Northampton Town took a significant step towards easing their League One relegation worries with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Mansfield Town.

The decisive moment came in the second half when Cameron McGeehan rose to head home a well-placed corner, securing back-to-back wins for the Cobblers and extending Mansfield’s dismal run to six consecutive defeats across all competitions.

Tom Eaves had an early opportunity to put Northampton ahead, but he squandered his chance after finding space inside the box within the opening seconds.

The Cobblers were handed another golden opportunity in the 20th minute when Sam Hoskins stepped up to take a penalty, only to see his effort saved after Christy Pym brought down Liam Shaw in a reckless challenge.

Northampton started the second half with renewed vigor, and Tariqe Fosu came close with a long-range strike that was deflected wide.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 55th minute when McGeehan met Mitch Pinnock’s pinpoint corner with a powerful header, giving the Cobblers a deserved lead.

The hosts’ best chance to salvage a point came in the dying minutes, but Jordan Willis made a heroic goal-line clearance to deny Rhodes and preserve Northampton’s narrow lead.

The result leaves Mansfield languishing in poor form, while the Cobblers can take confidence from a gritty and well-earned victory.

McGeehan header seals vital win for Northampton

McGeehan header seals vital win for Northampton