Stags defender Luke Jones savours his winning goal at Tamworth

Jones struck the second half winner, and said: “I have been lucky enough to get a few goals this season, that was my seventh now.

“I was pleased it was the winner, but it was a massive three points for us and that was the most important thing.

“It was a tough game and it’s a horrible place to go.

“I was up there for a set piece and Greeny (Matt Green) did really well to square the ball off to me. I just tried to keep it low and I was thankful I did.”

Jones, like manager Paul Cox, is not getting carried away by title talk.

He said: “All the games will be tough now and the table is tight. So it might be we don’t get to play much football, just grind results out.

“There is still a long way to go with seven games left. If we lose them all we won’t win the league.

“The fans were massive today and they were right behind us from the minute we went out there for the warm-up. They got us through in the end.”

Luton loanee Greg Taylor enjoyed his debut at left back and said: “As soon as I knew Mansfield wanted me I was interested.

“They have been very welcoming lads, very helpful, and the atmosphere and buzz around the place is noticeable straight away. The lads are all very positive and upbeat.

“You are nervous coming into a winning side, not wanting to make a mistake, but the gaffer just told me to play my game, keep it simple and do the right things.”

Jones, who played alongside him at the back, said: “I though Greg was excellent. It is tough to come in like that, but he is quality and he’s got to be happy with that debut.”