Stags manager Paul Cox feels the excitement as Macclesfield win puts Mansfield a step closer to BSBP title

Cox has been trying hard to keep a lid on his side’s current exploits and keep them grounded and focused.

But they are now two points clear at the top with three games left and if Kidderminster, who only have two games to go, fail to beat Wrexham on Saturday night after Stags have beaten Braintree Town, the title will be Mansfield’s with two games to spare.

“You have to play with a few nerves, but you have to be excited as, if you can’t be excited where we are at the minute, you shouldn’t be in the game,” smiled Cox.

“That is the exciting part for me, putting a smile on people’s faces and making people believe and sit up and take notice.

“But nothing has been won yet. We must stay focused and concentrate. These lads are working hard for the club and the supporters.

“We are not champions yet and there is no razzmatazz. We have three big games left and I want to win all three.

“We will keep ourselves level and, once the season has finished, we will see where we are.

“People talk about stress and pressure. But if we are not enjoying this right now we don’t deserve to be in the business. This game can so easily turn on you, you have to enjoy the highs.”

Mansfield never looked in any great difficulties tonight against a Macclesfield side who have already missed out on the play-offs in their first season since relegation.

Said Cox: “That was a totally professional performance and a good result for us. We are not singing from the rooftops yet. I am happy we worked hard and beat a good side.

“Macclesfield had some good possession and some very good players who can hurt you. We went in with a game plan, got among them and made it hard for them when we didn’t have the ball.

“The boys have so much energy and enthusiasm at the moment. Their desire to win the ball back tonight was unbelievable. They are so hungry right now.”

The only way is Essex now for Mansfield fans as an army of Mansfield supporters will head to Braintree on Saturday hoping to see their side put one hand on the trophy and then fill local bars afterwards watching TV coverage of Wrexham v Kidderminster and becoming honorary Welshmen for the evening.

“We can only try to beat what is put in front of us and it will be a very difficult game as Braintree have had a very good season,” concluded Cox.