Hello and welcome to episode 36 of the Pride of Nottingham PONcast, presented by Chris and JJ.

In this week's episode we discuss Notts County's League Two draw with Grimsby Town - why couldn't the Magpies break down their opponents?

We also look ahead to the weekend meeting against Cambridge United, the 23rd game of the season and an encounter against ex-Magpies boss Shaun Derry's current side.

We then talk about Derry's time at Meadow Lane and whether things would have been different had he been given the resources that Kevin Nolan has at present.

In addition we review the season so far, including what we deem to have been the standout match and who we think has been the best player, and discuss the club's FA Cup shirt sponsorship with William Hill.

All this and more only in episode 36 of the Pride of Nottingham PONcast!

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Notts County have maintained their unbeaten home record but lost ground on League Two leaders Luton Town in Saturday's 0-0 draw with Grimsby Town at Meadow Lane.

In a game of few genuine chances, the Magpies failed to muster a single shot on target against a Mariners side that defended well but likewise couldn't break down the hosts.

The result sees Notts still in second, four points ahead of third-placed Exeter City, but with Luton winning 2-0 at Forest Green Rovers, the gap between first and second is now two points.

How did the gaffer, the players and the fans react to the result? Pride of Nottingham has compiled some of the post-match quotes.

Kevin Nolan

"It was a fair result. We weren't our usual selves today.

"It's just one of those days. You're going to have them but we've not had too many here in the past year. We huffed and puffed a lot but our ability on the ball wasn't as up to scratch as it has been.

"We didn't create enough clear-cut chances or have enough sustained pressure so it was a job well done by Grimsby, as well as us not being at the top of our game."

Matt Tootle

"It keeps us on a run and they're a decent side. They've won their last three games and are one of the form sides in the league so it's not a bad point.

"They came here to frustrate us and made it hard for us. We've got to respect the point, which is something we didn't do last year.

"They had a couple of chances but I don't think they really threatened or put any sustained pressure on us. We weren't quite at it in the final third - it just didn't happen for us today.

"Hopefully we can pick up a win next weekend and it will all be fine."

The Black & White Army

Phil Wright: My first game of the season. And our first 0-0. We had a couple of chances. So did they. Fair result, but not a great performance.

Mick Jones: Frustrating game with both sides cancelling each other out and the ref doing his best to spoil it as well.

Jay Dalton: fair result really though if forte played first half things might have Been different but we march on coyp

Martyn Malone: Well that's 2 hours of my life I won't get back should be winning them games

Jimmy Gee: Memories of 18 months ago! Very poor team performance! No leader! Limited attack!

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Notts County have been held to a goalless draw by Grimsby Town in Saturday's League Two encounter at Meadow Lane.

Neither side could break the deadlock in NG2, although the Mariners arguably had the best chance of the game as Jamille Matt forced a great save from Ross Fitzsimons during the first half.

Despite sitting joint-top of League Two with Luton Town before kick-off, the Magpies were unable to register a shot on target during the game and have now slipped to two points behind the league leaders.

However, Kevin Nolan's charges still remain a healthy four points clear of third and six clear of fourth.

ARLukomski, a Notts vlogger and Pride of Nottingham contributor, 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 maintained their unbeaten home record but lost ground on League Two leaders Luton Town in Saturday's 0-0 draw with Grimsby Town at Meadow Lane.

In a game of few genuine chances, the Magpies failed to muster a single shot on target against a Mariners side that defended well but likewise couldn't break down the hosts.

The result sees Notts still in second, four points ahead of third-placed Exeter City, but with Luton winning 2-0 at Forest Green Rovers, the gap between first and second is now two points.

Here are the official YouTube highlights if you fancy seeing the key moments of the game again.

Share your thoughts about this game 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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Hello and welcome to episode 35 of the Pride of Nottingham PONcast, presented by Chris and JJ.

In this week's episode we discuss Notts County's draw with Luton Town from last week, a superb results which keeps the Magpies level on points with the League Two leaders.

We also look ahead to Saturday's league meeting with Grimsby Town, a great opportunity to keep momentum going in front of the Black and White Army at Meadow Lane.

In addition, we discuss whether struggling teams should have their Christmas parties cancelled, like John Sheridan did at Notts last year and ex-County boss Sam Allardyce has done at Everton this year.

We also check out what kind of attacker we should look to recruit in January - someone pacey, a poacher, a battering ram or something else? And on what contract terms?

All this and more only in episode 35 of the Pride of Nottingham PONcast!

Share your thoughts about this PONcast episode 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 successfully navigated the crunch clash with Luton Town last weekend, now we're back at Meadow Lane this weekend as we take on Grimsby Town.

The Mariners have enjoyed a decent enough season so far, sitting 11th in the table with nine wins, five draws and seven defeats.

Pride of Nottingham spoke to Grimsby fan Steve to get an insight on the opposition.

About Steve: Been a fan since the 90s and my favourite player of all time is John McDermott.

1) Grimsby spent six years in the non-league before coming back up. What led to your drop into the Conference and how did you eventually climb back up?

