Notts County came from a goal down to record a superb 4-1 win over Crewe Alexandra in Saturday's League Two encounter at a packed Meadow Lane.

In front of a bumper crowd of more than 17,000 thanks to Alan Hardy's "2 for Crewe" offer, the Magpies fell behind to Shaun Miller's goal on the rebound.

However, Notts were level seven minutes later when Noor Husin rifled home a stunning Roy of the Rovers-esque drive from all of 25 yards out.

Elliott Hewitt then put the hosts ahead just before half time before adding a second on the hour in what was a man-of-the-match performance from the versatile player.

With full-time approaching, Derby County loanee Mason Bennett scored on his debut to cap off a memorable win for the Magpies.

Pride of Nottingham was at Meadow Lane for the occasion and interviewed a number of fans about several key topics - find out what the Black & White Army had to say in this week's Meet the Fans!

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Notts County came from a goal down to record a superb 4-1 win over Crewe Alexandra in Saturday's League Two encounter at a packed Meadow Lane.

In front of a bumper crowd of more than 17,000 thanks to Alan Hardy's "2 for Crewe" offer, the Magpies fell behind to Shaun Miller's goal on the rebound.

However, Notts were level seven minutes later when Noor Husin rifled home in a stunning drive from all of 25 yards out.

Elliott Hewitt put the hosts ahead just before half time before adding a second on the hour, before Derby County loanee Mason Bennett scored on his debut to cap off a memorable win.

Pride of Nottingham has compiled some of the key post-match reaction from Notts boss Kevin Nolan, the players, and the fans.

Kevin Nolan

"I enjoyed it. I thought the lads were fantastic and got what they deserved. It could have been more than four - some of the chances we created and the play at times was magnificent.

"I was a bit upset with the way we conceded the goal, and at that point I was thinking 'Typical us!' because we had started well, but that already seems like a distant memory.

"The goals showed what the team possesses. There was individual brilliance as well as team goals. At times it was a real joy to watch."

Mason Bennett

“I was delighted to get underway and it was a great result.

“The lads dug in after going one down early on and showed great character to react. It was nice to get the three points on the board.

“It was a brilliant atmosphere and the chairman has done brilliantly to knock the price of the tickets down.

“It was a great turnout and the lads enjoyed it. They got the result the fans deserved.

“I was delighted to get on with 30 minutes to go and I got my goal so I was very pleased.”

Players on social media

The Black and White Army

Northants Pie:

Liampie:

Good all round performance today, i was well impressed. The second half saw notts really get going and we played some good stuff. i think the formation really allowed us to play comfortably, i know we started awfully but we grew in confidence after equalising.

Anti-Red:

First complete team performance that I have seen for a very long time. The start had me dreading what might become but I thought Notts responded how they should and as a result quickly took back control of the game.

Liampie:

i thought the midfield just over ran crewe yesterday, it was good to see hewitt, husin and grant all linking up well.

Chris:

The early goal for Crewe seemed to help us more than it did them.

It was very poor defending by Duffy, I had no idea what he was thinking and it's those decisions by him which usually cost us the most. He managed to settle down, yet I do feel his shaky start did impact us for a bit.

The midfield ran the show, they urged forward and created chances after chance.

It wasn't a case yesterday of 'will we score' it was 'when will we score'. Going into the lead before half time was massive too, it meant we could come out and play our usual passing game. Second half we looked class, the link-up play especially! The addition of Bennett had me thinking we could score even more, as Alessandra seemed to be left unmarked after and he really did deserve a goal.

That said, fans now know why he's been pushed onto the wing after the amount of chances he had to score.

I'm very impressed!

Upthepies:

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Notts County put in one of their best performances of the season in front of the biggest Meadow Lane crowd of the 21st century in Saturday's 4-1 win over Crewe Alexandra.

The Magpies endured a wobbly start as Shaun Miller drilled home on the rebound after just eight minutes for the breakthrough.

However, Noor Husin struck back on the quarter-hour mark with a ferocious long-range effort before Elliott Hewitt put the hosts ahead just before half time.

Hewitt then got his second of the game and County's third by finishing off a great team move on the hour mark and Derby County loanee Mason Bennett added the cherry on top late on.

Notts vlogger and Pride of Nottingham contributor ARLukomski discussed the fixture ahead of kickoff, gave his thoughts as the game went on, and talked about the performance and result after the final whistle.

Follow ARLukomski on his YouTube channel by clicking here.

Share your thoughts about this vlog on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans.

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Notts County put in one of their best performances of the season in front of the biggest Meadow Lane crowd of the 21st century in Saturday's 4-1 win over Crewe Alexandra.

The Magpies endured a wobbly start as Shaun Miller drilled home on the rebound after just eight minutes for the breakthrough.

However, Noor Husin struck back on the quarter-hour mark with a ferocious long-range effort before Elliott Hewitt put the hosts ahead just before half time.

Hewitt then got his second of the game and County's third by finishing off a great team move on the hour mark and putting the Pies out of reach.

Derby County loanee Mason Bennett then added the cherry on top late on with his debut Notts goal to wrap up a wonderful afternoon for the Black and White Army.

Pride of Nottingham was at the Lane for the occasion and took photos of fans - check our gallery to see if you're in this week's Faces of PON!

Share your thoughts about this week's Faces of PON on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans.

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Notts County came from a goal down to record a superb 4-1 win over Crewe Alexandra in Saturday's League Two encounter at a packed Meadow Lane.

In front of a bumper crowd of more than 17,000 thanks to Alan Hardy's "2 for Crewe" offer, the Magpies fell behind to Shaun Miller's goal on the rebound.

However, Notts were level seven minutes later when Noor Husin rifled home in a stunning drive from all of 25 yards out.

Elliott Hewitt put the hosts ahead just before half time before adding a second on the hour, before Derby County loanee Mason Bennett scored on his debut to cap off a memorable win.

How did the game pan out from a tactical perspective? Pride of Nottingham's Chris takes a look with this weekend's Tactical Talk.

