Notts County have relinquished top spot in League Two after being pegged back by Yeovil Town for a 1-1 draw at Huish Park on Tuesday night.

The Magpies had looked on course to remain at the summit when substitute Jonathan Forte raced through to produce an excellent finish.

However, former Notts forward Francois Zoko was brought down in the box late on for a penalty which he duly rattled home from the spot for a share of the points.

Here is how Kevin Nolan, plus the Black and White Army, reacted to the draw.

Kevin Nolan

“I think we should have had all three points. I thought the referee missed a penalty. It was a blatant handball.

"And I am massively disappointed that I am talking about the referee when I don’t want to go on about them because they have a hard job.

“The lad has handled in the area so I am majorly disappointed. Then for their penalty I thought it was soft and it looked like he couldn’t wait to give it really.

“It was disappointing from our end because I didn’t feel we were under too much pressure from them.”

Notts fans

Liampie: I feel robbed but i would have taken the point at the start of the game. i just think we need to cut the mistakes out, duffy seems like a chicken at times and hes cost us 2 points tonight.

Chris: I really don't feel Duffy is someone who can lead us at the back, I don't disagree that he has improved but I just don't think he's good enough. When he was given the captaincy, I just didn't get why. I'm not bothered about the result, I respect the point and I have said it's a decent result. Yet we should have won, and would have done without a silly challenge.

I'm hopeful we sign a solid CB for this league in January, whilst I hope we give someone else the armband. Yeovil aren't a bad side, and like I called I felt they would pinch a point. At the time it seemed to be all favouring us though, yet my gut just said that it would happen. It's kinda disappointing, yet we can't be deflated by the result. Yet If we aim to escape this division we can't accept weak or poor defending.

Bring on the next league game, we'll be fine.

Lee Atkins: Too much punt and hope for me. Long ball all game got boring and Yeovil knew what we were going to do. Duffy is poor. Midfield (central) also went missing too much for my liking a centre midfielder needs to stay central and hold not go wondering off all the time like milsom did. Trying to work the ball into the net does not work in league 2, had enough chances on the edge of the box to pull the trigger but everyone seemed scared to shoot. Need a new striker, centre mid and central defender In January.

Colin Hodgson: We got a point. Long way to go. Still a lot of them teams around us have got to come to Meadow Lane. Kevin Nolan's black and white army!

Tim Taylor: Win at home and draw away as they say. We wont be far off. From my past knowledge teams who get promoted lose circa 10 games or less. Playoffs usually 14 or less. We have lost 3 in 19. Same form equals roughly 10 in 46. Therefore, promotion. COYP!

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Notts County have slipped off the top of the League Two table after their former striker Francois Zoko helped Yeovil Town claim a 1-1 draw at Huish Park on Tuesday night.

The Magpies took the lead through substitute Jonathan Forte's well-taken 41st-minute opener and dominated their opponents for much of the second half.

Zoko, however, converted a penalty 10 minutes from time after he was brought down in the area by Magpies defender Richard Duffy.

The hosts were reduced to 10 men late when Sid Nelson was dismissed for an elbow on Ryan Yates but they nonetheless held on for a share of the spoils.

County's slip-up allowed Luton Town to return to the summit on goal difference as they claimed a 3-0 win over Carlisle United.

Relive the game with the official YouTube highlights which we have linked here for you.

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With Notts County two points clear at the top of League Two following Saturday's 3-1 win over Cheltenham Town, attention must swiftly turn to a taxing midweek fixture away at Yeovil Town.

Although the Glovers currently sit 17th in the table, they have claimed a number of big scalps this season, including Coventry City, Exeter City and Accrington Stanley.

How should the Magpies approach this game? Here is Chris's Scouting Report to analyse the fixture and the opposition from a tactical perspective.

History

Notts County and Yeovil Town have met 15 times over the years.

The first game took place at Meadow Lane on 4 November 1961, with the Magpies beating their opponents 4-2 in the FA Cup.

That was the only meeting of the two pre-21st century - the 14 meetings following that game all took place between 2004 and this year.

The last game was a League Two encounter at Meadow Lane last February, a goalless draw.

Yeovil have the upper edge in the head-to-head with seven wins, five defeats and three draws against Notts.

Run-down of their last six features

Saturday 14th October – Yeovil Town 2 Crewe Alexandra 0
Tuesday 17th October – Cambridge United 2 Yeovil Town 1
Saturday 21st October – Barnet 1 Yeovil Town 1
Saturday 28th October – Yeovil Town 3 Stevenage 0
Saturday 11th November – Carlisle United 4 Yeovil Town 0
Saturday 18th November – Yeovil Town 1 Swindon Town 2

The Players – Fact Sheet

Highest Goal Scorers; Otis Khan 7, Olufela Olomola 7, Francois Zoko 5 and Sam Surridge 5.

Persistent Foulers; Francois Zoko 5 yellow cards and 1 red card, Olufela Olomola 2 yellow cards and 1 red card, Nathan Smith 4 yellow cards and Otis Khan 4 yellow cards.

The Key Players

Midfielder James Bailey is Yeovil’s engine in midfield. If he’s playing at the top of his game, it influences the players around him. He has the ability to take hold of a game and instantly change, whilst pressing he can also unlock chances.

Francois Zoko on his day can be a major problem, both for the opposition but also his own team. If given space, he can cause headaches at the back – however this is provided he keeps his temper in check.

His strike partner Olufela Olomola, meanwhile, is also a very pacey option for Yeovil who likes to be direct, and his attitude and energy can really cause problems.

