New resilience has Mansfield Town in better shape ahead of Forest Green Rovers clash - Ollie Clarke
Ollie Clarke is convinced Mansfield Town are in better shape as they prepare to face highflying Forest Green Rovers.
The Stags head to the New Lawn today looking for their first victory of the League Two season (KO 3pm).
The contest will also be Nigel Clough's first league fixture in charge of the club.
Skipper Clarke believes that there's a new-found resilience in the Stags side as they make the journey on the back of two wins, unbeaten in four contests.
"It's always a tough place to go. I think they'll probably be a possession-based side, they'll get it down and play," he said.
"A lot of teams have been like that this season, but we're a lot more organised at the moment and conceding a lot less chances.
"So let's hope we can go out there and give them a game."
Bristol-born Clarke grew up close to the west country club, and has enjoyed battles against them during his time with former club Bristol Rovers.
"The first time I came against them was when we were down to the Conference," he added.
"It was a local game and a derby. A lot of our fans went and it was a good atmosphere.
"They were a good side then and they've gone up since then. It'll be an interesting game and we'll be looking forward to it."
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