Full deserved clean sheet at last for Mansfield Town says Ryan Sweeney after Dons draw
Mansfield Town defender Ryan Sweeney said the Stags were delighted to secure a rare clean sheet as they stopped a run of defeats with a hard-earned 0-0 draw at AFC Wimbledon.
Stags had lost four on the bounce but, despite missing several key players, dug deep to bring home a point from the capital, though Lucas Akins failed to convert a one on one in the opening minute that might have won a game of few chances in the end.
“It was definitely a good point,” said Sweeney.
“One of the mantras of today was to try to stop that run of defeats and we did that.
“We had a chance early on to go 1-0 up but couldn't quite take it.
“But it was a solid performance.
“We had to dig in second half and I can't really remember Robbo (keeper Liam Roberts) having a save of note to make, though I know they hit the bar first half.
“They make it really difficult for you, putting the ball into the box, but I thought we stood up to it pretty well today.
“We have not had enough clean sheets this year but I think over the course of the season so far we have deserved some.
“At times we have defended really well but maybe just not had that bit of luck or bounce of the ball. So it was really good to keep one today.
“We knew before it was going to be a really tough game, so taking a point is a big confidence-booster for us.”
Stags did win a series of corners and free kicks, but Sweeney said: “They have some big boys - they are an aggressive side - and they defended them well.
“I think it was a day when the defenders came out slightly on top.”
Baily Cargill had a goal chalked off for an infringement amid the goalmouth melee, but Stags are still not sure why.
“We have seen it back and I am not too sure what the referee gave it for,” said Sweeney
“I thought their keeper collided with their defender and Bails just picked up the pieces and scored. So we were disappointed with that.
“But you are not going to get every decision so we move on.”