Crucial red card was wrong, says AFC Mansfield manager

Buxton was dismissed for a challenge on the halfway line after 25 minutes with the score goalless and the Bulls went on to concede three second half goals at Yorkshire Amateur to lose 3-0.

Chatfield said: "The talking point is the red card. It was not a red card (offence), it was a tackle. That changed the dynamics of the game."

The Bulls held on until 40 seconds into the second half when Harrison Blakey slotted home from close range. He added a second with a header before substitute Aiden Savory made it three.

After the 3-0 defeat that left the Bulls 18th in the Northern Counties East League Premier Division but with matches in hand on those around them at the foot of the table, Chatfield added that keeper Hugo Warhurst might have done better with the last two goals.

“They did not really penetrate us, then Hugo throws one in. But he has saved us so many times this season so I won’t criticise.

“They didn't deserve to win 3-0, it was flattering on them. We had two good chances to score.

“When down to 10 men we weren't composed with the ball.

“Four keys players were not here today, but we should still have been able to do a job.

“But the red card made it hard, though 3-0 did not reflect the game.

“Some of our players are 17 and 18, they will learn so much. We have got to understand we are in a three-year cycle here and have to take the rough with the smooth.

“There are going to be inconsistencies at times. I am proud of how they have developed.”