Cobblers boss Keith Curle was a frustrated man as he reflected on Saturday’s 2-1 home defeat to Mansfield, Sam Hoskins' early sending off and the subsequent penalty proving pivotal.
“I thought we started the game well and we were in the ascendancy but some of the decisions we made frustrated me,” he said.
“The initial contact from Sam Hoskins looked outside the box but the referee’s decision is something we have to live with.
“It wasn’t evident from the sidelines that they had an extra man and the application, willingness and desire of the players was a real positive.
“I like the fact we went for it and I was really pleased with the attitude of the players.
“Our decision making could have been better and I was disappointed with their second goal but we don’t feel sorry for ourselves.
“We will miss Sam next week but we have a very strong squad.
“Callum Morton has had a bit of a sore groin this week and it looks like he has tweaked his hamstring but he’s a strong lad and I’m sure he will heal quickly.”