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"No One Can Handle Jones and Crowley at Their Best" – Mark Stallard on Notts County's Dynamic Duo


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Notts County correspondent and former striker Mark Stallard lauded his former club's 4-2 victory over Bromley, hailing the team's resilience and star performances from key players. 

Speaking to BBC Radio Nottingham after the game, Stallard reflected on what he described as a "typical Notts way of doing things," referencing the Magpies’ penchant for dramatic comebacks.

The game saw Notts County recover from a nightmare start, finding themselves 2-0 down within the opening seven minutes. "Over the 90-odd minutes, it was no more than they deserved, but just what a way to go about it," Stallard remarked, acknowledging the poor start but praising the team's response. "A horror first, well, 7 minutes, finding themselves 2 behind, and 3 points on their travels looked a long, long way away at that point," he added, underscoring the difficulty of the situation.

Despite the early setback, Notts County turned the match around thanks to goals from Jodi Jones, Dan Crowley, and the influential second-half introduction of Alassana Jatta. 

All three players had been mentioned in pre-match discussions with head coach Stuart Maynard, and Stallard was quick to highlight their impact on the result. "It's funny that, isn’t it? It's like they've got something about them," Stallard mused. "They're just top players. You look at Jodi and Dan Crowley particularly...if Jodi Jones and Dan Crowley play well, then nobody in this division lives with Notts County."

Stallard’s comments reflect the high regard in which both Jones and Crowley are held by the Notts County faithful, with their ability to control games making them stand out in League Two.

"They can pull the strings, they can run the show, they've scored goals, you know, 3 of the goals today," he noted. Indeed, it was Jones’ brace and Crowley’s strike that completed the turnaround, with Jatta playing a key role in the second-half resurgence.

"Also, the introduction of Alassana Jatta at half-time...what an influence he had. Very nearly scored within a minute in the build-up to the equalising goal for Dan Crowley," Stallard continued. 

His words emphasised the depth of talent available to head coach Stuart Maynard, particularly in attacking areas. "When you've got good players, and you've got a potent area of the pitch, then you have always got a chance, even when you go 2-0 down," Stallard added.

Reflecting on the early defensive lapses, Stallard admitted that Notts County could have easily been three goals down within minutes. "In truth, it could have been 3-1 to Bromley, there were chances at both ends," he said. 

He attributed the shaky start to being "caught cold a little bit" and "a little bit sloppy," with Michael Cheek capitalising on some poor defending. "Michael Cheek doing what Michael Cheek does, poaching on a cross-cum-shot," Stallard commented, before adding that a mistake from goalkeeper Alex Bass allowed Bromley to score their second goal just 90 seconds later.

However, Stallard was full of praise for Notts County’s response, noting that their attacking quality and newfound steeliness saw them through the game. "When you've got that attacking threat that Notts contain and the quality that they've got...you're always in the game," he said, before adding, "But they found a way of pulling it out, they've got a steeliness with them, it seems, this season as well."

While some fans might be tempted to get carried away with the victory propelling Notts County to the top of the League Two table, Stallard urged caution. "Doesn't matter at this stage. If they're still there in May, I’ll get really excited," he concluded.

For now, though, it’s a case of celebrating another thrilling comeback and looking ahead to the challenges that await.

tuart Maynard shares his thoughts on Notts County’s squad depth and how they’re preparing for the upcoming clash with Gillingham – check out the full article on Pride of Nottingham.

Matt Palmer’s reaction to Notts County’s 4-2 win over Bromley, his injury recovery, and what the future holds can be found exclusively on Pride of Nottingham - don’t miss out on his inspiring journey and thoughts.



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JIMBO

Posted

The glowing comments for Jodi Jones and Dan Crowley are absolutely spot on. They make it difficult for opponents to play against us. I also want to praise the defence, even though there was a slip-up and Alex Bass could have done better before we conceded the second goal. The players are looking very good as a team. It was important that we held onto Jodi and Crowley in January.

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OoooooTommy

Posted

I think when everyone in the team is playing well, we are unstoppable. Having key players who are clearly above this level is always encouraging, as it allows their quality to shine. Even David McGoldrick, at his age, is still showing both his class and experience. He’s just as important as anyone. It’s the squad that wins, draws, or loses, but it is special to have the talent of Dan Crowley and Jodi Jones among this squad.

  • Love 19
Robbie

Posted

Dan Crowley & Jodi Jones have been a revelation for Notts. They were both highly responsible for Notts scoring 89 league goals last season.

