Luton 1-0 Mansfield: Home delight for Hatters

Luton earned their first home win of the League Two season as Craig Mackail-Smith's penalty just before the hour was enough to beat Mansfield.

It was the striker himself who won the spot-kick when he latched on to Paddy McCourt's wonderful through ball and was hauled down by last man Ryan Tafazolli, who was fortunate to stay on the field with just a booking. Mackail-Smith made no mistake from 12 yards, confidently hammering in the penalty.

In the first half, Luton midfielder Jonathan Smith's low shot was well saved by Brian Jensen while Stags striker Matt Green went close but was denied by the legs of Mark Tyler.

The Hatters then had a stunning opener chalked off as Mackail-Smith's magnificent overhead volley was disallowed by a linesman's flag.

In the second period, Mansfield went close early on when Craig Westcarr escaped on the right and saw his low drive saved by Tyler at the second attempt.

The deadlock was broken in the 59th minute and Mackail-Smith could have added to Luton's advantage, with Luke Wilkinson and Cameron McGeehan also going close.

Mansfield came on strongly in the latter stages as Jack Thomas twice tested Tyler from distance while the keeper also made a brave stop from Green as his side clung on for victory.