Style of Play, Strengths, and Weaknesses

Yeovil Town mix their style between passing along the floor, whilst they also try to break teams down by keeping the ball in the air – quick passes usually enable them to move forward into the opposition territory and it does warrant some concern if allowed to play.

They like to inject pace onto the ball, but they seem to have a fairly weak grasp on their organization, whilst they tend to give silly fouls away which often leads to them feeling exposed at the back.

If caught out in possession it takes them a little time to adjust, something which good teams often use to their own advantage.

Despite looking comfortable on the ball, all it takes is for an individual to make one mistake and this can really be Yeovil’s undoing.

Defensively they just don’t seem committed when it matters, there’s little pressing and their loose marking makes it very easy for the opposition to have a shot.

Teams that work hard and perform well often manage to make the most of the chances gained, so it’s important for Notts to be strong within the midfield, yet patient upfront when it matters.

Picking the ball up and countering will be something Notts could use to their advantage, as is drawing fouls – free-kicks and other set pieces will naturally come if Yeovil are pressed.

If we play with our own tempo and pace, avoiding just focusing on one flank, Notts should enable space to open up within the centre of the park. Jorge Grant, Ryan Yates and Rob Milsom will be players who can maximise the opportunities which presence themselves.

Overall Yeovil aren’t to be underestimated, yet if the game can be controlled by Notts, it should fall in favour of the away team.

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Notts County have extended their lead at the top of League Two thanks to their 3-1 win over Cheltenham Town on Saturday.

The Magpies took the lead on the half-hour mark through Jorge Grant following Jon Stead's layoff but Carl Winchester hit back within five minutes to equalise.

However, a quickfire double from Notts in the opening stages of the second half - through Grant and Shaun Brisley - gave Nolan another home win.

Here is how the Notts fan base, players and boss reacted to the solid victory.

Kevin Nolan

"I'm absolutely delighted with the three points and I thought they were well-deserved.

"You're seeing things which we're trying to recreate from the training ground, like passing patterns, which make the lads feel more familiar when they are in those positions on a matchday.

"They are taking a lot on board. I'm delighted with some of the play in the last few weeks and there's still more to come."

Jorge Grant

"I thought we were good. They had some spells where they created chances but that's going to happen. We were strong in those situations and got our rewards when we scored.

"We're dealing with the pressure better than we have before and it was another good performance from us.

"Teams know what they're going to get and they have to bring their 'A' game, otherwise they're not going to win."

The players on social media

The fans

TheSkipper: Good win yesterday, second half Notts stole the show and played some very good football. First half we don't need to mention. I am still unsure how exactly we scored but I did think Cheltenham came back well. Even in the second half they didn't look like they was out of it, probably one of the better games at Meadow Lane.

Countyman: I barely noticed Hewitt's absence and I thought Milsom did a more complete job, did we miss Elliot at all? No. We have played some good football this season, at times we may have been lucky but yesterday was not one of them games. We deserved the points! Well done Notts.

Jay Dalton: Notts will be champions or automatic I still believe they will be champions notts full of confidence all playing as a team no doubt Nolan has bought the believe in notts and got them playing proper football dead ball specialist grant again brilliant stuff first half bit lack lustre second half stepped up a gear and super notts shone through non stop attacking coyp Nolan's super notts black white army!

Steve Brewer: Hey they were the worse team I have seen yet. Should have been well out of sight. But as usual we make a game of it. Saying that we do look like league leaders. The big No. 9 was awesome. Grant class. Hawks was good and so was Toots. Goalie is in for the season. Sorry Collin but he is well better. Luton looming

Chris Buckley: We looked alright first half, but after they scored we just seemed awkward. We came out much stronger in the second half, several players clicking together to put on a very good display. Quite a crucial win in terms of staying top. Overall a good team performance and ultimately 3 points which will do nicely. #COYP

Geoff King: At one one and kicking towards the kop I expected we'd take the three points and in the end so it proved

John Weatherbed: One of the best games I have seen in a long time... Well done to all.. Was good to hear the support singing ???? around the ground.

Tracy Rigby: Awesome! Thank you Kevin Nolan in believing and showing the lads the way to win and you was a winner as a player and your a winner as a manager!

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Notts County continue to set the pace at the top of the League Two table thanks to a 3-1 win over Cheltenham Town on Saturday.

Jorge Grant opened the scoring on the half-hour mark when Jon Stead's layoff was convincingly rifled home by the Nottingham Forest loanee.

However, the Robins restored parity against the run of play when Carl Winchester was allowed space to unleash a low shot goalwards that snuck beyond Ross Fitzsimons.

Kevin Nolan's side rode their luck early in the second half but eventually came good as Grant doubled his tally with a free kick.

Just a few minutes later, Shaun Brisley added a third to preserve Notts' great home league form and top spot in the table.

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

Questions asked include what the fans thought of the club having had the most managers over the last 20 years and Alan Shearer's comments regarding Kevin Nolan's future at the club.

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A brace from Notts County top scorer Jorge Grant helped keep the Magpies at the top of League Two as they beat Cheltenham Town 3-1 at Meadow Lane.

The loanee opened the scoring on the half-hour mark when he guided the ball into the far corner following good work from Jon Stead which culminated in a layoff into the centre.

Cheltenham, however, were level just five minutes later as Carl Winchester steered home a low effort beyond Ross Fitzsimons with what was the Robins' first shot on target.

Notts rode their luck but went on to retake the lead when Grant's 25-yard free-kick took a wicked deflection to wrongfoot Scott Flinders for his 13th goal of the season.

The Magpies then made the game safe when a well-worked corner ended with Richard Duffy flicking towards the back post for Shaun Brisley to head home.

