Stags took a first half lead through Nathan Moriah-Welsh but the overall display hinted there was room for the travelling Silkmen to get back into the game.
Mansfield Town had several wasted opportunities and misplaced chances but a well-worked and equally deserved goal for the hard-working Rhys Oates on 72 minutes gave them a much-needed cushion to allow them room to breathe.
The second goal was enough for Stags to see the game out fairly comfortably, before a lovely stoppage time effort from Jordan Bowery hammered the final nail into the coffin in a one-on-one situation with the goalkeeper.
In the end, Stags did well to hold firm against the side who knocked out former reigning champions Crystal Palace last season.
Here’s how each player performed on Saturday against Macclesfield.
1. Liam Roberts
Had a busy first half as he was called into action multiple times in the early stages. Came out frequently to deal with danger and made a few big saves to keep Stags safe including a great stop of 39 minutes to deny Duffy on the break and then another just before half-time. Did everything right and dealt with everything that came his way to claim the clean sheet. Photo: UGC
2. Ryan Sweeney
Threw himself into challenges to keep Macclesfield out, including a good spot on 43 minutes to get in the way of a promising pass and stop the away side in their tracks. Threw himself at another block five minutes later to deny a pass into the Stags box. Will be pleased with the clean sheet after urging Mansfield to tighten up their defence recently. Photo: UGC
3. Frazer Blake-Tracy
Put in some good defensive moves to shut down Macclesfield attack, including a big header on 13 minutes to deny the visitors a chance to get through on goal. Used his strength well to wrestle off his man and overall looked sharp to the Macclesfield threat. Photo: UGC
4. Jordan Bowery
Looked a bit uncertain in the opening minutes but settled into the game. Was caught out later for a Macclesfield chance at the end of the first half but Roberts was on hand to save. He did well to mop up a loose ball in the second half after Blake-Tracy missed an attempt to intercept. Capped off his performance with a delightful goal in stoppage time to stick a ribbon on the win. Photo: UGC