Alan Hardy hoping for Notts County response in crucial games against Wycombe Wanderers and Accrington Stanley

Alan Hardy is looking forward to this Easter's crucial League Two fixtures as Notts County take on two direct promotion rivals and is hoping for a response from the Magpies.

First up are Wycombe Wanderers - third in the table - at Meadow Lane on Good Friday, followed by second-placed Accrington Stanley away on Easter Monday.

Hardy admits to being nervous and also excited with regards to the ramifications that these two games will have on County's situation as the season reaches its final stages.

"Come Monday at 5pm, we will have a much clearer picture of where we stand in respect of automatic promotion," Hardy told the Nottingham Post.

"We will either have a considerable gap to close in the last five games or we will be on the coattails of Wycombe and Accrington, who we face in the coming days.

"Personally, I believe Luton and Accrington already have a foot in League One – but there is still one position very much up for grabs.

"If we can beat Wycombe we will be just one point behind them in the race for that coveted third place so it just underlines what a big game it is at Meadow Lane.

"I am experiencing a wide range of emotions, from nervousness to excitement, and I do harbour the feeling that it’s going to be an extraordinary and special afternoon.

"We are expecting a big crowd and an atmosphere which will reflect what’s at stake come 3pm.

"After losing to Chesterfield last Sunday, we are looking for a response to what was a disappointing afternoon at the Proact Stadium.

"This team has proven on more than one occasion that when they have encountered a setback, they generally respond in the right manner.

"With the season reaching its climax, we are going to need all those traits again if we are to get ourselves over the line and celebrate what would be a remarkable achievement.

"As I have said previously, being in this position was never on the agenda when we set out in the summer. But let’s enjoy the ride and the potential riches it may bring."

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