PON's Chris photographed Notts County fans before, during and after Saturday's victory - see if you're in this week's Faces of PON!

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Notts County have extended their lead at the top of League Two thanks to their 3-1 win over Cheltenham Town on Saturday.

The Magpies took the lead on the half-hour mark through Jorge Grant following Jon Stead's layoff but Carl Winchester hit back within five minutes to equalise.

However, a quickfire double from Notts in the opening stages of the second half - through Grant and Shaun Brisley - gave Nolan another home win.

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

Was the result fair?

The first half had 'draw' written all over it, but the second-half performance was very impressive when things clicked, and the victory is well deserved. I do feel sorry for Cheltenham in some senses, yet this is football but it was nice to see a team continue to give Notts a game even after going 3-1 down.

How did Notts play?

There’s very little to write about within the first half, it was scrappy and uneventful mostly. Out of nowhere Notts took the lead – at a time whereby it looked very likely to end a draw. After Cheltenham scored, our defence looked totally depleted and nervous.

Second half started very lively, and the midfield pushed to take the lead and then after the game just seemed much different. It certainly wasn’t pretty at times, but overall it was a very good team performance and a well deserved three points.

How did Cheltenham play?

Their defence was rocky due to trying to be more offensive, I could see this being the case myself and I mentioned it within the scouting report.

I disagree that they ‘played badly’, I thought they moved the ball around well and certainly gave Notts a game even after going 3-1 down. They just seemed unlikely to score, yet their goal was a brilliant move and certainly if they had of clicked themselves it could have been more difficult. Yet overall it was a decent performance, we just outplayed them in the second half but credit to Cheltenham they never gave up.

Did our tactics work out?

I think the way both teams started it just cancelled each other out. Prior to our goal we looked the most likely to score, but everything was just a bit uneventful due to a lack of quality on goal. In the second half things changed, and as a result Notts played with more tempo which forced the play.

How did the referee perform?

He was a bit baffling at times, yet I’m always going to say it – he’s the typical standard for League Two. My gripe is I felt he always seemed keen to have words with Notts players, whilst after going 3-1 up – it was like he couldn’t award any genuine foul in our favour simply because we looked likely to score. I counted at least five punishable challenges which were never given, luckily it didn't cost us in the end.

Who do we play next?

Yeovil Town – They’re not the same side that we played a few seasons ago, although they are a decent outfit and one that does tend to raise to playing games against teams such as Notts.

How should we play them?

We just have to assert the same level of pressure as we did against Cheltenham in the second half, our performance similar to how we did against Exeter City.

Be confident in possession, wise on the ball and move into the areas whereby we can make the most of the space gained – if we put them under pressure I honestly think they will cave in but that said we need to avoid causing problems within our own defence.

Yeovil are a side which will easily make the most of opposition indecisions at the back, and any worrying will lift them.

If we can avoid making too many changes, this will also aid us but that said I do expect to see at least three – I just wouldn’t go beyond five at all.

Our midfield can play in such a style that it can take the pressure of ourselves, whilst enabling confidence upfront. It’s important we strive for this, as any of our strikers could make the most of this.

Cheltenham fan views (from The Robins Nest Forum)

Runlistening: Conceding 2 goals in 2 minutes again.. how does this keep happening? I know this was always going to be a hard game but soon as we concede 1 you know another one is going in in 1-2 minutes...

Longmover: Whatever they have been instructed to do isn't working, It's the management job to get the instructions to stick, they're (Gary Johnson's) players, he bought them in.

Oldun: Oh good show! Lose to top of table team and its knives out for Gary. Now there's a surprise! Only six subs, very weak bench due to injuries and suspensions (all Gary's fault) Deflected second goal. (Gary's fault) By the way... Luton scored seven today, which shows how terrible it was not to win last week. Gary will have to go; we really can't carry on like this, not winning every time we play. And I hate sarcasm too.

Another_FoD_Robin: So if we have six players on the bench Oldun whose fault is it? I thought as a football manager you bring players in and take players out. I accept budget and we can't take into account some bad luck but the bottom line is GJ is meant to bring players in to strengthen the squad. Or to ensure players coming in can do a job. GJs job is to motivate and instruct what to do during games. So on the back of game management - the players need to take responsibility too. I as an amateur player understand how to manage a game so please explain to me why players who are professional struggle. The little things add up...

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Notts County continue to set the pace at the top of the League Two table thanks to a 3-1 win over Cheltenham Town on Saturday.

Jorge Grant opened the scoring on the half-hour mark when Jon Stead's layoff was convincingly rifled home by the Nottingham Forest loanee.

However, the Robins restored parity against the run of play when Carl Winchester was allowed space to unleash a low shot goalwards that snuck beyond Ross Fitzsimons.

Kevin Nolan's side rode their luck early in the second half but eventually came good as Grant doubled his tally before Shaun Brisley added a third to preserve Notts' great home league form and top spot in the table.

Relive the key moments from an exciting game with Notts County's official YouTube highlights, which we have posted here for your viewing pleasure.

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Notts County continue to set the pace at the top of the League Two table thanks to a 3-1 win over Cheltenham Town on Saturday.

Jorge Grant opened the scoring on the half-hour mark when Jon Stead's layoff was convincingly rifled home by the Nottingham Forest loanee.

However, the Robins restored parity against the run of play when Carl Winchester was allowed space to unleash a low shot goalwards that snuck beyond Ross Fitzsimons.

Kevin Nolan's side rode their luck early in the second half but eventually came good as Grant doubled his tally before Shaun Brisley added a third to preserve Notts' great home league form and top spot in the table.