Was the result fair?

As I made my way to Meadow Lane yesterday, each time I encountered a fan that I know, they spoke about how confident they were about Notts hammering Crewe.

I really didn’t think this would be the case, yet on the pitch, Crewe’s opener of the game lifted Notts and it urged them on to better themselves.

The win was incredible for such a huge attendance and it was pleasing to see fans re-finding the buzz of winning ways.

We should have scored more when you think about it, so nobody can argue it wasn’t deserved.

How did Notts play?

The first 10 minutes we started very shaky, the Crewe goal had me thinking ‘here we go’ but I was proud of how Notts responded.

Our midfield took much of that burden and drove towards Crewe with sheer determination! It wasn’t a case of ‘will we score’ but ‘when’.

Ending the first half, Notts had played some very entertaining stuff at times and the 2-1 lead was vital.

It was what I would describe as a complete performance from the back to the front, as Collin looked great in goal and our attacking play looked lethal – we really did play with a lot of confidence.  

How did Crewe play?

Exactly as I expected and had mentioned within my scouting report.

They used their physical side to attempt to intimidate Notts, whilst using scrappy play to get the edge over us at the beginning.

On the ball they played some good football and always seemed capable of giving us a game. However, at the back they were woeful and failed to cope with our play.

Overall, it wasn’t a ‘bad’ performance on their part – Notts were simply too good and refused to bow down to them, yet they played quite well in spells.

Did our tactics work out?

Absolutely! I would have liked to see Mason Bennett start. However, we got a glimpse of what he could do against a defence, which was as if a rabbit was caught in the headlights.

The formation, just common sense at this stage and it gives us much more time on the ball in midfield – it allows our players to get a good understand of how to play.

We attacked understanding what Crewe had about them and balanced our play according to that. Tactically Kevin Nolan was spot on and he adjusted well even when the game was completely in our hands.

How did the referee perform?

He seemed to like the attendance more than perhaps the Notts board, I felt some of his decisions were quite poor and at times just baffling – yet he wasn’t noticeable once we had control of the game.

It could have easily been different on another day, yet a focused Notts squad took the niggles from his performance away.

Who do we play next?

Next up Barnet – Notts will have to put on a repeat performance as the last two games have really impressed us fans and it will be for The Bees’ to attempt to derail the progress that had been made on the pitch.

How should we play them?

We should approach them with the same belief and, focus as we did against Crewe.

When Notts click on the field, there’s no denying how good or entertaining we can be and this match will be another perfect opportunity to build on from that had gone missing in the two home league defeats.

It’s vital that we go into the game fully focused, so no blunders to open with – as the Duffy mistake against Crewe could have changed the game completely.

Barnet will see our fixture against them as a way to prove themselves and quite possibly as a way to gain further momentum as they attempt to gain safety within League Two.

For this reason Notts will have to focus on playing a solid game at the back, and build on any chances when going forward – allow the midfield to control the game and carve open those chances we do have the ability to create.

I’d welcome seeing Mason Bennett start, we’ll know more about what type of options he will give us and I think Jon Stead has earned a break.

Ameobi and Bennett would be the right options for me in attack against Barnet. As the game slows down, it will naturally open up and this is when we can reintroduce players such as Stead.

It will be about remaining focus, and hopefully a good performance against Swansea City on Tuesday night might encourage our lads further – yet if we do bow out gracefully from the FA Cup, let’s not be downhearted.

We have a job to finish in League Two and, I have complete faith that we do have the ability to complete it.

Crewe fan views

Another week, another four goals conceded and another step towards non-league football. Is anything going to change? M x

— Baa Baa Pink Sheep (@BBPSBook) February 4, 2018

Don’t care if it was only £2 those 1,500 should be refunded. 11 Conceded in the last 3 games all of which we were winning in. Weak mindset, deserve relegation #crewealex

— CreweAlex???? (@CreweAlex1877) February 3, 2018

12 away defeats most in the league ironic thing is we have been in winning position in 8 of them #Thatswhywearegoingdown

— Andrew Rogers (@AP_R07) February 3, 2018

The club is a bigger laughing stock that it was under Davis. Time to go Dave you have had enough chances.

— Jan ???????? (@1Brackendale) February 3, 2018

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Notts County put in one of their best performances of the season in front of the biggest Meadow Lane crowd of the 21st century in Saturday's 4-1 win over Crewe Alexandra.

The Magpies endured a wobbly start as Shaun Miller drilled home on the rebound after just eight minutes for the breakthrough.

However, Noor Husin struck back on the quarter-hour mark with a ferocious long-range effort before Elliott Hewitt put the hosts ahead just before half time.

Hewitt then got his second of the game and County's third by finishing off a great team move on the hour mark and Derby County loanee Mason Bennett added the cherry on top late on.

Relive the key moments of the superb win with the official Notts match highlights, which we've shared on Pride of Nottingham for you.

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January brought Notts County joy in the FA Cup but disappointment in League Two, but February is a fresh month and we're all hoping the Magpies can kick on.

First up this month is Crewe Alexandra, who come to Meadow Lane and are likely to play before one of the largest crowds seen at the ground for years.

How have the Railwaymen done in recent weeks? Who are their danger men? Pride of Nottingham's Scouting Report sheds more light on these questions and more.

Head to head

Notts and Crewe have played 44 times in competitive games, and we have the upper hand with 21 wins to 14 defeats, while 9 draws have taken place.

The Magpies are unbeaten in their last six home league games against Crewe (three wins and three draws), finding the net at least once in all six matches (12 goals).

However, the Alex are unbeaten in their last three League Two clashes against the Magpies (one win and two draws).

Our last meeting came in October last year at Gresty Road, a 2-0 defeat for us.