Financial problems at the start of the 2000s were the beginning of the rot, we plummeted down the leagues, and then in 2009-10 several disastrous decisions - giving our youth team coach the permanent job, moving Barry Conlon on - saw us down into non-league, which is a notoriously difficult league to get out of.

2) Blundell Park is famously situated in Cleethorpes rather than Grimsby. Is this something that fans currently talk/moan about or is it no big deal?

Not really. The name Grimsby Town goes back to the 19th century and the move to Blundell Park was made on the turn of the century, so it's just how it's always been.

3) There was some uproar from a number of Grimbarians about that Sacha Baron Cohen film named after your town when it came out. What was the general consensus from Mariners fans about it?

Opinions were split fairly even to be fair. Some people were offended at being depicted as typical "Northern" (in the Southerner definition of the word ie North of the Watford Gap) slobs, others were annoyed the town barely featured, but me and a lot of others just thought it was a laugh (not as good as his other films though) and kind of basked in the limelight for a bit.

4) Thomas Turgoose, the actor who made a name for himself in Nottingham-filmed This Is England, is a big Grimsby fan. Have you or any of your friends ever met him and what's he like in terms of supporting the club?

Can't say I do I'm afraid, but I'm a big fan of TIE - the film and the shows - proper telly (or cinema), maybe Cohen could have a word of two with Shane Meadows!

5) Who are your biggest rivals and, if a different team, who have been your most recent rivals?

Hull City are our main rivals but we haven't met in competitive games, cup or league, since the 1990s. More recently it's been Lincoln City, we've battled plenty of times in league (and non-league) so it's good to see them back.

6) Who are your team's danger men? And what do you think the score/scorers will be?

Luke Summerfield is a creative midfielder who likes to get forward and is very direct, he'll be a threat. Sam Jones is also going to be a handful - he's a striker who's really good at ghosting  inbehind the opposition defence. And I think it'll end 1-1, Jones to get our goal.

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Notts County have claimed a superb 1-1 draw away at Luton Town to stay level on points with the League Two leaders.

Shola Ameobi salvaged a point for the Magpies when he headed home the equaliser after Johnny Mullins had given the hosts the lead against the run of play in the first half.

The result kept Notts five points clear of third place and six clear of fourth, as well as putting one of the trickiest fixtures of the year successfully behind them.

How did the Notts fans, players and boss react to the draw? Pride of Nottingham takes a closer look.

Kevin Nolan

"We limited them to very few chances. Ross Fitzsimons pulled off a great save at the end, but overall we had a lot of opportunities - especially in the first half.

"They hit us with a sucker punch, but that's what they do with the quality they have. You can't switch off for a minute.

"Luckily enough we hit them back and it's a fantastic point.

"We respected the fact Luton had really good attacking threats and I thought we thwarted them very well."

Shola Ameobi

"I thought we were the better side. They have a lot of great attacking players but the boys at the back defended unbelievably well and I can't really think of a time when they opened us up.

"It was important that we were solid, which we spoke about before the game, and the guys played them perfectly.

"They've been scoring seven and eight goals against teams here so to limit them to a goal from a set-piece is testament to how hard we worked."

Players on social media

The Black and White Army on PON

Who r ya? You Pies: Great point well deserved , maybe could argue could have won with chances first half , then the late save kept the point so , I'm happy it's a terrific point , any doubts about whether we are contenders need to be forgotten , we are for sure , COYP 

Notts County have emerged from the crunch clash with League Two leaders Luton Town with a very creditable point in Saturday's 1-1 draw at Kenilworth Road.

The Magpies fell behind in the first half against the run of play when Johnny Mullins headed home to put the hosts ahead.

However, Shola Ameobi hit back with a header of his own to earn a share of the spoils for County, who had goalkeeper Ross Fitzsimons to thank for a crucial point-blank save late on.

The result keeps the Hatters top of the table on goal difference, with Notts breathing down their necks on the same amount of points after 21 games played.

Here is a comprehensive analysis of the game as written by Pride of Nottingham's Chris.

Was the result fair?

As predicted both teams fought hard, and ultimately cancelled each other out. It was one of those performances which highlighted our promotion credentials. Whilst nothing has been won yet, this result will be one which firmly features in the memory of our progression during the 2017-18 season. Fair result? Absolutely.

How did Notts play?

First half Notts played some brilliant football and by all accounts we were unfortunate to have conceded when we did. For an away performance this season, it’s got to be up there as one of the most enjoyable in terms of performance and result for fans. The team performed very well and played against Luton exactly as they should have done.

How did Luton Town play?

They played well, there’s no denying that, but the way that Notts asserted themselves it was always going to be hard and the fact that both teams cancelled each other out, well it highlights how good both sides were respectively. Luton fans should not be disappointed or disgruntled by the result either.

Did our tactics work out?

The tactics were spot on throughout the game, and the decisions during the match made it hard for Luton. Notts literally matched them and of course we kept them guessing, whilst protecting our weaknesses. Tactically I would say this was spot on.

How did the referee perform?

Reasonable performance by the referee, there’s been little complaints and I think this shows just how efficiently he officiated the game.

Who do we play next?

Grimsby Town – they’re making a solid push for the play-offs and seem to have shaken off their awkward start to the season. This will be another difficult test but one we should be well prepared for at Meadow Lane.

