Mansfield Town gearing up for stern test at Walsall

The Saddlers have gone off the boil in the last five games and have slipped to 11th in the League Two table.

But Clough knows Walsall are more than capable of ending Stags’ five game winning run.

“Walsall are a very solid team who are more than capable of causing bother,” said Clough.

“They are on the verge of the play-offs and it will be a tough one.

"It will be a similar game to the Southend one and we need to make sure we don't make mistakes. I fancy us to score, I fancy us to get a game in every game.

“They are a dangerous team, like quite a few teams in the league.

“Every time you play a Darrell Clarke team you’re in for a tough time - in the right way. He wants his teams to compete.”

Mansfield drew 1-1 at home to Walsall in October as Nigel Clough watched on from the stands.

Since that game Stags have enjoyed a major change in fortunes, with Clough citing increased confidence as a key factor.

“Walsall at home was the first game I saw,” he added. “It was a very even game that day. Confidence in the team has come on since then. It has been a big thing.

“It is amazing that ten weeks ago we were talking about the first win and now here we are with five on the spin.

“We have formed a good relationship with the players quickly.

“We feel close to them which is a good thing, that normally takes 4-5 months to build up so it has made settling in much easier.

“Walsall will give a stern test and a good test.”

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