FC Boro

Next up for Boro is a trip to Field Mill and Mansfield Town. Graham Westley’s side are 3 matches unbeaten since the 2-1 defeat at the Kassam Stadium against leaders Oxford United on the 22nd August. Tomorrow’s game will be a big test for the team. Down the years, Stevenage never seem to play well or get results at ‘big’ grounds and Mansfield will be no different. Last season saw Boro beat the Stags 3-2 at Broadhall Way, but lose 2-1 away on the last day of the season.

Westley has Andy Drury, David Bridges and Darren Murphy all struggling for fitness, while long term absentee Lawrie Wilson definately misses out. Peter Vincenti is suspended. GW must also decide whether to stick with the 4-3-3 formation used successfully in midweek against Eastbourne or deploy the usual 4-4-2 and bring back either Murphy or Bridges, if fit. I would be tempted to stick with the 4-3-3, but maybe swap Long or Byrom for Murphy who can help with the defensive side. Eddie Odhiambo’s recent performances could also sway the managers mind.

“It’s never going to be an easy place to go, they have a tremendous home record and it is a great opportunity for us to establish ourselves at the top end of the league. We’re in good form in terms of our defence at the moment. The back-line is working hard and we’ve talked about the team working hard to keep clean sheets.” Westley on playing Mansfield

The defence has been impressive in recent weeks, but to be honest the problems haven’t been at the back. I think with Roberts and Ashton we are strong in that area and together with Ronnie Henry and Scott Laird, we have got a very consistent unit in place now. Another plus side is that Michael Bostwick or Mark Albrighton can come in at any time and continue the good work of the current defence.

Mansfield are going through a bit of a tough period after a good start to the campaign. Having won 5 out of their first 6 games, the Stags have gone 3 games without a win including Tuesday night’s 3-1 defeat away to Kidderminster.

“We don’t need to change. You stick to your beliefs and you keep to your discipline and hopefully things can turn around very quickly.” Holdsworth on how to stop the rot

Holdsworth has signed Levi Porter from Leicester on loan to try and help the team, but the Mansfield boss will be missing prolific striker Daryl Clare. Defenders Paul Heckingbottom and Craig Armstrong could return. Ex Boro ‘favourite’ Gary Mills is in line to face his former club after returning in the midweek loss what a surprise against Kidderminster.

It will not be an easy game and I just think with Boro’s record against big, ex league teams, a draw would be a good result. However, Mansfield have an impressive home record and will be up for the game after a recent dip in form. Boro will need to continue their recent improvement if they are to get anything from Field Mill.

Stevenage Squad

Ashley Bayes, Chris Day, Scott Laird, Ronnie Henry, Jon Ashton, Mark Roberts, Mark Albrighton, Eddie Odhiambo, Michael Bostwick, Stacy Long, David Bridges, Darren Murphy, Andy Drury, Joel Byrom, Mitchell Cole, Yemi Odubade, Lee Boylan, Charlie Griffin, Chris Beardsley

Prediction: Mansfield 2-1 Boro