How should we play them?

It’s important that we approach the game with balance, at the back we will have to steady the flow of the game and up-top it’s vital that we don’t waste any good chances that are created.

The battle again will be based on the side which retains the control and has the most influence within midfield, so the game has got to be approached sensibly and well prepared.

Grimsby are most likely to try and break quickly against us, with interlacing balls and runs which will get into those awkward positions.

Most likely, they’ll attempt to break the game down in three ways.

Firstly, by being direct, so it’s important we stand with play and attempt to win the first/second ball.

Secondly, by countering us on the break – which will mean we will have to be mindful of how they attack from this situation and have men aware at the back to handle the space they attempt to create.

Thirdly, I suspect they will be patient and careful with how they pass. If they revert to making simple passes – i.e neat one-two’s and other methods to get forward. Notts will have to assure any ground that is won is well protected.

Controlling the game will be easier if we naturally score within the first half, the second half is always when things to start to click.

I would try to get a feel for the game and press in the manner that keeps them on the back foot.

We have two home games which will be key to our winter run and of course the potential promotion push, let’s create a fantastic atmosphere and finally have a Christmas worth celebrating. You Pies!

Luton Town fan views from the Luton Town Forum

Madpig

In the end that was a fair result. County matched us all the way. I can see why they're with us. There were few real chances and both defences bosses the game.

Where I think they really did their homework was in midfield. We were never given time or space to get things flowing, leaving Hylton and Elliott Lee to make their own chances.

E.Lee was a constant menace to them, couldn't be bullied off the ball at all. Halton suffered his usual brutal treatment by their defenders but never let it get to him.

In defence we were superb, and Mullins was my Mom, he really has become a fine player. We're top, unbeaten in ages and agonisingly one short of our 50th league goal of the season. Good day in all.

ODTT

The game had plenty of ebb and flow to it and was enjoyable for it. As suspected beforehand any of the three possible outcomes were possible but a draw about right consequently. I thought our defence was very nervy in the early stages and looked vulnerable. But looked a lot more composed after we had gone ahead somewhat against the run of play.

Our midfield didn't shine as much as we have come to expect and seemed well covered. O Lee was particularly anonymous I thought and Berry and Shinnie seemed to play well advanced and never seemed to be any great distance apart. Rea did his defensive duties well but appeared hesitant to carry the ball out from deep with ample space in front of him. The two or three times he did push out with the ball he panicked when releasing.

E Lee had a fabulous game, really put in a good shift and never gave the opposing central defenders a moments peace. Surprised in how many headed knock-ons he managed against bigger opponents. Hylton worked hard as well and pulled his markers hither and thither. Not sure what brutal treatment you speak of MP. He gives as good as he gets in a physical area of the game.

The 10/15 minute spell of exquisite football we played soon after half-time was magnificent and worth the entrance fee alone. County hardly got a touch and went very ragged. The save their keeper made from Mullins late on was outstanding and got them the point.

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Notts County have emerged from the crunch clash with League Two leaders Luton Town with a very creditable point in Saturday's 1-1 draw at Kenilworth Road.

The Magpies fell behind in the first half against the run of play when Johnny Mullins headed home to put the hosts ahead.

However, Shola Ameobi hit back with a header of his own to earn a share of the spoils for County, who had goalkeeper Ross Fitzsimons to thank for a crucial point-blank save late on to preserve the draw.

The result keeps the Hatters top of the table on goal difference, with Notts breathing down their necks on the same amount of points.

Pride of Nottingham has shared the official match highlights off the Notts YouTube channel so you can relive the key moments from the game.

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So here comes the big one... Notts County travel to Luton Town on Saturday as first takes on second in League Two.

How should the Magpies approach this game? What are their opponents' strengths and weaknesses?

PON's Chris has a look in this weekend's Scouting Report.

Head to head

Notts County and Luton Town have faced off 70 times in their history.

The first meeting came in January 1912 when the Magpies secured a 4-2 away win in the FA Cup.

Luton dominate the head-to-head with 35 wins over Notts, 20 draws and 15 defeats.

Out of the 11 matches between the two that have taken place since the turn of the century, Notts have won four, drawn four and lost four.

Run-down of their last six features

Saturday 21st October – Crawley Town 0 Luton Town 0
Saturday 28th October – Luton Town 0 Coventry City 3
Saturday 11th November – Cheltenham Town 2 Luton Town 2
Saturday 18th November – Luton Town 7 Cambridge United 0
Tuesday 21st November – Luton Town 3 Carlisle United 0
Saturday 25th November – Crewe Alexandra 1 Luton Town 2

The Players – Fact Sheet

Highest Goal Scorers: Danny Hylton 13, James Collins 9, Dan Potts 6 and Elliot Lee 6.

Persistent Foulers: Dan Potts 7 yellow cards, Alan Sheehan 6 yellow cards, Danny Hylton 4 yellow cards and Scott Cuthbert 2 yellow cards and a single red card.

The Key Players

At the back Dan Potts leads with example, he’s a very capable defender and likes to get forward as much as possible.

His ability to strike the ball and contribute to attacking play is equally as effect as his leadership at the back.

