It's been a rollercoaster ride for Stags followers over the last week.

Firstly, they were very unlucky not to get a replay against Middlesbrough last Saturday after outplaying the Premiership side for long periods during the game – not bad for a side who have been languishing at the bottom of the Football League for most of the season.

On Tuesday night, the Stags faced a genuine six pointer against fellow strugglers Lincoln City and Michael Boulding's last minute winner and 14th goal of the season was enough to give Mansfield their second away win on the trot.


Brentford make the journey up to Field Mill on Saturday and it has to be worrying that the Stags have failed to string two back-to-back victories together all season.

The Bees are in something of a purple patch since new manager Andy Scott took over in December.

Prior to his appointment they had lost five games on the bounce, but they have now taken 17 points from a possible 24 under the new boss, including three away wins and one away draw at leaders MK Dons.

I hate to do this, but I'm going to have to suggest backing a Brentford win at 6/4 with Boylesports.

The last week may well have taken a lot out of the Stags and there could be a nervous few weeks to come yet.

Spread bettors are advised to sell (bet lower) total goals at 2.4 with Sporting Index, as I think it will end up 1-0 to the Bees.

The Cheltenham Festival draws ever closer and I was unbelievably impressed by Sizing Europe's display in the Irish Champion Hurdle last Sunday.

He's available at 5/2 with Boylesports to win the English equivalent on the opening day and it will take a superstar to beat him.

He looks to have Osana and reigning champion Sublimity to beat, but if reproducing a similar performance they'll be chasing his shadows!