It was a special occasion for Nigel Clough, who has now equalled club legend Ian Greaves’ record for most league games in charge of Mansfield Town.
The night was marked with another unbeaten result at home but Stags will certainly be disappointed they couldn’t find a way to beat a nine-man Oxford United.
The U’s ranks were depleted heavily in the second when both Peter Kioso and Gatlin O’Donkor were shown red cards. Stags piled on the pressure but couldn’t find a way through despite their player advantage.
Michael Smith got himself on the scoresheet with a late goal to cancel out Luka Lynch’s impressive strike in the first half, but Stags couldn’t make Oxford pay with another goal.
Here’s how the players in amber and blue performed on Thursday night at the One Call Stadium.
1. Liam Roberts
Couldn’t do much about the first goal as Luka Lynch curled a lovely strike into the net on 34 minutes. He put in a strong stop in the second half to deny Oxford a clear cut one-on-one chance to double their lead, though. Photo: UGC
2. Elliott Hewitt
Looked strong and sharp in defence for the majority of his game, put in a great tackle on 24 minutes to stop a good Oxford break. Used his speed to chase down balls and did well to nick the ball from attackers' feet to clear the threat. Put in a good clearance in the box during a promising attack before the hour mark. Photo: UGC
3. Deji Oshilaja
Rock solid at the back despite initial doubts he would even play. Used his strength to hold off Oxford and did well especially to contain Mark Harris. Was strong under pressure and deserved his Player of the Match award for his defensive presence. Photo: UGC
4. Ryan Sweeney
Played out a solid shift in defence as he was quick to clear danger and put in a number of no-nonsense defensive actions, including big clearances under pressure. Used his stature and physical presence well to his advantage, as he typically does. Photo: UGC