Meanwhile, in midfield, duo Olly Lee and Jack Stacey are the creative outlets for Luton Town.

They enjoy breaking down teams with clever passing, whilst showcasing an array of different types of passing in order to maximise their attacks.

Upfront they are blessed with several options on goal, however the prolific Danny Hylton suits their style of play well and likes to cause as much problems for the oppositions defence.

Style of Play, Strengths, and Weaknesses

Luton Town as can be expected are a well organised team, both at the back and going forward.

They like to use the flanks as their main outlet for breaking down teams, using a mix of low and high pass in order to get into key areas.

In the air they’re naturally very impressive and deliver inch perfect crosses from a wide range of areas that results in chances being created.

They commit players going forward, however the shape they often play means they have cover throughout the field of play.

Despite being a very attacking minded team, they don’t pressure sides by maintaining the ball and do like to invite play onto themselves – however this is something that they tend to use to counter.

When they’re playing well, Luton are a very difficult team to break down and they are comfortable playing the ball on the ground and defending it within the air.

Position-wise they don’t tend to leave much space, and cover areas which other teams often tend to forget about when being so heavily focused on attacking play – however, Luton do tend to allow teams to shoot from distance.

When they feel comfortable they do allow teams to pass, and their focus can temporarily be lacking but usually only for brief breaks.

When they don’t have a grip of the game, play is more open and teams with pace often find this to be the best method of attacking.

Likewise, being patient in possession and moving the ball around nicely is something which they tend to worry less about – which can be a mistake on their part.

Notts will have to be fully alert to the dangerous capabilities that Luton Town presents.

In the air they’ll have to show no fear, whilst on the ground we really do need to be quick at covering the ball and attempting to win it back.

Going forward, Notts will naturally need to make use of set pieces – whilst switching the areas in which they attack would be something that might catch their defence napping.

We really will be required to be strong on the ball, whilst creative and smart within our play going forward.

There will be little chance for mistakes, so we need to focus on playing them at their own game and forcing them to repeatedly attempt to figure out how best to break us down.

I think both teams will cancel each other out, for us it’s just a case of being alert at the back and taking whatever chances we may get on goal.

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Hello and welcome to episode 34 of the Pride of Nottingham PONcast, presented by Chris and JJ.

In this week's episode we discuss Notts County's FA Cup second-round win over Oxford City, looking at how we performed and whether we were worthy of a win.

We then move on to the third-round draw, which gave us a tie away at Brentford, and determine just how good a tie it is from both a glamour perspective and how winnable the game is.

We also preview the Magpies' upcoming League Two clash with table-topping Luton Town at Kenilworth Road, an encounter which could go a long way in determining who's going to get their hands on the title.

In addition we discuss Alan Hardy's revelation that Notts are losing £40,000 per month in win bonuses for players and coaches.

All this and more only in episode 34 of the Pride of Nottingham PONcast!

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Notts County have won a place in the hat for the third round of the FA Cup after a last-ditch 3-2 win over Oxford City in Saturday's second-round clash at Meadow Lane.

The Magpies took the lead in the first half when Carl Dickinson's cross was headed across the face of goal by Shaun Brisley and, with Oxford failing to clear their lines, Richard Duffy bundled home from point-blank range.

Early in the second half, the non-league side struck an equaliser as Zac McEachran’s cross found Rob Sinclair on the edge of the box, who fired low into the corner of the Notts net.

However, they were not level for long as, just three minutes later, Freddie Grant scythed down Terry Hawkridge in the box to give away a penalty, Jon Stead stepping up and confidently rifling low into the bottom corner.

Notts were then pegged back again on 73 minutes when McEachran sent a low cross the way of Matt Paterson, who curled a neat effort into the top corner beyond Ross Fitzsimons.

In the fourth minute of injury time, substitute Jonathan Forte's header was parried by Stevens into the path of Jorge Grant, who slotted home on the rebound to put Notts in the third round of the competition.

How did the Notts fans, players and manager react to the win and the place in round three? Here's a compilation of post-match reaction from Pride of Nottingham.

Kevin Nolan

"I'm very relieved and rightly so because weren't up to scratch today. Oxford City came with a great gameplan and stuck to it, which knocked us out of our stride a bit.

"But the resilience, togetherness and camaraderie the lads showed to score a last-minute winner again is absolutely fantastic and great testament to how far they have come in a short space of time.

"We weren't at our normal levels today but we found a way to win, which is always a great trait to have as a team.

"Oxford City were first-class and are very unlucky to be on the losing side. They played us really well and probably deserved more, but that's the drama of the FA Cup."

Jorge Grant

"Oxford City were very good. They were always going to come here and give it 100%. They shouldn't be as low as they are in their league; they played some good football and gave us a difficult test.

"The gaffer told us to relax at half-time. They got under our skin a little in the first half; we were slashing at things and doing things we wouldn't normally do, so we had to keep our composure."

Players on social media

The Black and White Army on PON

Ell100t: Don't think we played bad, Oxford City just gave it everything - it's the FA Cup. Into the next round importantly, no reply even better! Would love a prem team at Meadow Lane or an away tie at Tottenham (just to do a Wembley trip without the ballache of a cup run/ nerves of a playoff). On a side note, the thought of ever having to let go of Jorge Grant is getting more and more difficult.