Run-down of their last six features

Tuesday 26th December – Chesterfield 0 Crewe Alexandra 2

Saturday 30th December – Cambridge United 3 Crewe Alexandra 1

Monday 1st January – Crewe Alexandra 2 Grimsby Town 0

Saturday 13th January – Carlisle United 1 Crewe Alexandra 0

Saturday 20th January – Crewe Alexandra 2 Wycombe Wanderers 3

Saturday 27th January – Swindon Town 4 Crewe Alexandra 3

The Players – Fact Sheet

Highest Goal Scorers; Chris Porter 12, Chris Dagnall 7, Jordan Bowery 5 and Callum Ainley 5.

Persistent Foulers; Perry NG 8 yellow cards and 1 red card, Michael Raynes 7 yellow cards and 1 red card, Brad Walker 7 yellow cards and Eddie Nolan 5 yellow cards.

The Key Players

Crewe Alexandra have some very capable players within in midfield, none more so than Brad Walker and Tom Lowery, two very creative players.

One is your typical 'grab the game by the scruff off the neck' player, whilst the other works very hard to create decent chances.

Up top Chris Porter and Chris Dagnall are both strikers easily able to unlock their opposition and, despite the Alex struggling, they've done well to get their team goals.

Also up front, Jordan Bowery is a decent player at League Two level – he possesses something completely different from the other two strikers and his pace can be a tricky factor.

Style of Play, Strengths, and Weaknesses

Crewe Alexandra are a decent League Two outfit, they are struggling financially and, as a result have been reduced to quite a small squad.

They possess a very capable midfield and strikeforce, which I am surprised they have been able to retain during this January transfer window.

Crewe’s main issues are their defence and lack of confidence within the camp.

On the field, they try to play football in the right way. They’re a good passing side that like to move the ball around promptly.

In possession of the ball they can use it well and, can punish teams by clever play – they try to hit teams creatively and with pace.

The major downfall for the Alex is their inability to defend well, individual errors often leads to scrappy goals and poor marking can often be very costly too.

Also, there’s a real lack of discipline across their team and this can easily take points from what can be a very tough side – they have fighting spirit which often sees them not give up but their poor play often is more than enough to change the final outcome.

Notts will have to be mindful about allowing any incidents to become out of control, whilst ensuring players are protected when on the ball.

Passing wise, it just has to be direct and creative. Husin and Noble have a real chance of unlocking for our forwards and Stead, Ameobi, Bennett and even Forte could find this useful (if the latter plays).

The pace will certainly be useful to have up top, as will someone of Ameobi’s mould and print.

I expect Crewe to try and keep it scrappy at the back, whilst keeping the ball down within midfield – almost how Notts tend to play themselves.

Winning the ball back will be key, but making use of it without forcing play would be highly beneficial.

The Magpies just have to be calm on the ball, mindful and creative.

This is a very good chance to ensure we crack on, however we can’t expect to go into the game at Meadow Lane and expect to steamroll the opposition.

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Notts County have announced the loan signing of Derby County forward Mason Bennett until the end of the season.

The 21-year-old, who made his first-team debut for the Rams at the age of 15 to become the club's youngest-ever player, was snapped up late on transfer deadline day.

Here is some information about the player's identity, career, achievements and style of play.

Full name: Mason Kane Bennett

Date of birth: 15 July 1996

Place of birth: Shirebrook

Age: 21

Height: 1.78m (5'10")

Nationality: English, Barbadian

Position: Striker/Secondary Striker, can also play on both wings

Preferred foot: Unknown

Last club: Derby County (parent club)

Came through the ranks at: Derby

Other clubs he has played for: Chesterfield, Bradford City, Burton Albion (loans)

Thoughts on player: "We see Mason as playing in the front three positions, but it would be nice to have a little look at him down the middle for a period of time because I think that is probably what will be his best position." - Gary Rowett, Derby manager

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Hello and welcome to episode 39 of the Pride of Nottingham PONcast, presented as always by your favourite hosts Chris and JJ.

In this week's episode we discuss Notts County's 1-1 draw against Swansea City in the FA Cup fourth round and preview the replay at the Liberty Stadium - can the Magpies pull off a mighty upset against the resurgent Premier League side, which has managed to beat Liverpool and Arsenal in recent weeks?

We also talk about the fifth-round draw, which will pit the winner of the tie against Championship side Sheffield Wednesday at Hillsborough - with the Owls being below Brentford in the league, is it an opportunity ripe for the taking in beating Swansea and potentially overcoming Wednesday to make it into the quarter-finals?

In addition we discuss the Magpies' transfer window business ahead of transfer deadline day and rate whether the club has done well in terms of incomings and outgoings. We touch upon the departure of Ryan Yates and also discuss the addition of midfielders Noor Husin and Matty Virtue.

All this and more in episode 39 of the Pride of Nottingham PONcast!

Remember - you can subscribe to our PONcast! You can do so by using iTunes for IOS devices, downloading any of the main podcast apps from the Google Play Store or even listen to the show using the TuneIn Radio app.

As always, let us know your thoughts on this week’s PONcast on the forum or on the Facebook page, and once again, thank you for joining us! YOU PIES!!

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Notts County have confirmed the acquisition of Brighton & Hove Albion defender Ben Hall on a loan deal until the end of the season.

Here is some information about the player's identity, career, achievements and style of play.

Full name: Ben Hall

Date of birth: 16 January 1997

Place of birth: Enniskillen

Age: 21

Height: 5'10"

Nationality: Northern Irish

Position: Defence - Centre-back

Preferred foot: Unknown

Last club: Brighton & Hove Albion (parent club)

Came through the ranks at: Dungannon Swifts

Other clubs he has played for: Motherwell

Achievements: Brighton Under-23s captain

Thoughts on player: “This is a great opportunity for Ben to gain experience in a first-team environment as Notts County challenge at the top end of the league table. He’s been a regular in the heart of defence so far this season and his form has rightly attracted interest from outside the club. It’s a fresh and exciting challenge for Ben and we wish him the best for the remainder of the season.” - Simon Rusk, Brighton development coach

"Ben is an excellent young prospect. His challenge is not only to progress but to be ready to make that step up into the first-team squad." - Chris Hughton, Brighton manager

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Jon Stead kept up his record of scoring in every round of the FA Cup as his equaliser earned Notts County a deserved replay in a 1-1 draw with Swansea City in the fourth round.

