Stags striker Sam Clucas sets 15-goal target after netting again in Newport draw

Clucas arrived at Mansfield as a winger but has enjoyed life up front in recent games.

“Playing up front is nothing new for me and I did play there when I was young,” he said. “I enjoy it up there and I know players like Matt Rhead or Calvin Andrew are going to win the majority of their headers for me.

“I scored 10 goals for Hereford last season and I want to beat that, so playing up front I want to score 15 at least.”

Clucas might have scored at least another, only to see keeper Lenny Pidgeley make a superb save.

“I was disappointed in myself,” he said. “I was angry at half-time as I want to score as many as I can.

“I was over the moon to get one, but it’s a team game and we were disappointed not to come away with all three points in the end.

“The boys were disappointed with all the chances we created and Alan Marriott had nothing to do. We just need to be more ruthless in front of goal.

“But we did show great character to come from 1-0 down. We are on a good run now and we have a solid base to build on.
The game finished with 10 men apiece after Lee Minshull’s 75th minute straight red card for an elbow on Martin Riley was followed five minutes later by a tame second yellow for Matt Rhead for a late tackle.

“Newport’s was a definite red card. ‘Riles’ looks like he’s giving birth on his head – he’s got a big bump there.

“I think the referee then wanted to even it up with the crowd on his back. As soon as Rheady dived in it gave him the perfect opportunity.