Nigel Clough wants to mark first home game with three points - but Mansfield Town will have to battle for them against Colchester United

Nigel Clough wants to mark his first home game as Mansfield Town boss with three points - but says his side will have to 'battle' to make that happen.

The Stags host Colchester United this evening (KO 7pm) on the back of a three-game winning run, but Clough still expects a tough test against the side currently seventh in League Two.

The U's have only lost twice from their 11 league games, narrow away defeats at Carlisle United (3-2) and Newport County (2-1).

"I think they've got a very strong home record and they're a very good team," Clough said, looking to build upon Saturday's opening league victory, a 2-1 win at Forest Green Rovers.

"They'll be similar to Forest Green in the way they get it down knock it about.

"Like all League Two games we're going to have to battle to get anything at all."

Clough hopes his side will go into the match buoyed by that win at the the New Lawn.

"Seeing the players' faces afterwards, the delight of finally getting the three points and the monkey off their back," he added.

"It was absolutely evident for everybody to see. Hopefully we can take it into the next few games."

Following wins on the road against Sunderland in the FA Cup, Scunthorpe United in the EFL Trophy and Forest Green, Clough hopes that form can now translate to a home contest.

Having watched their last came at One Call Stadium, the 1-1 draw with Walsall, Clough is confident the squad have the ability to perform at home, where their last victory came in a 1-0 victory over Newport County in February.

He added: "I saw the game at home to Walsall where the players were unlucky not to win.

"It'd be nice to get that first home win. I wish there was a crowd there, like everybody in football.

"That would be nice. We always like night games as well under the floodlights. Even with no supporters, I think it's still a better atmosphere."

MORE STAGS: Clough welcomes plans to let fans in

MORE STAGS: Five substitute rule gives us more options – manager

MORE STAGS: The dirtiest teams in League Two