Safety is our own Concern

Last updated : 02 January 2006 By Editor
Nottingham Evening Post:

http://www.thisisnottingham.co.uk/

SAFETY IS OUR ONLY CONCERN - SHIRTLIFF

Peter Shirtliff is refusing to look beyond leading Mansfield to safety after they picked up their fourth point of the Christmas schedule.

Victory against Lincoln today could see them move as high as 13th. But anything short of three points could see fourth from bottom Shrewsbury leapfrog Stags and push Shirtliff's men closer to the drop zone again.

Despite being impressed with his side's displays against Bristol Rovers and Oxford last week, the Mansfield boss insists avoiding relegation is his only concern.

"I think we are now on course and now I just want enough points to be safe," he said. "The longer the season goes on, then we can start to think about other things.

Shirtliff was pleased with his side's character as they fought back after going behind to Lee Bradbury's first-half strike. Mansfield went on to dictate the second half with Rhys Day heading two goals to hand them victory.

"I thought we played well - it was our day," said Shirtliff. "I said before the game that if they keep believing and keep the same performance levels then they will start winning games.

"Rhys Day came up with the goods for us with two good goals. Over the 90 minutes I thought we deserved to win it."