City set out on a four-point mission at Mansfield tomorrow.

Stuart McCall wants at least a win and a draw from trips to Field Mill and Chesterfield's Saltergate over the next four days.

The Mansfield clash kicks off a hectic spell of seven league games in four weeks over the holiday period which could shape City's season.

And McCall is banking on a good result tonight to blow away any hangover from the weekend's FA Cup exit to Tranmere.

He said: "I'm not one for setting targets normally but we've got to aim to be unbeaten and come out with at least four points if we can.

"We were all disappointed after Saturday. We had to be at our best to get something from a team from a higher division and we weren't.

"But now we're back to our level and we've got to improve. We've got two difficult away games for different reasons.

"Mansfield are scrapping for everything at the wrong end of the table and Chesterfield, although their home form isn't brilliant, are right up there."

McCall did not have to travel far for his spying mission on the Stags on Sunday. He was at their televised FA Cup clash with Harrogate Railway, close to his home in the town.

Mansfield saw off a potential shock 3-2 and the City boss said: "I thought their attitude was terrific.

"It was a difficult place to go in very tough conditions and they showed a real professionalism to get through that.

"With our game being put back to Wednesday, I think they've had enough time to recuperate. Mentally it could have been tough if they'd got beaten or taken to a replay but they came through it well and will be looking forward to Bradford coming to town.

"But we need to bounce back and it's good to have a game so soon after such a disappointing performance."

Only goal difference keeps Mansfield off the bottom but they have scored 14 goals at home. Michael Boulding is among the division's hottest marksmen with 13, including two at Harrogate.

McCall added: "Mansfield beat Macclesfield 5-0 in their last home so they've got firepower up front. Michael Boulding is in the ranks; his brother Rory looks a good player as well and Simon Brown got a hat-trick against Macc.

"They are quite a young side and will have the energy and appetite. But as I always say, it's about what we do.

"We've got to be positive and go look for the victory."

Barry Conlon makes a quick return to Field Mill after playing 16 games for the Stags last term, netting six times before being released in May.

He said: "I've nothing really to prove there. I was only at Mansfield a very short time and scored a few goals."

Mansfield, who will be playing their first home game for over a month, have been warned to expect a strong response from City after the Tranmere drubbing.

Boss Billy Dearden said: "I saw Bradford in their game on Saturday and they looked as though they were struggling, much like we were earlier in the season.

"Once they went a goal down their confidence went, but I'm sure they will be a different kettle of fish away from home.

"Our home form has been very good and if we can get the win against them it would draw us closer to them and close the gap.

"I said to the lads before the Harrogate Railway game we can either have a good week or a horrible one.

"We have had the cup game and got our first away win and now we have two home games to come in the next few days where we will look to build on it."

Mansfield are likely to name an unchanged team from the cup tie after central midfielder Stephen Dawson recovered from his slight thigh injury. But Jonathan D'Laryea (calf) and Nathan Arnold (ankle) are both out.

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