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.

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Here we are in mid-November and Notts County continue to hold top spot in League Two.

Up next for us is a home encounter with Cheltenham Town, who currently sit 16th in the table.

How are the Robins likely to line up? What tactics could they use? What's their style of play and how should Notts counter it?

Here is a thorough analysis by PON's Chris about the weekend's game and the opponents.

History

Notts County and Cheltenham Town have met just 10 times over the years.

The first meeting came in Division 2 on 28 September 2002 at Whaddon Road, and Notts comfortably won 4-1.

Notts are ahead in the head-to-head with 6 wins, 2 draws and 2 losses.

Run-down of their last six features

Saturday 7th October – Cheltenham Town 2 Swindon Town 1

Saturday 14th October – Port Vale 3 Cheltenham Town 1

Tuesday 17th October – Cheltenham Town 2 Grimsby Town 3

Saturday 21st October – Cheltenham Town 1 Lincoln City 0

Saturday 28th October – Wycombe Wanderers 3 Cheltenham Town 3

Saturday 11th November – Cheltenham Town 2 Luton Town 2

The Players – Fact Sheet

Highest Goal Scorers; Mohamed Eisa 7, Kevin Dawson 6, Brian Graham 5 and Danny Wright 5.

Persistent Foulers; Kevin Dawson 3 yellow cards and 1 red card, Brian Graham 4 yellow cards, Harry Pell 4 yellow cards and Jordan Cranston 3 yellow cards.

The Key Players

Harry Pell is the standout player for me, he’s a comfortable and confident player on the ball – who likes to make direct runs into space which allows the game to open up for Cheltenham Town. He also has a good eye for finishing and can be a treat from set pieces.

Upfront Mohamed Eisa also has an eye for goal, however he’s also very skilful on the ball and likes to take on runs when possible – he naturally draws defenders onto him and this generally doesn’t affect his game.

Jordan Cranston has been ruled out for the rest of the season with a hamstring and he will be missed by the Robins - he is pacey, likes to get on the ball as much as possible and influences the game positively with his passing ability.

Style of Play, Strengths, and Weaknesses

Cheltenham Town tend to press their opposition which leads to some good displays, however they’re largely inconsistent in terms of their performance and often get punished due to individual mistakes.

On the ball they are confident and build nicely as a unit, they make use of numbers and aren’t afraid to commit players to their attacks.

However, this leaves them vulnerable at the back and due to their attacking style – this tends to invite play onto themselves.

Good teams often find plenty of space and opportunities to shot on goal, but in certain situations this can cancel out play leading to scrappy play.

There’s a good amount of pace within the Robins’ side and this certainly something which opposition teams can struggle against – whilst their attitude to never surrounding does mean that they can often make up for the individual mistakes which leads to them conceding.

The good football that they do express can result in them controlling the game, yet this is something which doesn’t happen as often as their manager Gary Johnson may like.

Notts will have to be physical to assert authority on the ball, whilst maintaining confidence under any direct pressure.

Our midfield will be key to unlocking chances, however I fully expect them to be required to help with defensive duties and as such it’s important we don’t over stretch ourselves.

Corners will be a useful tool for the Magpies’ and if we make use of the space which opens up from set plays, I can certainly see this as being a useful form of attack for Notts.

There’s no doubt Cheltenham are a decent outfit within League Two and as such, we shouldn’t underestimate them.

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Hello and welcome to episode 32 of the Pride of Nottingham PONcast, presented by Chris and JJ.

In this week's episode we discuss Notts County's draw against Stevenage and look ahead to the League Two fixture against Cheltenham Town, with a view to what tactics the Magpies should utilise in the Meadow Lane encounter.

We also touch on comments made by Alan Hardy about signing "three to four" reinforcements in January and look to who Notts should recruit, as well as which players should be moved on, either on loan or permanently.

We also analyse the Sky Sports League Two Predictor picking Notts as this season's champions and talk about the club "fans" that went on Soccer AM, which led to considerable criticism by the Black and White Army on social media.

All this and more only in episode 32 of the Pride of Nottingham PONcast!

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Notts County have claimed a 1-1 draw in Saturday's League Two encounter at Stevenage.

The Magpies fell behind at Broadhall Way through Danny Newton's 38th-minute strike, but levelled through Elliott Hewitt in the second half.

Stevenage then found themselves repelling numerous attacks from the visitors and were lucky to hold out until the final whistle and ensure a share of the spoils.

Combined with Cheltenham Town's 97th-minute equaliser in a 2-2 draw with Luton Town, the draw ensures Notts remain at the top of the table.

Here is the reaction from Notts manager Kevin Nolan, several players, and the Black and White Army following the game at Broadhall Way.

Kevin Nolan

"We could have won it and I don't think people would have been able to argue if we did. We dominated the second half.

"I was disappointed after the start we made. We were on top in the first 10-15 minutes but took our foot off the pedal a bit and let Stevenage into the game.

"They scored from a third phase from a free-kick which we gave away sloppily so we were disappointed to go in 1-0 down at half-time. We have to stop doing that.

"But we have to respect the point. I'm delighted with the squad. They are where they deserve to be."

Elliott Hewitt

"The first half wasn't good enough today. But in the second half I thought we dominated throughout.

"Maybe we deserved more, but you've got to respect the point away. It's a tough place to come, as we found out last year when we lost 3-0.

"Maybe last season we would have lost that game, starting the way we did, but all the lads stuck together.

"We've got a really good group here and got the draw."

