Boston United 0 Mansfield Town 0

Last updated : 20 November 2004 By Footymad Previewer

Boston and Mansfield had to settle for a point a piece following a keenly contested encounter at York Street.

Boston battled manfully for their share of the spoils as they had to play for 53 minutes with just 10 men with defender Lee Beevers dismissed for two bookable offensives.

The result maintained Boston's unbeaten home record, while Mansfield had to settle for another winless return on the road which now stretches back to August 15th.

There was little in the way of clear openings early on with Mansfield content to play a high line in defence, while utilising Colin Larkin as a lone striker.

Boston, though, missed out on 12 minutes when a low cross by Tam McManus somehow eluded Jason Lee and Danny Thomas.

Three minutes later Mansfield went close when a David Artell flicked header from a deflected Neil Mackenzie free-kick was expertly tipped away by Nathan Abbey.

In reply Boston exerted spells of pressure which were constantly thwarted by a well organised Stags back line.

The match erupted into drama on 37 minutes when Artell felled Lee Beevers at the expense of a booking and penalty while the Boston player was sent off for retaliation.

After all the furore, Tom McManus stepped up but saw a tame spot kick saved by Kevin Pilkington.

Mansfield with their numerical advantage were quick to launch attacks at the start of the second half. First Artell fired wide from a Neil Mackenzie free kick and then Alex Neil and Colin Larkin both tested Abbey.

Boston tried hard to create pressure at the other end and in the 60th minute a low skimming shot by Jason Lee brought Pilkington in to saving action.

Boston managed to create a great opening in the 73rd minute when Lee and Lee Thompson prized open the visiting defence but new signing Daryl Claire fired over the top.

In the 85th minute Boston went close again when, following a partially cleared free kick by Austin McCann, Paul Ellender crossed form the right and Lee ballooned over form close range.

In stoppage time Mansfield almost snatched a win but Mackenzie saw a shot on the run beaten away by Nathan Abbey.