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MANSFIELD TOWN manager Nigel Clough confirmed that the club will petition for their League One match to be REPLAYED following a referee's error.
The Stags suffered a 2-1 defeat against promotion contenders Stockport on Saturday.
Nigel Clough criticized the referees and stated that his Mansfield Town team would pursue a replayCredit: Alamy
Both teams scored an own goal, leaving them level at halftime, which concluded unexpectedly early as the referee signaled the end of the half one minute ahead of schedule.
Stockport’s Jack Diamond then finished off a Ben Osborn cross in the 69th minute to secure all three points for the visitors.
Former star Clough, 59, was visibly upset after the match, condemning what he described as a “grossly incompetent” mistake.
When asked if he felt confused by some of the decisions made during the game, Clough replied: “Yes, definitely.
“We were deprived of a minute of legitimate playing time at the end of the first half, where they made a serious error by blowing the whistle one minute early.
“We will be asking if we can replay the game because anything can occur in a minute.
“Someone could be sent off, or two goals could be scored, so to be denied 60 seconds of legitimate game time is extremely troubling.
“This isn’t a matter of opinion; this is not about whether it was a foul or not, this is a clear issue with timekeeping.”
Clough’s fiery remarks indicate that he has inherited some of his father Brian’s legendary straightforward attitude.
He also mentioned that Stockport’s first goal could have been disallowed due to a foul in the build-up and that his opponents were fortunate to avoid a red card after a cynical foul during a breakaway.
He elaborated on his views regarding the refereeing team's deficiencies in an interview with BBC Radio Nottingham after the match.
When asked if the fans are patient with the club's poor run of results, Clough added: “There has to be, because it’s evident, it’s clear for everyone to see when free kicks aren’t given, like the one that led to the first goal, generally speaking.
“We don’t want anything to go our way; I must emphasize that, we just want the correct decisions. I don’t feel we’re receiving those at the moment.”
Clough’s team is currently engaged in a relegation battle at the bottom of the table.
They are positioned 21st in the league, with five teams within a point of them, while only Port Vale appears likely to be relegated at this stage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Mansfield Town requesting a replay of the game?
Mansfield Town is requesting a replay due to a referee's error that resulted in the first half ending a minute early, depriving the team of legitimate playing time.
What were Nigel Clough's main criticisms of the refereeing during the match?
Clough criticized the refereeing for poor timekeeping, claiming that the team was denied crucial game time, and he also mentioned that Stockport's first goal could have been disallowed due to a foul.
How is Mansfield Town performing in the league?
Mansfield Town is currently struggling in the relegation zone, sitting 21st in the league with five teams close behind them in points.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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