Clements makes instant impact on recall for Stags

Clements had been out of favour, but was recalled due to suspensions.

This fourth win in a row edged Stags to within six points of the play-offs with four games to go to set up an exciting end to the season and Clements said: “It was very difficult in the first half as they came out of the blocks very quickly. But we weathered the storm.

“We thought we had a good chance with the wind behind us in the second half, and as soon as the first goal went in we knew we could score more.

“We do practice set pieces a lot and it was good to see them coming off.

“Rochdale are a difficult team to play against. You can’t really hit the front man all the time so we had to switch it up a bit. We got the ball down and played some good stuff, scoring three goals.

“I don’t think they liked our style of play and they had a good moan. But come here and you are going to get that.

“I came back in to do my job and help the team and did that today so I am happy.”

He added: “We need to keep going to the end of the season and try to win as many games as we can and see how high we can finish in the league.

“We were in a relegation battle for a while so it is nice now to play with no pressure and keep this winning run going.”

Stags boss Paul Cox said; “I am one of Chris’ biggest admirers.

“He is talented on the ball but I want to see him do some of the ugly stuff too. He know what he needs to do to progress not just as this level but at a higher level of football.”