Players on social media

The Notts fans

Nigel Nattrass: A hard-fought point, with Notts showing all the battling qualities and spirit that we’ve come to expect this season. Before the game I would’ve settled for a draw, and I suppose on the balance of things a draw was a fair result. But this was a game that Notts had the lions’ share of in terms of possession and territory, without really being able to open up the oppositions’ defence in the same way they’d done against Newport and Bristol Rovers. Chances for both sides were few and far between, but Notts had the bulk of the half-chances and with a little more incision in and around the box (perhaps with Shola Ameobi available) they may well have come home with all three points.

Stevenage are not by any means the most gifted of teams, but they are hard-working, well-organised, and play to their strengths. They are a physical side, although not exactly the dirty donkeys of a few years ago. But Notts are no shrinking violets of course, so stood up to the physical side and imposed their own game when they could. That meant the game was at times a bit niggly ( I lost count of the yellow cards but I think it was five for Stevenage and three for Notts).

I think for Terry Hawkridge and Ryan Yates this game was a touch too physical. Neither had much impact in the first half, although Hawkridge did shine a bit more after the break, playing a little further forward. In the first half he’d been playing a very rigid role, tucked in to the right of midfield, so wasn’t finding much space on the ball.

Elliot Hewitt's equaliser after about an hour came as a result of a misplaced square pass by a defender. Jorge Grant was fastest to react, collecting the loose ball and playing it inside for the onrushing Hewitt, who coolly picked his spot from just inside the box. The goal gave Notts a big lift and they went on to dominate the last 30 mins.

Grant, Stead, Brisley and Hewitt all went close to putting Notts in front, but couldn’t quite get their efforts on target under pressure from opponents.

We heard the Stevenage manager being interviewed on BBC Three Counties Radio on the way home, and he said he felt it was “a good point” for his team against a good side. No doubt Kevin Nolan is also satisfied with the performance of HIS team.

I am, too... but it's just a shame that we couldn’t turn all that possession into an extra goal. But hey ho....we’re still top of the league and we go again next weekend.

Liampie: Disappointed by the lack of performance in the first half but as Nolan says you got to respect the point. Stevenage it difficult to play for sure and they used their strikers well, I can't help but feel lucky considering their chances.

Chris: I'm also disappointed by the lack of application in the first half, and it did sound like we was considerably lucky at times not be stirring down at a defeat. Though I am delighted with the point which happened through hard work, its just one of those things which we can be thankful for because we still sit in a good position - previously this kind of result would have more concern but I guess we are writing our own luck at the minute. Stevenage clearly did their home work, so I just hope we learn to be quicker to assert our own presence over the opposition and take time to be more alert at the back (as it sounded quite poor at times). This month has some decent fixtures, it's just a shame this result wasn't better for that reason.

Upthepies: It's a good point when you think about the possible outcome. I do understand the frustration mentioned before me, we was poor in the first half but Nolan corrected this within the second half. It just goes to show that the old saying that its a game of two halves bares true. We also had a number of fantastic efforts within the second half, so either team could have won.

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Notts County have remained top of League Two thanks to a 1-1 draw away at Stevenage on Saturday afternoon.

The Magpies fell behind at Broadhall Way through Danny Newton's 38th-minute strike, but levelled through Elliott Hewitt in the second half.

Stevenage then found themselves repelling numerous attacks from the visitors and were lucky to hold out until the final whistle and ensure a share of the spoils.

Combined with Cheltenham Town's 97th-minute equaliser in a 2-2 draw with Luton Town, the draw at Broadhall Way / Lamex Stadium ensures Notts remain at the top of the table.

Relive the key moments from the game with the official Notts YouTube's match highlights.

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Notts County have been held to a 1-1 draw against Stevenage in Saturday's League Two encounter at Broadhall Way.

Danny Newton gave the hosts the lead seven minutes before the break, but Elliott Hewitt hit back for the Magpies before the hour.

Boro found themselves under pressure and had to dig deep to ensure they could hang on to a point come the final whistle.

In this Article, PON's Chris looks at how both sides played from an analytical and tactical level.

Was the result fair?

I think the result was spot on, both teams could have claimed victory but ultimately each side cancelled the other out. Whilst both clubs have suggested that they are deserving of the win, I think neither side captured the full 90 minutes and this makes the draw very fair in my opinion.

How did Notts play?

Stevenage made it very difficult for Notts within the first half, however our own problems at the back meant we struggled to assert ourselves properly and this played straight into their hands. In the second half Notts were much brighter and the confidence throughout lifted, it’s one of those Jackal type performances which needed better application within the whole game but the second half was pleasing. The draw came through hard-work more than anything, but it was a much improved second half for the Magpies.

How did Stevenage play?

As expected, they allowed their midfield and defence to break the game up. Whilst from a creative point of view their strikers never seemed out of ideas, they threatened throughout the game and had created some very good chances which should have been converted in the first half. That said, Stevenage were very physical and at times quite thuggish but they played well.

Did our tactics work out?

The issues weren’t so much tactical in the first half; it was more of a case of application on behalf of certain players. We invited the play and in turn this added pressure, but tactically we were fine – a few chances during the break on how to improve and more effort meant the tactics worked out well. Notts just needed to figure this out within the first half, as it could have been a different story had we have played how we did in the second half sooner.

How did the referee perform?

I felt he protected Stevenage more so than Notts, however he wasn’t the worst official to referee a League Two game – yet he did seem to have an home team advantage and it was equally frustrating to see fouls on our players ignored only for a softer incident to be awarded to Stevenage.

Who do we play next?