Jon Coleman: We weren’t brilliant and Oxford played well to the end lucky win but that’s the FA cup looking forward to the next round COYP

Sandra Bryan: Don't give a **** how lucky we were we are in the next round we scored a winner in injury time and iam happy with that hard luck Oxford but that's

Peter Walker: Weren't great or not very good!! Understatement we were dogs**t! Unlucky Oxford City but the dramas of the FA Cup!! ????

James Spring: Right team won. We were far from our best and made a lot of silly errors. City had two efforts which both deflected in. They played well but we had enough chances to finish it at 2-1. As said above though, dont care how we won, we won and thats the only thing that matters

Brian Barry: We weren’t great but in fairness to Oxford they battled hard. A win is a win. Into the next round. Need a massive game against Luton.

Jasmine Victoira Cupit: The game play was not worth a win!! It was an embarasment. Oxford played that game amazing and they didn't deserve to lose!!

Alan Longstaff: Very lucky to win today, Oxford played the better football

Ian Ale Goode: We were not very good but we won so onwards and upwards

Cecil Richardson: Just papering over the cracks

Paul Ambrose: More jam than Hartley's xx????

Jo Warsop: Oh my word!!!!! Lucky pies!!!!!! Xxx

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Notts County have reached the third round of the FA Cup thanks to a late 3-2 win over Oxford City in Saturday's second-round meeting at Meadow Lane.

Richard Duffy's opener and Jon Stead's penalty saw the Magpies go ahead twice in the game.

However, the visitors levelled the scores on both occasions, Rob Sinclair and Matt Paterson looking to have secured a replay for the National League South side.

Jorge Grant would once again be County's hero and break City hearts, firing into the roof of the net from a yard out in the final minute to ensure that Notts were in the hat for round three.

ARLukomski, a Notts vlogger and Pride of Nottingham contributor, 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's League Two campaign gets put on hold for a week as they host National League South side Oxford City in the second round of the FA Cup.

With the game on BT Sport, the stage is set for the Magpies to try and reach the hallowed third round of the competition, but City have made it through four stages to get here, including a win over Colchester United.

How should Notts play? What can they expect from their non-league opponents? Pride of Nottingham finds out with Chris's Scouting Report.

Run-down of their last six features

Saturday 7th October – Oxford City 2 Poole Town 3

Saturday 21st October – Hemel Hempstead 2 Oxford City 0

Saturday 28th October – Oxford City 1 Concord Rangers 1

Saturday 11th November – Chelmsford City 1 Oxford City 2

Saturday 18th November – Oxford City 3 Wealdstone 2

Tuesday 21st November – Bognor Regis Town 0 Oxford City 0

The Players – Fact Sheet

Highest Goal Scorers: Matthew Paterson 9, Reece Fleet 4, Zac McEachran 4 and David Pearce 3.

Persistent Foulers: N/A no stats available.

The Key Players

Looking at Oxford City’s squad, it’s clear that their main threat is that of Matthew Paterson, he likes to get into the opposition's penalty area and generally causes trouble within the lower levels but tends to miss more chances than he takes.

Christian Oxlade-Chamberlain, the brother of Liverpool and England midfielder Alex, is a pacey winger who can score from the flank when presented a chance. He likes to run directly down the wing, whilst on occasions he does attack more towards goal itself.

Reece Fleet is their creative player, often carving out chances with his passing ability but he is also comfortable in front of goal and has a decent strike on him.

Style of Play, Strengths, and Weaknesses

Form in previous games, especially games within the league, really does go out of the window here but the style in which they play does take some bearing on the tactics in FA Cup games.

In the first round cup, City set themselves up defensively but with the mind set to counter when the chance presented itself – they attacked well at times and deserved their victory, because as a unit they put in a solid performance.

Whilst in the league it’s the typical any team can win, when sides work harder or appear more confident on the ball, City really do struggle. Several players tend to go missing and their play takes a major hit due to this.

On the ball they can build nicely, either by running directly into space (commonly the flanks) or by playing simple neat one-twos as a way to gain ground.

If allowed to play this way, they do it well, and this is where Colchester United failed by never attacking wisely.

In games where sides do allow them to play, City tend to assert control from midfield and work the ball around the oppositions penalty box showing no fear of shooting early.

If Notts mark tightly, draw them further up the field, this should make it fairly difficult for City.

Defensively they don’t like being hit with pace or when multiple players make good movement, this tends to cause confusion and their inability to pick up dangerous runs can be highly effective for opposition teams.

From distance set pieces will be a natural way to get around any issue caused by Oxford playing a deep defensive line.

Whilst the use of our quicker players who can draw players onto them, will release our strikers.

Notts must match their work-rate and work as a team during this clash, as any individual errors are likely to lead only to problems.

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Hello and welcome to episode 33 of the Pride of Nottingham PONcast, presented by Chris and JJ.

In this week's episode we discuss Notts County's League Two win over Colchester United - were the Magpies worthy of a win? Were the U's right to suggest they outplayed us? And what about the referee performance?