Luciano Narsingh's strike on the stroke of half-time put the Premier League's bottom club ahead at Meadow Lane but the Magpies went up a gear after the restart, with Jorge Grant coming close on three occasions in quick succession.

Stead, who famously put in a superb performance for Bradford City in their fourth-round upset of Chelsea several years ago, then fired home on the hour mark to guarantee a place in the hat for round five and a replay at the Liberty Stadium next month.

Pride of Nottingham has compiled some of the key post-match reaction from Notts boss Kevin Nolan, the players, and the fans.

Kevin Nolan

"I'm absolutely delighted and immensely proud. We got we deserved and made the better chances throughout the game.

"But against a Premier League team they only need half a chance and it's in the back of the net and that showed today.

"We were really good in the first half but all it took was one slip and we were 1-0 down.

"The reaction after the break was fantastic and we had some excellent opportunities both before and after our goal."

"The way the players have performed today is a testament to what they are all about."

Jon Stead

"We matched them and we've got to be immensely proud of ourselves.

"We were a bit cagey in the first half but at the start of the second half we really showed what we are capable of and pushed them all the way.

"You know they are going to have large amounts of possession and keep the ball well so it's about getting in the right areas and limiting their space.

"We had to work hard for it but we gave as good as we got and created some decent chances.

"If we had won the game I don't think you could have argued too much about it but, on reflection, a draw is probably a fair result."

Shola Ameobi

"We got our just rewards for a really tough, battling performance. We're in the draw for the fifth round, and in the FA Cup magical things can happen.

"We know it'll be a tough order at Swansea, but the team spirit in that dressing room right now is fantastic. We'll go there and give it all we've got."

Players on social media

The Black and White Army

Who R Ya? You Pies!: That was class , great atmosphere , great occasion , terrific result, in the draw , get the replay on TV , well done Notts great combative performance had our moments as well , so proud COYP

Chris: No criticism of either us or Swansea, I felt both teams did very well. Second half again for Notts was a delight to watch and, although I think it shown how the formation being 4-4-2 suites us best. I do feel we gave Swansea a good fight and wholeheartedly deserved the draw. Very impressed with our fans and the fact the performance was motivated.

Liampie: I thought we could count ourselves lucky that swansea seemed poor on goal in the first half. we had a few okay chances but never really tested their keeper, i do think we defended well throughout the game. good to get level with them after the lapse in concentration.

Jay Dalton: notts gave 100% shola held the Ball well Collin made some crucial saves and when stead got the leveller the fans errupted l with sheer jubilation brilliant kop atmosphere

Trevor Robinson: Great support from the kop today. I'm in Pavis stand and you lot sounded fantastic. Pat yourselves on the back.

Jimmy Gee: Soft goal just before halftime spoiled good work. Deserved equaliser, Notts had more chances to win it. Well done!

Richard Thompson: Much better 2nd half, sat back a bit at times, we were at our best putting pressure on them, then again why am I moaning? a draw against a team 3 leagues above? great result really

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Notts County have earned a place in the hat for the fifth round of the FA Cup after holding Premier League side Swansea City to a 1-1 draw in Saturday's fourth-round match at Meadow Lane.

The Magpies began brightly but their opponents soon stepped up a gear and had the hosts under the coash before finding the net on the stroke of half time through Luciano Narsingh.

Kevin Nolan's charges were much improved in the second half, however, as Jorge Grant spurned three gilt-edged chances in quick succession.

Eventually, County's pressure was rewarded as veteran striker Jon Stead turned home on the hour to draw the Magpies level and ultimately clinch a replay at the Liberty Stadium.

Pride of Nottingham was at the Lane to watch the action unfold and took plenty of photos of the Notts fans.

Have a look through our gallery in this week's Faces of PON, published on our Facebook page, and don't forget to tag yourself and your loved ones!

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Jon Stead kept up his record of scoring in every round of the FA Cup as his equaliser earned Notts County a deserved replay in a 1-1 draw with Swansea City in the fourth round.

Luciano Narsingh's strike on the stroke of half-time put the Premier League's bottom club ahead at Meadow Lane but the Magpies went up a gear after the restart, with Jorge Grant coming close on three occasions in quick succession.

Stead, who famously put in a superb performance for Bradford City in their fourth-round upset of Chelsea several years ago, then fired home on the hour mark to guarantee a place in the hat for round five and a replay at the Liberty Stadium next month.

How did the game pan out? Pride of Nottingham's Chris takes a look with this weekend's Tactical Talk.

Was the result fair?

Both Notts and Swansea really went head-to-head yesterday.

Swansea obviously looked full of energy and naturally looked very creative, as any Premier League team should.

Notts struggled to match them at times in the first half – however over the course of the 90 minutes, the magpies’ actually improved and grew in confidence.

A draw is very fair, some fans feel we should have won but honestly both teams could have done this.

How did Notts play?

First half we naturally did a lot of chasing, yet there wasn’t much wrong in terms of heart or performance.

Notts just naturally struggled at times due to Swansea making it different through their play.

One note for me is the lack of pressing at times and I feel defensively we should have shaken off the nerves sooner.

In the second half, Notts really took the game to the Swans and the game became very open as a result.

There was a lot of character, passion and desire in this game from a Notts perspective and reverting back to 4-4-2 really showed why we had done well in previous games before the formation switch.

How did Swansea play?

They played well, credit where credit is due.

However, going 1-0 up there was a lot of time-wasting – in fact, I recall times even before they scored but this is quite normal in football.

Swansea looked creative, very direct and they played neat overlays, which put Notts often on the back foot.

The Swans were a joy to watch at times, and I feel if their strike-force had played better – the outcome might have been vastly different but this doesn’t take anything away from their performance as they did well.

Did our tactics work out?

