The first-half dismissal of midfielder Jamie McGuire for two yellow cards in three minutes cost toothless Mansfield dear to leave them without a win in eight matches.

In-form Shrewsbury, led by former Stags’ star Liam Lawrence, scored twice in the second-half to clinch their sixth successive victory.

Afterwards under-fire Mansfield boss Paul Cox questioned McGuire’s first yellow card, but the red card changed the match.

Bobby Grant scored a thunderbolt to open the scoring in the 59th minute and James Collins secured the three points from close range 15 minutes from time.

Ryan Tafazolli returned from injury to star in the defence and keeper Sascha Studer pulled off several fine saves for the Stags.