We look ahead to the FA Cup second-round clash with Oxford City, with a view to what tactics Kevin Nolan's side should utilise in the game against the non-league side so as to not suffer the same fate as Colchester.

We also touch on Alan Hardy's desire to have clappers at that game, contrasted with the Magpie fans voting on his Twitter poll not to invest in them.

In addition we discuss which as yet unnamed Premier League side might be coming to Meadow Lane for a pre-season friendly next summer - will it be Newcastle United, what with Nolan's connections, or another team?

All this and more only in episode 33 of the Pride of Nottingham PONcast!

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Ryan Yates scored a dramatic last-gasp winner as Notts County kept pace with League Two leaders Luton Town with a 2-1 win over Colchester United.

Shola Ameobi's penalty had put Kevin Nolan's charges in front in the second half after Michael Mandron was adjudged to have held back Yates in the U's box.

Colchester wasted an opportunity to draw level with a spot kick of their own when Ryan Jackson was fouled by Jorge Grant but Mandron’s shot was saved by Magpies goalkeeper Ross Fitzsimons.

Substitute Sanmi Odelusi then scored with his first touch in the 89th minute to seemingly give the U’s a share of the spoils.

However, the 94th minute saw Yates head home Grant's corner to ensure that Notts remain level on points with the Hatters and preserved their unbeaten home record in the league.

Pride of Nottingham was at Meadow Lane for the exhilarating victory and interviewed several Magpies fans ahead of kickoff.

Questions asked include whether Jonathan Forte is surplus to requirements, whether Richard Duffy is a liability at the back, and what Notts should do in case Grant and Yates return to their parent club in January.

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Notts County claimed three points the hard way on Saturday after requiring a 94th-minute winner to see off Colchester United at Meadow Lane.

Shola Ameobi's second-half penalty had given the Magpies the lead and Ross Fitzsimons kept out a spot kick at the other end from Mikael Mandron.

Aubstitute Sanmi Odelusi looked to have salvaged a point for the U's with his 89th-minute strike following an effort from Terry Hawkridge.

However, there was time for more drama as Ryan Yates glanced home a header to seal victory for Notts in a last-ditch 2-1 win which sent Meadow Lane barmy.

The result keeps Kevin Nolan's level on points with League Two leaders Luton Town and five points above the playoff places.

Pride of Nottingham was at Meadow Lane to watch Notts County's superb late win over Colchester United and took photos of fans before, during and after the game.

Are you in our gallery? Find out by checking out this weekend's Faces of PON!

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A dramatic late winner from Ryan Yates kept Notts County level on points with Luton Town at the top of League Two thanks to a 2-1 win over Colchester United at Meadow Lane.

The hosts had gone in front in the 68th minute when Shola Ameobi clinically converted a penalty kick after Mikael Mandron was adjudged to have pulled back Yates inside the area.

Mandron had the chance to make amends for his earlier mistake when Ryan Jackson was fouled by Jorge Grant, but saw his penalty superbly saved by Magpies goalkeeper Ross Fitzsimons.

However, the U's did manage to draw level in the 89th minute when Mandron picked out the run of Sanmi Odelusi who kept his composure to slot into the bottom corner of the net.

Notts did not let their heads drop and were rewarded in added time when Yates headed in at the back post from Grant's corner to send Meadow Lane barmy.

Pride of Nottingham has shared the official match highlights off the Notts YouTube channel so you can relive the key moments from the last-gasp win!

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Notts County claimed three points the hard way on Saturday after requiring a 94th-minute winner to see off Colchester United at Meadow Lane.

Shola Ameobi's second-half penalty had given the Magpies the lead but substitute Sanmi Odelusi looked to have salvaged a point for the U's with his 89th-minute strike.

However, there was time for more drama as Ryan Yates glanced home a header to seal victory for Notts in a last-ditch 2-1 win which sent Meadow Lane barmy.

The result keeps Kevin Nolan's level on points with League Two leaders Luton Town and five points above the playoff places, a great position to be in ahead of a busy festive period in December and early January.

How have the Notts County fans, players and manager reacted to the win? Here's a collection of the best responses.

Kevin Nolan

"It's a fantastic win. Colchester are a good outfit, they've asked us a lot of questions and taken us all the way to the wire.

"We had to be on our mettle on both sides of the ball. They caused us a few problems but I feel we contained them quite well.

"In the first half they played us really well and we didn't get any momentum or creativity going but in the second half, we dominated and looked more likely to win the game."

Ryan Yates

"I'm absolutely buzzing. We dominated the second half and got sucker-punched on the counter for their goal. But to come back and win shows the spirit of the team.

"They were a good side. They did both sides of the game really well. They were winning more second balls, putting it in behind us and making things difficult.

"We came in disappointed at half-time but had some firm words from the gaffer and put in a better performance in the second half."

The players on social media

The Black and White Army

Who r ya?? You Pies: 3 very good points against a good side who caused us problems, and what were those offials doing some strange decisions to say the least, but the lads kept going to the wire and got a deserved win, well done from me, COYP

Chris: First half was very daunting to watch, I didn't feel very comfortable and I felt it was a matter of time before they scored. However, they didn't quite have that threat on goal. I do feel they was unlucky, as Duffy elbowed and force one of the Colchester players down onto the ground (penalty any day for me). Thankfully it wasn't given, but I felt the first half was extremely poor. Second half, brilliant - things really clicked and I honestly felt we pressured them very well. We was unlucky at times as our build-up play was amazing and just the finishing which lacked, yet things can't be faulted. I felt the whole squad really put a solid performance and worked well. We deserved the points but what a fantastic save by Fitzsimons!