Reverting to 4-4-2 must have taken some swallowing of Nolan’s pride, it was clear that 4-5-1 isn’t a formation which would work for Notts – could you imagine how many limited chances we would have had against Swansea if we hadn’t have reverted?

I felt the line-up was pretty spot on, it was nice to see Terry Hawkridge starting and I felt we had a lot of width about our play – something that has been lacking even before we went to five midfielders in previous League Two games.

It was clear that Kevin Nolan had told the players to go out and enjoy themselves. Notts played organised but almost with a certain level of freedom.

Attacks were carefully played out, although at times passes did stray or certainly became rushed – this for me was down to nerves and, I feel the tactics were spot on.

How did the referee perform?

There were periods of the game that I felt he liked breaking the action up, solely just to sound his whistle but overall by the end of the game I actually felt he did alright.

Second half he noticeably improved, and as a result allowed the game to flow better.

It was nice to see him standing his ground when players attempted to sway his decisions, something which most recent officials haven’t done well but this referee did okay. No real complaints as such from me.

Who do we play next?

Focusing on the FA Cup here, it’s obvious that the fourth round replay will be against Swansea – yet it will be interesting to see who we might possibly get in the 5th round, provided we make it that far.

I actually feel we stand a greater chance of upsetting them away from home.

How should we play them?

I sent out a tweet before the game against Swansea City echoing my thoughts on how Notts should be balanced and, defensively aware.

I felt breaking out on the counter would serve us well, especially if we didn’t commit too many players forward.

This would ring true playing them in our 4th round replay, it’s important that we don’t get a rush of blood and go all attacking on them.

We need to build carefully, pressing them into wider positions as a way to open the game up.

Jorge Grant did really well with taking a lot of the play forward, with the likes of Elliot Hewitt running himself into the ground.

These will be things we must repeat when fancy Swansea next.

I would like to see our two strikers stay further up the field, however if we can find a way to get the best out of Liam Noble – I feel his energy being found could give us two players to unlock any opening which may present themselves.

It’s important we go and, in the process ask questions – ensuring that Swansea City’s defence doesn’t have it easy.

If we pressure them in the right way, I feel a cup shock could very well be on the cards – as winning a team at their home ground often happens against the big boys as it lifts the opposition players.

Swansea City fan views (from The Fans Network)

Londonlisa2001: I thought we were absolutely woeful. We were a little better in the first half than the second, but we didn't give a crap. Not giving a crap and playing at half speed when you saunter out a 2 goal victory is one thing, doing it and not being able to beat a team that together quite possibly gets paid less than Bony is on is a disgrace. I didn't see it as a chance to walk around and build patterns, I saw it as a chance to give it our all (at least until safe), and score some goals in an attempt to create some confidence and put some zip and spark into our lacklustre forward line.

Cockneyswan: After watching that abject performance, I think Carlos message must have been "ok if you can win it without too much effort do it, however if we lose don’t worry, we got bigger fish to fry." Unfortunately Notts co delighted with another pay day.

Jackrabbit: I only saw the second half but it was obvious that County wanted it more. I sincerely hope Bony is unfit and lacking match practice because he was dreadful - slow, ponderous, clumsy and indolent. Both he and Abraham were AWOL in the goal area. A centre forward needs to be pressurising the goalkeeper, be on hand for crosses in front of the goalkeeper and be available to tuck away rebounds - neither of them were ever there when they needed to be. Abraham was our only touch of class at the start of the season. What has happened to him? Ki made mistakes but he looked classy - he passed the ball well and tried to slide balls inside the fullback for Narsingh to run on to. He doesn't deserve the special bile he gets on here. At least he looks like a footballer. Ayew must have been as underwhelmed as we were by the Swans performance because when he came on he decided he would beat County on his own. All in all Swans looked like a team that were saving themselves for a big game on Tuesday night. I thought County were terrific.

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Notts County have earned a place in the hat for the fifth round of the FA Cup after holding Premier League side Swansea City to a 1-1 draw in Saturday's fourth-round match at Meadow Lane.

The Magpies began brightly but their opponents soon stepped up a gear and had the hosts under the coash before finding the net on the stroke of half time through Luciano Narsingh.

Kevin Nolan's charges were much improved in the second half, however, as Jorge Grant spurned three gilt-edged chances in quick succession.

Eventually, County's pressure was rewarded as veteran striker Jon Stead turned home on the hour to draw the Magpies level and ultimately clinch a replay at the Liberty Stadium.

Notts vlogger and Pride of Nottingham contributor ARLukomski discussed the fixture ahead of kickoff, gave his thoughts as the game went on, and talked about the performance and result after the final whistle.

Follow ARLukomski on his YouTube channel by clicking here.

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Hello and welcome to episode 38 of the Pride of Nottingham PONcast, presented as always by the inimitable Chris and JJ.

In this week's episode we discuss Notts County's League Two defeats by Exeter City and Crawley Town, looking at what went wrong and if there is serious cause for concern in terms of our automatic promotion hopes or whether we should just keep calm and carry on.

We also look ahead to the FA Cup fourth-round meeting with Swansea City this weekend and see whether the Magpies have a good chance of progressing, given their upturn in form which included a shock win over Liverpool in the Premier League.

In addition we discuss Ross Fitzsimons' red card in the Crawley game, addressing whether he can be forgiven for his actions or whether he should be taken out of the first team for good, as well as looking at what further reinforcements should be made this month.

All this and more only in episode 38 of the Pride of Nottingham PONcast!

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Notts County have fallen to a second League Two home defeat in a row after Crawley Town won 2-1 at Meadow Lane on Tuesday night.

Jimmy Smith scored in the 25th minute to give the Red Devils the lead but Jon Stead levelled from the penalty spot 13 minutes in the second half.

It looked as though the Magpies would claim a point but late drama saw Matty Virtue sent off before Ross Fitzsimons also saw red - and conceded a penalty - for kicking out at an opposition player.

