DANNY CALLS THE TUNE TO UPSET STAGS

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League Two

BY

AMID the anguish and anger in the home stands at the final whistle came a voice of reason.

It was provided by Colchester boss Danny Cowley, who had spent the game winding up the Mansfield fans with his tactics and touchline histrionics.

Cowley’s struggling side threatened a smash-and-grab raid over the League Two leaders after a dogged display which saw home supporters accuse the visitors of constant time-wasting.

When the former Lincoln, Huddersfield and Portsmouth boss was serenaded by abusive chants from the Mansfield faithful, he sarcastically conducted their song.

But, when the dust settled, Cowley (above) had some telling words for counterpart Nigel Clough and his frustrated followers as the Stags bid to clinch automatic promotion.

Cowley said: “They’re the best team in the division and there’s a lot to respect in Mansfield.

“They have a huge attacking threat and have scored 31 goals in their last 10 games, which is double any other team in the division and a ridiculous amount.

“I have such a lot of respect for Nigel Clough and Mansfield will have their time because they’re going to win the league.”

Cowley’s scheming approach worked a treat as Mansfield struggled to penetrate a resolute Colchester rearguard.

The U’s went in front in the 12th minute when Harry Anderson fired low into the far corner.

Mansfield upped the tempo after the break and were rewarded when Lewis Brunt scrambled home a 63rd-minute equaliser from a corner.

Clough, who is under pressure to take Mansfield up this season, must now prepare his men for the Good Friday’s trip to promotion rivals Wrexham.

The game has taken on huge importance in the race for automatic promotion.

The Stags boss said: “We weren’t quite as fluent as we had been, but every point matters at this time of the year.”