RYAN Bowman’s “courage” was heralded by York City manager Nigel Worthington after he ended a nine-game run without a goal from the penalty spot at Mansfield Town.

The 22-year-old striker’s 32nd minute spot kick proved the only goal of the Sky Bet League Two game as the Minstermen racked up a third consecutive win despite sub Wes Fletcher seeing a second penalty saved in stoppage time.

Bowman’s match-winning night will have also proven a timely fillip after he shot wide of an open goal at AFC Wimbledon on Saturday.

The City chief said: “It took courage for Bowey to take the penalty and he slotted it away well, so that’s all credit to him.

“It gave him a goal and that will give him some confidence, not that I thought he was short of that anyway.”

Bowman converted from 12 yards after Josh Carson tumbled over a John Dempster challenge with referee Darren Drysdale’s decision incensing the home crowd and players, who accused the City winger of simulation.

But the Minstermen chief preferred to concentrate on Carson’s positive charge into the box that led to the game’s pivotal moment.

“With energy and guile, you can go a long way and Josh gives us that week in, week out,” Worthington pointed out. “He helps take the team up the pitch.”

The City boss went on to hail another excellent rearguard battle from his players, adding: “I am delighted with the three points. We dealt with their long balls and, if you compete with Mansfield, then you have a chance of winning.

“We stood up to them as a team and as individuals and got our just rewards although it was disappointing that Wes couldn’t kill the game off with a second penalty.”

Seventh-placed Southend drew 2-2 at Scunthorpe, meaning City are now only two points off the play-offs.