Managerless Northampton's survival hopes were dealt another blow as they were comprehensively beaten 4-1 at Mansfield. Will Evans and Lucas Akins each struck twice to send the Stags six games unbeaten and further clear of trouble.
It was a fourth straight defeat for the Cobblers and a seventh loss in eight league games, the heavy margin underlining how far Northampton have fallen as the season reaches its sharp end.
Evans Strikes Early as Chances Pile Up
Will Evans put Mansfield ahead within five minutes. Frazer Blake-Tracy launched a long ball down the centre and Evans held off the challenge of Jon Guthrie just inside the box before stroking home a fine low finish.