Cheltenham Town – I keep seeing fans mentioning how we have ‘winnable’ games within this month, and yes this game is one I would usually have in favour for Notts but the way I see things is that any game is one we could win. The Robins are like Stevenage, they’ll make it difficult for us and as such we need to be ready to play them and of course work harder on the field.

How should we play them?

I think if we play well the pressure will be off us, as the defenders don’t have a Matty Godden type player to deal with. We have to be confident from the off and practical within our thinking, how Notts attacks the game will be largely make things easier – as in control we will be able to keep the ball on the ground and move it wisely.

This is going to be important again, as likewise with Stevenage – Cheltenham know exactly how to play route on football. Nobody should underestimate their ability to play good football as their recent draw to Luton Town will highlight, yet there is an inconsistency to their performance and as such it’s one of those cases will they be up for it or won’t they?

I would suggest with us being top of the league at this stage it would be enough to say that they will be up for it, in which case Notts needs to be prepared and ready to highlight just how deserving we are to be in this position.

Another draw for me would be disappointing, yet if both teams play well for both halves’ I couldn’t complain – let’s just try to focus on playing solid football.

Stevenage fan views

Danny da Bass: A fair result in the end I think. Good 1st half and resilient 2nd. Smiths error was a blow but would have taken a point against the top team before the game on the back of a dire run. I though King was emence and Pett had a reasonable shift. I was happy with the back 4 line up and thought this was to nullify their physical frontline. TVC is the better CB but perhaps a little inexperienced and not so physical. Wilkes could have cost us a pen. Overall happy.

Tucks: I'd have taken it before the game. On the balance of the play I'd say they edged it but not by much so probably a fair result. Rankles a bit that we conceded from such a silly error. Poor pass back from Smith and Wilko didn't looked very interested in busting a gut to get to the ball (that may be my rose tints because I don't particularly rate Wilko mind). We're still in touching distance of the play-offs and we've taken a point off the side on top of the table at present so it could be worse.

Peanut: Agree that it's a good point but unless putting in a shift means running around looking lost and giving the ball away on the rare occasion you've actually shown for it, then Pett didn't have a good game

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So after the diversions of the FA Cup (a 4-2 win over Bristol Rovers) and the EFL Trophy (a 2-1 defeat at Lincoln City), Notts County get back to the main task of league football.

The Magpies proudly sit atop League Two and will be hoping to maintain their spot at the summit on Saturday when they take on Stevenage away.

Chris has written up a scouting report for the game and discusses how Notts should line up and approach their opponents at Broadhall Way.

History

Notts County and Stevenage have only ever met 11 times, the first meeting coming on 17 September 2011 at Broadhall Way (known as the Lamex Stadium) - the result on that day was 2-0 to the Magpies.

Our last meeting was on 4 March last season, and it proved a humbling day as Stevenage claimed a 3-0 win at Broadhall Way.

Our head-to-head record is five wins for Notts, five for Stevenage, and one draw. On a knife's edge then.

Run-down of their last six features

Saturday 30th September – Stevenage 2 Port Vale 0

Saturday 7th October – Crewe Alexandra 1 Stevenage 0

Saturday 14th October – Luton Town 7 Stevenage 1

Tuesday 17th October – Stevenage 3 Accrington Stanley 2

Saturday 21st October – Stevenage 1 Forest Green Rovers 2

Saturday 28th October – Yeovil Town 3 Stevenage 0

The Players – Fact Sheet

Highest Goal Scorers: Matt Godden 8, Danny Newton 6, Jonathan Smith 4 and Ben Kennedy 4.

Persistent Foulers: Jonathan Smith 5 yellow cards, Dale Gorman 3 yellow cards and 1 red card, Luke Wilkinson 2 yellow cards and 1 red card and Joe Martin 2 yellow cards.

The Key Players

Matt Godden is a very confident striker at this level, he enjoys working off the opposition defence and has the ability to find time within key areas due to his exceptions understanding of the game. His ability to read the game is what makes him stand out along with his natural shooting ability.

His strike partner Danny Newton is also a threat due to his knack of shooting from distance. He’s more of a standard player, yet his non-league days have aided his work-rate as he is a very hard worker both on and off the ball.

Joe Martin and Thomas Pett provide the creativity within midfield, they have goals within themselves but also are key to Stevenage’s attacks.

Style of Play, Strengths, and Weaknesses

Stevenage build using simple passing which allows them to build whilst having options to pack out in order to cause difficulty in terms of defending from an opposition point of view.

They play the ball quite well on the ground when allowed, however they can revert to route-one football and look a very capable side within the same process.

Attacking-wise they have a real time spirit, which allows them to have a good understanding on how best to use the ball.

On the ball their organisation is quite good, but when pressured at the back, the defence tends to create their own problems.

At the back they are a very physical team which can draw fouls, however they allow their midfield to be the creative side and as such defensively they are quite reliable.

I do feel that drawing free-kicks from their defenders will be a way whereby Notts can get the ball into effective areas, whilst any player confident to have a go at goal will surely have them being mindful.

Notts simply have to play the ball on the ground, move within space and just overload their back line with our pace and aerial ability.

Hoofing the ball will only play into their hands, which will allow them to dictate the tempo and take hold of the game – so we must be confident within possession and understand that they will get wary when pressure is asserted onto them from a defensive point of view.

Playing with an attacking mind will take the edge of the game and allow it to open up, so let’s hope that players such as Jorge Grant, Shola Ameobi and Matt Tootle can find the space to influence the game.

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Hello and welcome to episode 31 of the Pride of Nottingham PONcast, presented by Chris and JJ.

In this week's episode we discuss Notts County's superb win over Bristol Rovers in the first round of the FA Cup, and look ahead to the second-round tie with non-league side Oxford City.

