing.
Professional development phase lead coach Steve Chettle was left frustrated following a match Mansfield led twice in.
“It was a very frustrating day for us,” he said.
“We were very good towards the end of the second-half and went 2-0 up but we didn’t start the game in either half well.
“We conceded from two set plays and also conceded a penalty.
“If we look at the performance it was very good, if we take out the individual mistakes.
“We have done okay and we move on to Port Vale this Saturday.”
The coach expects to face a well organised Valiants’ side at the weekend.
“We’ll do most of our preparation work tomorrow [Friday] when we’re back on the training pitch,” Steve said.
“They’re really organised. We’ve done our homework on the opposition through our video analysis.
“We’ll have to wait until we get there and see what shape they’ll play but we’ll be ready for whatever they throw at us.”
Forward McKeal Abdullah was given his first senior start in the EFL Trophy in midweek as Stags beat Doncaster Rovers 3-2. Midfielder Finn Flanagan – an 86 minute debutant from the bench – and defender Darien Wauchope, were also in the squad.
“We’re really pleased with all the boys to be involved in the first team squad.
“We’re delighted that McKeal started the game. We’re really pleased that Finn got on as well and Darien being in the squad.
“It’s a great boost for all the lads that are involved in the Academy system that the gaffer is prepared to give everybody a chance when they do well in the youth team.”
Supporters can attend the match for FREE at the following venue:
RH Academy
Woburn Lane
Pleasley
Mansfield
NG19 7RT
