Stevenage Borough

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Mansfield 2-1 Stevenage

Stevenage Borough were reduced to ten men and failed to overcome Mansfield Town, but still managed to sneak into the play-off places.

Kettering's 1-0 win over Kidderminster meant that Boro secured fifth spot and they will take on Cambridge in the two-legged semi-final.

The first half saw no clear-cut chances at goal, but witnessed the departure of Stevenage winger Mitchell Cole, who was red carded after kicking out at Scott Garner.

It was the defender who would open the scoring in the 71st minute, with a robust effort from 25-yards out that flew into the top-left hand corner.

However, despite their numerical disadvantage, the visitors attacked at every opportunity and were rewarded when Scott Laird tucked a loose ball inside the right-hand post with a neat finish.

Just when it seemed the game was heading for a draw, Aaron O'Connor did well to cut in from the left and unleash a curling effort inside the far post.

The result meant the Stags finished the season unbeaten at home under David Holdsworth in 2009.

Mansfield bookings: Clare, Garner.

Stevenage bookings: Bostwick

Stevenage sent off: Cole

Att: 3,614.

Ref: R West .