Boss Nigel Clough delighted with first taste of Mansfield Town’s support

With fans locked out for over a season due to Covid, this was the first taste the Stags boss had had of the club's support since he took over in February.

A similar number are now expected tonight at Matlock Town.

“It was great. I didn't realise we'd take that many on Tuesday,” he beamed.

“I got there an hour before kick off and all I saw was Mansfield fans streaming in.

“It wasn't exactly five minutes away and it was brilliant to see them all.

“When you haven't seen your team for 18 months it's exciting for them as well.

“It was just lovely to see a crowd in, having a beer and enjoying the evening.”

Clough now can't wait to see and hear the atmosphere in the first home game with Bristol Rovers next month.

“It is a big first game for us and I think they will bring a few, depending on if there are any restrictions which I don't think we've had confirmed as yet,” he said.

“It's one to look forward to. But the friendlies we've got will enable supporters to see us three or four times before Bristol Rovers.”