Funk praises AFC Mansfield for shrugging off shaky start

AFC could have fallen two goals behind to Brett Marshall’s outfit before a double from talisman Ollie Fearon calmed the nerves and teed up a 4-0 victory.

“Staveley came with a battle plan,” said Funk. “They attacked us and tried to break us down from the get-go. But after a poor start, the tide eventually turned.

“Once we got the first goal, thanks to Ollie, we were able to exploit the gaps they were leaving. In my opinion, it was a very comfortable win.”

Staveley paid the price for their lacklustre finishing early on as Fearon struck with a couple of close-range efforts minutes before half-time that left goalkeeper Matthew Leese with no chance.

The Bulls continued their dominance in the second half when Connor Smythe’s whipped-in corner caught Leese off guard and slipped therough his hands at the near post to make it 3-0 on 80 minutes.

The scoring was rounded off by substitute Lynton Karkach, who cut inside with aplomb and rifled a shot that cannoned in off the far post.

The victory set up AFC nicely for this Saturday’s key clash at home to fellow title-chasers Pickering Town. Added Funk: “It’s a crucial time for us, and this win was a big step forward as we enter the final month of the season.”