AFC Mansfield boost promotion hopes with win over Pickering Town

The Bulls suffered a setback at The Forest Town Arena when Ryan Blott’s 20th minute free-kick curled into the top corner.

Connor Smythe then levelled up proceedings two minutes before half-time after some relentless pressure from the home side with a superb half-volley.

Funk’s side continued their onslaught of the Pickering defence in the second-half - with chances for Dear, Ghaichem and Buxton going begging.

AFC’s talisman, Oliver Fearon, then turned the game on its head with a clever header on 73 minutes to give his side the lead.

“We always knew it was going to be difficult because the league table never lies, but I think on the balance of play a victory is fair,” said Funk.

“You look to the Premier League and some of the managers ought to come to AFC Mansfield. Our lads are hugely professional and with just five massive games to go, hopefully we can get over the finishing line.

With only five games left for AFC, five wins would guarantee promotion at the very least.