Grays Athletic

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Grays Athletic 2-1 Mansfield

Grays Athletic boosted their chances of beating the drop with a narrow victory over mid-table Mansfield at the New Recreation Ground on Saturday afternoon.

In fact, it took two late goals from the hosts to secure all three points after Mansfield had claimed the lead in the 73rd minute.

The first half was evenly contested with both sides creating a number of chances to break the deadlock.

Mansfield came close to claiming the lead on the half-hour mark but Mark Stallard's low, well-struck shot was turned around the post by Grays goalkeeper Rob Beckwith.

However, neither of the sides were able to take a firm grip of proceedings and the referee blew the whistle for half time with the scores still level.

The Blues started the second period brightly and almost claimed the lead in the 48th minute but Alan Marriott pulled off a good save from Andy Pugh's close-range header.

The opening goal finally arrived in the 73rd minute when substitute striker Daryl Clare tapped home Louis Briscoe's driven cross from close range.

The Stags looked good value for their lead but were guilty of switching off at the other end as the hosts drew level with eight minutes left on the clock.

George Beavan whipped in a cross from the left wing and substitute Jamie Slabber was on hand to head the ball into the net from just five yards out.

But the Blues weren't done yet and claimed the lead in the fourth minute of injury time when Slabber turned provider and picked out Pugh in the box and the on-loan striker met the cross with a flicked header which evaded the reach of Alan Marriott.

Grays bookings: Elliott, Thurgood.

Mansfield bookings: None.

Ref: David Coote.

Att: 710.