We also assess the Magpies' exit from the EFL Trophy at the hands of Lincoln City and ask whether being knocked out of the competition is in fact a good thing, or whether Notts should have taken it more seriously.

Other topics covered include the upcoming League Two clash with Stevenage and whether Kevin Nolan - who recently said he would not be looking to play for Notts - should take to the pitch for his club at any point this season.

All this and much more in episode 31 of the Pride of Nottingham PONcast!

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Notts County put in one of their best performances in recent years in a 4-2 hammering of Bristol Rovers in Friday night's FA Cup first-round encounter.

Although the Pirates powered into a two-goal lead early on at Meadow Lane, the hosts turned it around in swashbuckling style.

Ryan Yates' quickfire brace brought Notts level in the first half before Jon Stead and Jorge Grant completed the turnaround, though it could have been more for the Magpies.

Here is the reaction from Notts manager Kevin Nolan, several players, and the Black and White Army following the superb win over the Pirates.

Kevin Nolan

“It was a magical night. I said the pressure was going to be off and it showed. We went 2-0 down and I was very disappointed to concede the goals that we did.

“But the reaction, attitude and application after that just showed our camaraderie.

“And I think some of our play showed just how hard we have been working in possession.

“What we have been doing on the training pitch we put into practice and I am delighted to be in the next round.”

Carl Dickinson

"We were gutted with the first 15 minutes but we showed what we are all about after that. We showed our togetherness, our spirit and our quality.

"It was fantastic from the boys. We reacted brilliantly. Once we got it back to 2-2 there was only going to be one winner.

With some of the football we played in the second half and the chances we created, it could have been five or six.

"To beat a team from the league above, who will be comfortable at that level, shows how far we've come.

"If we can take that type of performance into the league I don't think many teams will beat us."

The players on social media

The Black and White Army

Who r ya?? You Pies! Quality performance some truly outstanding football played , best performance for years , well done Notts , Kevin Nolan's black and white army , COYP 

Elite_pie: Agreed, brilliant game and a brilliant performance, also a great atmosphere created by the smallish crowd. We were all over the place defensively in the first 10 minutes but kept battling, and created enough chances to have gone in ahead at half time. Every player gave their all, there wasn't a single poor performer in black and white. Great stuff Notts, best tenner I've spent in ages.

Bryan Morph Morphus: What can you say?? Everything we fans need to see from a player, we got. Every one of them put a shift in. Absolute perfection....well, we could have scored a couple more but I'm not greedy!

Nicola Buxton: Fooking fantastic come back from our sexy pies...

Adam Driff Driffill: After 15 minutes. I wrote us off. Never do that again. Great result, I'll raise my drink!

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Notts County put in one of their best performances in recent years in a 4-2 hammering of Bristol Rovers at Meadow Lane on Friday night to reach the second round of the FA Cup.

The visitors had led 2-0 after the first 15 minutes thanks to goals from Liam Sercombe and Stuart Sinclair, which prompted fears of a full-blown capitulation to the League One side.

However, the Magpies rallied round in superb style as a quickfire brace from Ryan Yates edged them level by the break, setting up a second half in which the hosts really showed what they're made of.

Ultimately a further two goals, from Jon Stead and Jorge Grant, saw the Pirates knocked out of the competition, while Notts are in the hat for round two and ever closer to the hallowed third round and the hope of a tie against Premier League giants.

Here are the highlights from the game, as posted on the FA's official YouTube channel.

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Notts County put in one of the best performances in recent years in a 4-2 hammering of Bristol Rovers at Meadow Lane on Friday night to reach the second round of the FA Cup.

The visitors had led 2-0 after the first 15 minutes thanks to goals from Liam Sercombe and Stuart Sinclair to seemingly set up a long, torrid evening for the Black and White Army.

However, the Magpies rallied round as a quickfire brace from Ryan Yates edged them level by the break, setting up a second half in which the hosts had their opponents under siege.

Ultimately a further two goals, from Jon Stead and Jorge Grant, saw the League One side knocked out of the competition, while Notts are in the hat for round two.

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.

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With Notts County flying high in League Two, manager Kevin Nolan is very much the man of the moment for overseeing the transformation of a side that was previously all but certain to slip out of the Football League.

In a recent interview with The Observer, the 35-year-old spoke about a number of topics both about himself and his club.

Pride of Nottingham has taken his quotes and neatly and concisely compiled there here for you.

Should you wish to read the full interview on the Observer website, you can do so here.

On the state of Notts County when he arrived at the club

There was so much when we came in which was just not right. We didn’t have a training ground. The lads were getting changed here and then driving 20 or 30 minutes and having to come back to get showered. The pitch had not been touched for six or seven years. Changing all that has given players the belief to go: ‘Oh wow, this is an environment I want to thrive in.’”

On his career hopes

“I want to manage at the top level. I want to be part of big European nights, something I wasn’t able to do as a player, being in the Champions League. It’s so difficult now, especially for English managers. We don’t get the opportunities as much now as we did, so for me it’s just about making sure I learn my trade here. I’ve got to make sure that I pick my path right, but at this moment in time I can’t think of a better place to be.

“If we stop believing then it won’t happen. As a young English manager we’ve got to believe that there’s still room for us at the top level.”

On the transition from player to coach

“Every day you wake up wondering: ‘What’s the next thing for me?’ You can see why people end up in divorce and depressed and not in a good place. For me there’s a lot more to be done in that sense of looking after players. I was out of the game and that’s why I work so hard now: some nights I’m still here at nine o’clock because I don’t want to leave any stone unturned. I feel if I ever lose this job I know that I gave it my all.”