Josh Payne went on to convert his stoppage-time spot kick for their first ever win at Meadow Lane and leave Notts at risk of slipping out of the automatic promotion places.

How did the Notts boss, players and fans react to the game's events? Here is a round-up of the post-match reaction.

Kevin Nolan on the result

"It's disappointing to lose the game but it's the first time we've lost successive games in the league this season, which shows how far we have come.

"It could have been a different game for us if we had put our chances away in the first 10-15 minutes. Over the last two games I think we have created more chances than I can remember here but not put them away.

"We've been hit with sucker punches and I have told the lads we need to manage the game in both ways and we haven't done that in the last two games as well as we have done in the past.

"To lose a goal from a throw-in, which was so basic from our point of view, is disappointing.

"I'm proud of these lads to be where they are at at this stage of the season. Nobody envisaged it. What I want the players to do is go back to what they were doing and be true to themselves - they'll be ok."

Kevin Nolan on Ross Fitzsimons

"Ross has been fantastic for me since he joined the club but he knows he has done wrong tonight.

"I'm not going to defend or condone what he did but what we will do is rally around him and ensure he learns from this.

"This is his first major run in a league team and he has been doing really well but tonight he has let a silly push rattle him and it has cost him a three-game suspension."

The Black and White Army

Chris: Well, that all went out the window. FA Cup seems a potential downer now, if we win Notts must re-focus! Otherwise the cup could be a distraction to the current mission, we didn't go top by being lucky. So, lets get things back to how they was and sign two players (ST/CB).

Kevin Hopcroft: We need to be realistic. Where we are in the league is still amazing. We are still second. We are still over achieving. Every team has a dip in form at some point. You cant win every game. I agree we need a new centre half as we are conceding too easy. We also need a young hungry forward who can feed off either stead or ameobi. But come on look where we have been for the last 4-5 years and get behind the team. Let us be the twelth man instead off slating the players, manager and whoever else. COYP!!!!!

David Skelding: If we want to win promotion we're going to need to find some composure from somewhere. What's the point in entering the pitch all hyped up if you're just going to gift a poor opposing team two ridiculously preventable goals and have two men sent off?

James Odell: We are just getting far too predictable and easy to play against. Meant to be 433 but its obviously 451 with stead left isolated. Huge gap between strikers and midfield, never around to picking up 2nd balls on the edge of the box. Squad has over achieved all season sadly getting found out now.

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Notts County have fallen to a second League Two home defeat in a row after Crawley Town won 2-1 at Meadow Lane on Tuesday night.

Jimmy Smith scored in the 25th minute to give the Red Devils the lead but Jon Stead levelled from the penalty spot 13 minutes in the second half.

It looked as though the Magpies would claim a point but late drama saw Matty Virtue sent off before Ross Fitzsimons also saw red - and conceded a penalty - for kicking out at an opposition player.

Josh Payne went on to convert his stoppage-time spot kick for their first ever win at Meadow Lane.

Notts vlogger and Pride of Nottingham contributor ARLukomski discussed the fixture ahead of kickoff, gave his thoughts as the game went on, and talked about the performance and result after the final whistle.

Follow ARLukomski on his YouTube channel by clicking here.

Share your thoughts about this vlog on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans.

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Notts County have the opportunity to put their 2-1 defeat to Exeter City behind them with tonight's League Two home game against Crawley Town.

How have the Red Devils been doing in the league? Who are their key players? And how are they expected to play?

Pride of Nottingham's Chris takes a look in our latest Scouting Report.

Head to head

Notts County have played Crawley Town 11 times in their history.

The first fixture between the two was on 10 November 2012 at Meadow Lane, a League One meeting which finished 1-1.

Meanwhile the return fixture, played away on 9 March 2013, ended as a goalless draw.

The record stands at seven Notts wins, two Crawley wins, and two draws - all games took place either in League One or League Two.

Notts have won their last five games in a row agains Crawley, and seven of the last eight.

Run-down of their last six features

Saturday 23rd December – Accrington Stanley 2 Crawley Town 3
Tuesday 26th December – Crawley Town 0 Colchester United 2
Saturday 30th December – Crawley Town 1 Stevenage 0
Monday 1st January – Yeovil Town 1 Crawley 2
Saturday 13th January – Crawley Town 2 Barnet 0
Friday 19th January – Newport County 2 Crawley Town 1

The Players – Fact Sheet

Highest Goal Scorers: Jordan Roberts 7, Enzio Boldewijn 6, Jimmy Smith 5 and Ibrahim Meite 3.

Persistent Foulers: Jordan Roberts 7 yellow cards and 1 red card, Josh Yorwerth 5 yellow cards and 1 red card, Mark Randall 6 yellow cards and Jimmy Smith 3 yellow card and 1 card.

The Key Players

In midfield, Lewis Young is a versatile player who offers a lot of pace – the younger brother of Manchester United star Ashley Young will be a player which will be required to be marked tightly by the magpies defence.

Also, Jordan Roberts is a tall posing player who has added goals to his tally this season. The creative spark within Crawley’s midfield – he has the ability to switch from an out-wide area to convert nicely within the centre park.

Enzio Boldewijn is a threat up top and, on his day can really cause havoc in the oppositions defence.

Style of Play, Strengths, and Weaknesses

Crawley Town are a physical but slow building team that focuses on creating chances from out wide, and hitting the opposition when space opens up.

They tend to sit back in an effort to absorb the pressure, this allows them to get a good feel for the game, and ultimately understand their counterparts better.

Due to this, the Red Devils can largely but put on the back foot from good play and as a direct result it puts them in danger – defensively they roll the dice a fair bit and rely on luck to survive conceding.

On the ball, they like ot press deep and use aerial balls as a way to cause havoc – where pace can exploit their opposition they do show no signs of fearing taking a team on, and if losing being a goal or two down doesn’t deter them either.

They’re a decent League Two team, who have the foundations to cause any side within this league problems.

However, due to their style of play and inconsistent performances – they do make it an uphill task for themselves not only to remain in competition for any points but also when creating their own chances on goal.