Elite_pie: A difficult game to sum up, I can understand why the Colchester fans would go home disappointed, but after a poor first half I think we just about did enough in the second to earn the 3 points.  This is just the sort of game we would have gained a point at best over the last few seasons, but Nolan seems to have instilled the 'never say die' attitude he always showed as a player into a fairly limited squad.  It counts for a lot in this division, I've lost count of the number of points we've dropped at Meadow Lane simply because the away side were organised, worked hard, and wanted it more.  To be sitting where we are on 41 points after just 20 games is way beyond my expectations, long may it continue.

Liampie: i am pleased as i thought it was going to end up a draw before the game. even at times during the match i thought it was and it probably should have been with their penalty but i do also feel we was good enough to win. luton is shaping up to be the exeter kind of game now.

TheSkipper: Yesterday is the type of game last season we would have lost and I thought Notts did a great job at pulling ahead once they had scored. I did not see the penalty, so I can't call it but the referee did seem keen to award something in their favour. Thought Notts played solid in midfield but we do need to be more organised at the back as I am concerned about these daft penalties.

BromPie: I thought the referee was terrible, he killed the flow at times and tended to favour Colchester United. The result is just wanted we needed, so for that reason I am delighted. Notts never gave up and ended up getting what they deserved. What a result!

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A dramatic late winner from Ryan Yates kept Notts County level on points with Luton Town at the top of League Two thanks to a 2-1 win over Colchester United at Meadow Lane.

The hosts had gone in front in the 68th minute when Shola Ameobi converted from the spot after Mikael Mandron was adjudged to have held Yates inside the area.

Mandron had the chance to make amends for his earlier mistake when Ryan Jackson was fouled by Jorge Grant, but saw his penalty superbly saved by Ross Fitzsimons.

However, the U's did manage to draw level in the 89th minute when Mandron picked out the run of Sanmi Odelusi who kept his composure to slot into the bottom corner of the net.

Notts did not let their heads drop and were rewarded in added time when Yates headed in at the back post from Grant's corner to send Meadow Lane barmy.

Here is Chris's detailed tactical analysis of the Meadow Lane encounter.

Was the result fair?

I think the first half would have made me sway more towards a draw if Notts hadn’t been so impressive in the second half. Despite the iffy calls from the match officials, I would say the win was deserved.

How did Notts play?

Awful within the first half, it was stagnant and very depressing to watch. The defence just didn’t pressure or deal with anything and up top we weren’t effective at all. This was all put right within the second with a spectacular performance which honestly I felt warranted more goals for the Magpies – however it was entertaining on both parts and Colchester gave as good as they got.

How did Colchester United play?

No end product, they tended to overwork the ball which was fortunate enough for us. Don’t get me wrong, they played well and attacked with flair befitting of a Championship team – yet they never actually had much edge when it really mattered. They was organised very well and as a unit they did fine.

Did our tactics work out?

Reasonably, yet things did change within the second half. We really do need to learn how to break sides down in a more effective manner without waiting for the second half in order to do it – if you remove the penalty, the play was very dangerous at times and Notts played with a sense of confidence which we are becoming accustomed too. I would just like to see it a little more during both halves.

How did the referee perform?

It’s lucky I’m not an expert otherwise I would get fined for my opinion of the referee and match officials. I think they turned up with Richard Duffy, as they all seemed to be sleeping. The referee sided with Colchester, he issued a very soft card to Notts (Matt Tootle) – yet somehow managed to avoid booking several bad challenges, including assault to Jorge Grant. Then we have the incorrect decisions, and favourable free-kicks. They were dire! Enough said…

Who do we play next in the league?

Luton Town – it’s going to be one of those games, I can tell now. We’ll either do an Exeter City and come out of it looking very strong or they’ll do a Coventry City and turn us over.

How should we play them?

The key thing will be all about how we defend, if we sit back – put our feet up and invite pressure, well I don’t think we will have any nails left.

It’s important that we press, cover and ultimately defend in a manner which makes it hard for Luton Town. If we allow Luton to play as we did Colchester or a number of other teams, well it’s not going to be enjoyable.

There’s a very good chance that both teams effectively cancel each other out, it’s one of them that it’s just so hard to call right now.

If we play to our strengths and allow the midfield to do their job, and press in a manner which highlights our conviction and belief that we are capable of winning any team within League Two.

It will naturally see chances created, it will just be a case of who’s playing up top?

If we have a little bit of pace this will most likely aid us, if Jon Stead is still injured and Jonatyhan Forte too. Well, I don’t know – I can’t see us holding the ball up much, so in most likely event we will need to move and use the ball well.

