The Bulls will look to kick off the new year with three points, as Maltby Main make the journey to the Forest Town Arena.
Previous meeting
These two outfits are well acquainted with one another, having shared the same division since the 2016/17 NCEL campaign.
But last time out it was tomorrow's visitors who celebrated victory, and in heartbreaking fashion for the Bulls. Maltby took the lead in the 47th minute through Jamie Austin, before a late penalty from Luke Walker made the game seem as if the spoils were to be shared. But there would be one last twist, as Bradley Morton netted in the dying embers of the game, granting Maltby Main all three points at Muglet Lane.
Mansfield's last victory over Maltby Main came in the 2019/20 season, in League Cup action. The match actually finished 2-2 thanks to goals from Bulls players Walker and Brandon Webster, before Mansfield won the game on penalties.
Opposition insider
Name: Maltby Main Football Club
Manager: Louis Axcell
Founded: 1916
Nickname: The Miners
Stadium: Muglet Lane, Maltby, Rotherham, S66 7JQ (2000, 150 seated)
Ticketing and admission
Adults: £6.00
Concessions: £5.00
Under-16's: Free with a paying adult
Form guide
The Bulls come into this match in high spirits, with Phil Buxton's side in a spell of good form. Following a disappointing showing against Eccleshill United at the start of December, Mansfield have got their heads together and now look promising, with a victory over Athersley Recreation before a match with Penistone Church was abandoned at 81 minutes, with the Bulls in control and the scores level.
Last time out for Mansfield it was a special occasion, as local rivals Sherwood Colliery came to town. Finding themselves 2-0 down and heading into the final 20 minutes, two excellent goals from Alfie Dodsworth and Lynton Karkach saw Buxton's side nick a passionate draw at the Forest Town Arena.
The Miners however currently find themselves in 12th position and in some mixed form. A penalty from Johnathon Williams saw Maltby Main claim a victory over Athersley last time out, but prior to that was a heavy 6-1 defeat at the hands of Eccleshill.
With three victories in their last nine, Maltby have had a break since their last result, with their previous match coming on the 18th of December.
Bucko's thoughts
Phil Buxton: "It's the same thing as I keep saying, and I'll say it in every interview and to be honest the players are probably sick of me saying it in the dressing room, but it's all about mentality and work rate.
"You've got to put it in or you'll get nothing out of the games, especially in this league. So we continue to work hard, we continue to be as aggressive and committed and motivated as we can and we try to get three points again."
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