It’s clear that Notts will have to think more about how to hold the ball, whilst protecting their creative players.

Frustration will also be something that Notts will have to keep in check, so it’s important that little niggles don’t become a larger concern as the game progresses – as both sides will be naturally guilty of making silly mistakes.

I would like to see Notts use the flanks, as a way to gain ground but also switch to the centre of the park using timed overlaps as a way to directly cut in behind the opposition.

More chances should naturally fall for both teams, however if Notts focus more on the ground and use their feet well – this will unlock the Crawley Town defence in my opinion.

Set pieces and free kicks from an heading position may be an area whereby Notts could exploit.

However, they shouldn’t be scared to have a shot from distance.

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Notts County's superb unbeaten league home run has come to an end as Exeter City ran out 2-1 winners in Saturday's encounter at Meadow Lane.

The high-flying Grecians, who are in the promotion mix, took the lead after just seven minutes through Jake Taylor.

Jayden Stockley then doubled the visitors' lead just before half time as the Magpies struggled to click with several new players in the XI and in the absence of Matt Tootle and Richard Duffy.

Jon Stead pulled a goal back for the hosts with a second-half penalty, won after Shola Ameobi was hauled down in the box, but sadly Notts could not go on to find an equaliser.

Pride of Nottingham was at the game and interviewed a number of County fans prior to kickoff.

Questions asked include how Alan Hardy and Kevin Nolan have done in their first 12 months, whether Matty Virtue will be a good replacement for Ryan Yates and whether they are happy with the transfer business conducted so far.

Check out what the Black and White Army had to say in our latest episode of Meet the Fans!

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Notts County lost their unbeaten home league record as Exeter City secured a 2-1 victory at Meadow Lane.

First-half goals from Jake Taylor and Jayden Stockley gave the promotion-chasing Grecians a two-goal advantage.

Although Jon Stead scored a penalty, the Magpies could not go on to find an equaliser

The result means that Notts have tasted their first defeat in the league in front of their own fans since Portsmouth won last April.

What was the reaction from the Notts boss, players and fans following the draw? Here is a collection of the best post-match reaction.

Kevin Nolan

“It was a disappointing afternoon and it always is when you lose a game. But I thought the lads’ reaction in the second half was absolutely fantastic.

“I thought we totally outplayed Exeter, and while we created lots of opportunities, the ball just didn’t seem to fall for us or we didn’t work the keeper well enough.

“I just thought the response was better all round because in the first half we showed them a little bit too much respect.

“But I did feel that the free-kick which led to the first goal shouldn’t have been given and when a team scores off the back of it shows how big those decisions are.

“I discussed that at the end with the referee because little decisions are just as important.

“It was the same for their second goal. Their lad can’t win the ball without going through Jorge Grant.

“There is a ref and a lineman there and I am bewildered as to why the free-kick wasn’t given.

“But these are the decisions they have to get right even though I thought the referee had a decent game.”

Liam Noble

“I was disappointed to not get something out of the game, but going 2-0 down in the first half wasn’t good enough.

“We showed a good reaction in the second half but we can’t put ourselves in that position.

“We just fell short and we didn’t pick up enough second balls.

“But it was nice to be back out there and it would have been better had we got the result we had wanted.”

Jorge Grant

The Black and White Army - PON Forum

Chris:

I have to say, I fell Notts performed very poorly yesterday.

The first half wasn't very good at all, we committed players to far up the field and nobody bar Dan Jones had the pace to track back. Stead shouldn't have been playing on his own up front, though why does he insist on dropping to his knees as soon as he gets the ball? Yes, sometimes there was force and pushing but he never draws the foul to a convincing point for me.

Our midfield seemed very capable but sluggish to drive forward anything remotely creative.

Second half I felt Notts played some great stuff, yet we never looked likely to score and we just have this habit of trying to force the play - we need an Alan Judge type player that isn't afraid to shoot from distance. Go on Kevin, get Noble and some of the others to practice this - even Grant seemed woeful!

The referee didn't help but we should play beyond this, we just seemed to allow his poor handling to be bigger than it should.

Exeter I felt was very poor also, they used school boy diversion tactics and frequently cheated. I noticed several incidents which went unpunished, from a two footed challenge to one of their players hitting out at Virtue (for no reason).

At the end of the day we was poor and, I struggle to suggest we deserved anything from it.

United Pie:

With that loss yesterday my nerves are starting to rattle exester are starting to have a late serge. That loss now puts us in danger of the casing pack closing in on us Accrington are a game in a hand and can now go second with a win we need to hold our nerve and play like we have been doing. Cause loosing games like yesterday day dose not get you promoted.

Liampie:

fans near me kept going on about us missing yates but i think even he would have struggled yesterday.

we started poorly and it became a game of chasing them after the early goal for exeter. i think the better team won tbh, we did not create enough clear chances and for that reason i am disappointed. i think they scored from their first two shots on target! standards are slipping nolan.

ARLukomski:

I feel like we are gonna bottle this if we keep going the way we are. Nolan got it completely wrong yesterday. If it ain’t broken, don’t try and fix it. No idea why we went with 4-2-3-1 when it’s untried, untested and unproven with this team. Why change a formation that’s been working all season. Hunt plays everyone on for the first goal. Second one is a woeful pass by Virtue. Husin was bought off when he was doing well. Noble and Walker looked quality in the centre of midfield yesterday.  Hewitt is not a centre back, we desperately need to sign some cover. Early in the second half, four good balls were put into the box with nobody’s on the end of them, showing again why we so badly need a striker. Alessandra missed a sitter at the back post. Ameobi won the penalty then afterwards didn’t look bothered. The problem is yesterday’s selection was caused by injuries and again we have no strength in depth. Luton can have injuries and replace them players with players who are just as good. Tootle is ill and we replace him with a grandfather clock.