On his stint at Leyton Orient

"(Francesco Becchetti) should have just managed the team himself. Employing all the people he did was a disservice to football and a disservice to Leyton Orient. He wanted to tell you who’s best to play, who should have played, who shouldn’t play and ultimately that’s what cost me my job because I didn’t agree with what he wanted.”

On his coaching philosophy

“It’s quite funny because when Sam [Allardyce] gave his ultimate survival guide [for Premier League managers] on Sky Sports, I got a lot of cheeky texts saying: ‘It’s the Kevin Nolan bible!’ Everyone thinks I’m just a rigid 4-4-2 manager but I just like to stick to what I feel is best for the player. We have a system we all know but we can quite easily change to a three, or to a diamond four, because we work on it. I’m not just a straightforward: ‘This is me, I believe in it and I haven’t got a plan B, plan C.’ I feel that I have got that and whether I need to use it any time this season, time will tell. I don’t feel that I have a [particular tactical] philosophy. My first and foremost is getting a set of … I don’t like to call them rules … but a guidance of what’s expected when you walk into Notts County, what’s expected of you as a player: discipline, respect, togetherness.”

On Matt Tootle's personal issues

“It’s absolutely fantastic what he’s done to raise awareness because there is a lot of people holding back and think that it’s a weakness and it’s not. The weakness is hiding it. You’ve got to try and bring it out so people can help you. When he comes in we can talk and we can try and put him at ease or try and get him back up if he’s feeling down. It’s such a high‑pressure job. No matter if you’re playing with 3,000 people going to watch it every week, it’s pressure on you.”

On taking to the pitch for Notts

“At the minute I’m not in physical condition to play, that’s my excuse, but I don’t think I’d get in the team even if I was! Maybe you’ll see me in that black and white shirt one day, but hopefully not. That’s a last resort.”

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Notts County returned to winning ways in emphatic style thanks to a 3-0 win over Newport County in Saturday's Meadow Lane clash.

The visitors were reduced to 10 men in the 34th minute when Dan Butler was dismissed following an elbow on Matt Tootle.

The Magpies went on to take fell behind shortly afterwards when Jorge Grant slotted home from Jon Stead's pass.

Shola Ameobi then doubled the Magpies' advantage with a neat finish after 52 minutes, turning in a Grant cross.

The Nottingham Forest loanee went on to score his second of the match three minutes later when he nodded in the rebound from his own saved shot.

Grant sadly missed out on a hat-trick when his free kick rattled the woodwork, but Notts still saw out the game without a reply from Newport and, combined with Luton Town's defeat, went back to the top of League Two.

Here is the reaction from the Notts manager, several players, and the Black and White Army following the superb win over the Exiles.

Kevin Nolan

“I was delighted with the performance and we were like our old selves again. It was what we were producing when we were at the top of the league the last time. It was high tempo and we dictated the play from start to finish.

“We really made it difficult for Newport and I was delighted with the goals we scored and the clean sheet too. It could have been five, six or seven given the chances we created and I don’t think that would have flattered them.

“Before the sending off there was a bit of anxiety, but I always felt we were in control but perhaps tried to force things a bit too much at times. But we started to settle and then the sending off came. But just because they have a man sent off it doesn’t give you an automatic right to win the game.

“You have to earn it. We did that and we made them pay the price for being down to 10 men.”

Jorge Grant

“I’m really happy. It’s been five games without a goal so it was good to get three points and a clean sheet.

“We came in with an attitude of ‘we’re not going to lose this game’ and maybe in the last few weeks we have let teams come on to us - but it was the opposite and it was proved in the final score.

“We were confident. We’ve been working on being calm and composed around the box in training and picking out the final pass. We could have had a lot more than three goals.

“It was a bit disappointing not to see the free-kick go in as that would have been a hat-trick and the first one of my career, but the win was all that mattered.”

Players on social media

The fans

Who r ya?? You Pies!!: Worthy winners in the end, after a game that needed something to get it on its way, got the incident with the sending off we didn't look back after that could have maybe won by more and played some good stuff to boot, COYP back top, indeed the only way is up!

Mark Connors: All you haters need to shut up about team selection and changes he makes for other competitions - KN KNOWS what he is doing in KN we trust - ironically we won today and Mansfield drew so who got it right Tuesday - I don't care if Mansfield win at Meadow Lane in the league as long as we go up YOU PIES!

Rachel Lee: Fantastic result played really well all the team but also both Jorge and shola lets go notts let's carry on!

Darren Handley: Great to be top of the pile again but some fans still don’t care if we can’t beat Mansfield really a local derby and your not bothered,are you really a Notts fan?

Pete Cowlishaw: Great result but seriously lads, you had 21 shots on target and only stuck 3 of them away, you need to get better at finishing lol

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Notts County have returned to the summit of League Two as Jorge Grant bagged a brace in a 3-0 win over 10-man Newport County.

The 23-year-old opened the scoring in the 36th minute when he calmly slotted into the corner from inside the box after being played in by Jon Stead.

That came just three minutes after Dan Butler had seen red for catching Matt Tootle with his elbow in an aerial challenge.

Early in the second half, Shola Ameobi produced a powerful finish to double Notts' advantage.

Grant went on to score his second of the match three minutes later when he nodded in the rebound from his own saved shot.

He sadly missed out on a hat-trick when his free kick rattled the woodwork, but Notts still saw out the game without a reply from Newport and, combined with Luton Town's defeat, went back to the summit.

Here are the highlights from the game, as posted on Notts County's official YouTube channel.

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