Holdsworth was named Stags boss in late December

Mansfield Town boss David Holdsworth was stunned by referee Mark Brown's failure to award his side an injury-time penalty against Kettering.

The Stags earned a point thanks to a resolute display in Tuesday's 0-0 draw.

But Holdworth felt his side should have had the chance to take all three from the spot after Richard Graham appeared to foul Gary Silk in the box.

"I've seen the replay and it was a 100 per cent penalty - a stonewaller," Holdsworth told BBC Radio Nottingham.

"I can't believe he's not given it.

"The ref asked me to look at the video, I have done so and it's still a penalty."

"The man took the boy's legs away and the penalty should have been given. I'm dismayed.

But Holdsworth said he was thrilled with his side's display against the promotion-chasing Poppies.

"I'm delighted with the way my team have played," he said. "In the second half we were absolutely magnificent.

"They haven't had a shot at goal and this team is challenging for a play-off spot - if not more.

606: DEBATE We should've got the penalty but let's face it Kettering put us under pressure lewisparksandfields

"They are a good organised side but there was only one team that were going to win the game.

"They play direct, for position rather than possession, but we were very solid."

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