The Black and White Army - Social media

Peter Walker: Still In a better place than last January! Either we play Jonathan Forte or we get a striker in not another midfield player

Steve Brewer: Didn't play bad. Ref had a hand in both of their goals although it was bad defending and the goalie should have stoppe d

Stuart Anderson: 1st half was awful, why the hell we started 1 up top beggers belief!! 2nd started ok but we dominated when we bought a 2nd striker on! We need a pacey striker who knows where the net Is!! I thought Noble was very good today.

Adrian Wheatley: If today dont make them look for defenders then nothing will nothing on the bench for central defence and let the only option leave for free?

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Notts County's superb unbeaten league home run has come to an end as Exeter City ran out 2-1 winners in Saturday's encounter at Meadow Lane.

The high-flying Grecians, who are in the promotion mix, took the lead after just seven minutes through Jake Taylor.

Jayden Stockley then doubled the visitors' lead just before half time as the disjointed Magpies struggled to cope against their opponents.

Jon Stead pulled a goal back for Notts with a second-half penalty, won after Shola Ameobi was hauled down in the box, but sadly the hosts could not go on to find an equaliser.

Should you wish to see them, here are the official Notts YouTube highlights from the game.

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Notts County's superb unbeaten league home run has come to an end as Exeter City ran out 2-1 winners in Saturday's encounter at Meadow Lane.

The high-flying Grecians, who are in the promotion mix, took the lead after just seven minutes through Jake Taylor.

Jayden Stockley then doubled the visitors' lead just before half time as the Magpies struggled to click with several new players in the XI and in the absence of Matt Tootle and Richard Duffy.

Jon Stead pulled a goal back for the hosts with a second-half penalty, won after Shola Ameobi was hauled down in the box, but sadly Notts could not go on to find an equaliser.

How did the game pan out? Pride of Nottingham's Chris takes a look with this weekend's Tactical Talk.

Was the result fair?

It’s very hard to say it the result was fair or not, I feel a draw may have been deserved but ultimately I do acknowledge that Notts were poor yesterday – likewise I feel Exeter equally unimpressed but we massively lack any real quality on goal.

How did Notts play?

For me we seemed too focused on attacking, rather than retaining the ball – we frequently gave it away very cheaply and the whole way we played made it very difficult to match the speed/creativity which Exeter did process.

In the second half things did change, we held the ball and knocked it around – yet we never drawn Exeter’s player out or made space available. We tended to waste chances by trying to force the play, and only until Shola Ameobi came on did we look like a team able to get through the oppositions defence – simply we played a game of two halves. 

How did Exeter play?

They played okay, at times quite exciting but for some reason they always insisted on doing something which wasn’t really required. I considered them to be a very good team coming into the game, yet I feel their schoolboy tactics and efforts to cheat really became unimpressive. When they focused on playing ‘football’ they looked a useful side but I think they’d have struggled to score if Notts had performed better and had noticed what they were doing.

Did our tactics work out?

Not very well in the first half. In midfield, we had too many new faces, this really meant that Notts had to have a little more creativity on the ball and we never really saw this until the second half. We focused on attacking more than we did retaining the ball or even defending – it was clear a few minutes in that Exeter would push us due to how far we seemed to be playing up the pitch. Second half Notts played better, yet at no point was it really enough – it highlighted exactly why we need a striker and a defender as outlined in my January transfer window article (please link)

How did the referee perform?

I felt he was poor, yet his decisions seemed more ‘blinded’ than negligent – I do feel he favoured Exeter, who’s players seemed to get away with everything but really he’s the standard of your typical League Two referee and I feel Notts should be smarter to this.

Who do we play next?

Crawley Town – another test in terms of the physical side of the game. They won’t be pushed off the ball or bullied and they will pressure us for the ball. We need to be stronger and more creative, as I feel these are points to be claimed.

How should we play them?

Notts need to be focused defensively, we can’t play too far up the field and if Nicky Hunt starts – he needs to be told to only go forward when we can afford his absence.

In midfield I think we need to be calmer, more patient with our build-up play and attempt to draw the opposition out – as against Exeter we seemed to pack the centre of the park and this really limited the space that we could have exploited.

With Crawley being your typical ‘physical’ League Two team, we need to be mindful about giving them any sort of space on the pitch.

Whilst we lack pace at the back, wise positional play would give the magpies advantage and I think any attacks should be phased and risk assessed for being caught out.

I’d like to see us use Jorge Grant and Liam Noble as a way to draw the opposition out, these played apart from each other would give us a means to break the Red Devils down and to allow some ‘creativity’ to get started.

Really, Notts should look to thrive under possession-based football and look to be more dynamic with awareness going forward.

Pressure the opposition defence, use link-up play to support the attacks and just pass the ball into space whereby this may release someone goal side – it’s not exactly difficult but if we give Crawley an inch they will take a mile.

Exeter fan views (from Exeweb)

Billy the Fish: The first half we took the game to them and was as complete a performance from City as I have seen in a long while. The second half County came out entirely differently and looked like promotion candidates, dangerous in attack but strangely vulnerable to our counter attacks. Lee Holmes looked out of sorts and Jordan Tillson is obviously just filling a position until the big boys are back. He works hard and gets his challenges in but today he was like a rabbit in the headlights whenever he found himself with the ball at his feet. All the others impressed, TAH rode his luck at times but otherwise every one them can be proud of themselves. I couldn't see the incident which saw Troy penalised and booked for the penalty but it came from a free kick awarded in front of us and the linesman and for which there was no discernable infringement. One of many strange refereeing decisions which infuriated both sets of fans. Great three points and a great day out.

Red Bill: Just watched the goals, what a great goal the second was. Fantastic ball from Harley and a great finish from Stockley. I feel making the most of Harley, who i hope has done a lot to silence his critics with some terrific peformances lately, could be key to a serious promotion push.

Andrew P Long: We went too defensive after going two up. Instead of trying to prevent them scoring we should've gone for their throat. If we had done that we'd have won more easily and comprehensively, say 1-4, and RHK was cheated out of more than a grand etc.

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