Colchester fan views (from The U'Sual)

durham_exile: Absolutely gutted and having just seen the highlights we definitely lost 3 points when we deserved a point at the very least. Still years ago we played Buryat Layer Road we were outplayed by the Shakers but managed to win with a Lindsay Smith goal, Bury were hard done by just as we were today but both teams were promoted at the end of the season. Up the U's.

gerry_us: I hate to say "told you so" but U's didn't turn up for the second half until too late. I can't believe that half time talk would have been of a credible draw but County's team talk would have had to be astounding to warrant what happened second half. We did not mount one attack for the first twenty minutes of the second half and just invited County to attack us with renewed enthusiasm especially as they were very second best first half. Pressure mounted on us until the inevitable. Mandron apparently gave up the penalty but not clear enough to comment more. Only being 1-0 down did we return to the earlier endeavours with the resultant penalty award for us. All around were shouting "not Mandron" and how right we were...awful penalty. However continued in attacking ways and finally scored the goal of the game on 88 minutes. Still we failed to protect what would have been a well deserved point when we poorly defended a late corner in 93 minute. You just couldn't make it up. When will we play for 90 minutes? If? we play as we did for first half for the remainder of the season anything is possible. If we play as we did in second half goodness knows what could happen. Just an aside, excellent support from 350 travelling supporters and all were still in the ground at the final whistle.

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Notts County claimed three points the hard way on Saturday after requiring a 94th-minute winner to see off Colchester United at Meadow Lane.

Shola Ameobi's second-half penalty had given the Magpies the lead but substitute Sanmi Odelusi looked to have salvaged a point for the U's with his 89th-minute strike.

However, there was time for more drama as Ryan Yates glanced home a header to seal victory for Notts in a last-ditch 2-1 win which sent Meadow Lane barmy.

The result keeps Kevin Nolan's level on points with League Two leaders Luton Town and five points above the playoff places, a great position to be in ahead of a busy festive period in December and early January.

ARLukomski, a Notts vlogger and Pride of Nottingham contributor, 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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We're 19 games into the season and top spot in League Two keeps changing hands more often than a game of "pass the parcel".

Notts County were top of the table until Tuesday night, when a 1-1 draw at Yeovil Town saw Luton Town return to the top on goal difference.

But this weekend we go again and the team standing between the Magpies and three points is Colchester United, who currently sit in a very healthy ninth place in the standings.

How should Notts line up against the U's? What's their style of play and how can we counter it in order to be most effective and clinch victory? PON's Chris aims to answer these questions in this Scouting Report.

History

Notts County have met Colchester United 43 times over the years, all league encounters except for one Sherpa Vans Trophy tie in 1988.

The Magpies are in front when it comes to head-to-head, having won 21 games to Colchester's 15, with seven draws.

The first fixture between Notts and Colchester took place on 23 February 1959 at Layer Road, a Division Three clash which finished 4-1 to the U's.

The last fixture was last season on 1 April, the Magpies winning 3-1 at Meadow Lane.

All league encounters between the two have never taken place higher than the third tier.

Run-down of their last six features

Tuesday 17th October – Newport County 1 Colchester United 2

Saturday 21st October – Coventry City 0 Colchester United 0

Saturday 28th October – Colchester United 3 Crewe Alexandra 1

Saturday 11th November – Barnet 0 Colchester United 1

Saturday 18th November – Colchester United 0 Morecombe 0

Tuesday 21st November – Colchester United 1 Lincoln City 0

The Players – Fact Sheet

Highest Goal Scorers: Sammie Szmodics 7, Mikael Mandron 6, Kyel Reid 3 and Ryan Jackson 2.

Persistent Foulers: Tom Lapslie 6 yellow cards and 1 red card, Mikael Mandron 4 yellow cards and 1 red card, Lewis Kinsella 4 yellow cards and Doug Loft 4 yellow cards.

The Key Players

Mikael Mandron is a versatile player, who can play out wide or up front. He’s a player that Notts will have to mark wisely, as he will cause some trouble if allowed to find space.

In an attacking midfield position Sammie Szmodics is capable of lashing a shot towards goal from distance; he’s also a threat during set pieces and from corner kicks.

Lastly at the back Tom Eastman tends to lead the line and offers something to both Colchester United going forward and protecting the back.

Style of Play, Strengths, and Weaknesses

Colchester United like to get the ball out wide where they have pace, whilst showing determination to take on the opposition with direct runs.

They also tend to knock it back into the centre of the park where again they like to run in order to create chances and find space.

They can carefully craft chances whilst not being afraid to be patient within their build up play.

The majority of chances fall just outside the opposition area where they aren’t afraid to have a pop at goal – which will be a test for Notts to ensure they close them down early as possible.

Tactically they build in the right way, showing a nice mixture of styles and methods in order to create organic chances.

However, they’re prone to wasting chances but nonetheless they’re a team to be wary of.

At the back they are quite solid and well organised, teams find it hard to gain space – whilst breaking them down isn’t easy at all.

They hide their weaknesses well, which teams often explore during the half way period on how to exactly attack them – this will be a good test for the creative players within the Magpies’ ranks and the centre pairing within midfield will need to be knocking on Colchester’s door in terms of causing them problems.

I can’t see many one-on-ones being created, so Notts may be force into drawing fouls for free kicks or taking shots themselves from distance.

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