Macaulay Langstaff owed them both so much for providing him with plenty of opportunities to score last season.

It was fantastic news when Jodi signed a new three year contract at the weekend & it would really be the icing on the cake if Dan signed a new contract too.

The fact that Notts now have lots of cover in the midfield department will keep both Jodi & Dan on their toes,  but I hardly think that they will need that motivation to perform week in, week out.

The are both brilliant players to have in the side, I can't think of a pair of better creative players in the EFL. They are continuing to create chances  and score goals. Long may it continue.

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TheSkipper

Posted

I think we have relied on individual players for creativity in the past, but this squad addresses that. Cal Roberts, Dan Crowley, Jodi Jones, and David McGoldrick (Didzy especially last season during the poor form) have all been key, but it can burn players out. Now, it’s about playing the right way, and the praise for how well Notts are playing is well-deserved. I like that Stall isn’t getting carried away, because that’s important, and sensible fans won’t either. We have to see what Gillingham brings, but as I keep saying, the signs are positive, and the depth we have is filled with players with different qualities.

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NiftyNick

Posted

Jodi and Dan were immense in the comeback. Their quality is unmatched in this league. Brilliant teamwork overall!

  • Like 15
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Countyman

Posted

Jodi Jones and Dan Crowley are the heart and soul of this Notts County squad. Their determination and skill were evident as they spearheaded the comeback against Bromley. Jones’ quick feet and sharp instincts in front of goal make him a constant menace for defenders. Crowley's intelligent play and work rate provide a solid foundation for our attacks. Stallard's comments about their abilities are spot on. These two are the kind of players who can change the outcome of a match in an instant. It’s thrilling to have such talents in our team. Let’s hope they continue to inspire and lead us to more victories this season.

  • Love 19
upthepies

Posted

Stall’s praise for Jones and Crowley is thoroughly deserved. Watching them orchestrate the dramatic turnaround against Bromley was a testament to their class. Jones’ brace showcased his killer instinct, while Crowley’s composure in crucial moments made all the difference. Their partnership on the pitch seems almost telepathic at times. This dynamic duo is crucial for Notts County’s success. It’s impressive to see how they lift the team’s overall performance, ensuring we always have a fighting chance, even when the odds are against us. Keeping this momentum and not getting complacent will be key as we aim for promotion.

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Sir Magpie

Posted

Initially, it looked bleak with Notts going down 2-0 within mere minutes. However, the players’ unyielding spirit shone through, particularly Jodi Jones and Dan Crowley. Jones, with his impeccable dribbling and pace, constantly posed a threat to the opposition. Crowley, on the other hand, showcased his knack for finding and exploiting spaces, threading passes that left defenders perplexed. Their tenacity was a sight to behold, a true spectacle for the fans.

Jodi’s brace and Crowley’s pivotal goal not only changed the course of the match but also highlighted their importance to the team. The introduction of Alassana Jatta in the second half added an extra layer of firepower, making the squad's attacking front almost unstoppable. This victory, while exhilarating, is a reminder of the competition's unpredictability. Nonetheless, with players like Jones and Crowley leading the charge, Notts County certainly have the tools to dominate. The key now is consistency and ensuring these performances are replicated week in, week out.

  • Love 18
liampie

Posted

they are both players whos class can elevate the players around them and when the whole squad is one the same wave length, most teams will struggle. its encouraging how teams are finding us harder to play against, not that those 6 minutes would help my comment but the moment jodi scored the penalty it was clear that we do. i like mark stallards comments, as he speaks from the heart but comes out unbiasedly. very professional!

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BromPie

Posted

t’s wonderful to see players like Jodi Jones and Dan Crowley thriving. Their performances against Bromley were nothing short of spectacular. Jones’ two-goal display and Crowley's influential strike underscored their importance to the team. The way they turned the game around showed not just skill but immense character. Stallard’s insights reflect what many of us feel - these players are special. It’s also encouraging to have depth in the squad with talents like Jatta coming off the bench. We need to build on this win and strive for consistency if we are to achieve our ambitions this season.

  • Like 5
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NottsTastic

Posted

It’s always exciting to see such a resilient comeback. Jones and Crowley really made the difference. Well done, Notts!

  • Like 15
KingMaynard

Posted

Our attacking options are just lethal. Jodi Jones and Dan Crowley are playing on another level. Keep it up lads!

  • Like 18
Sirrels County

Posted

The match against Bromley was a perfect illustration of why Jodi Jones and Dan Crowley are so highly regarded. Despite the shaky start, their brilliance shone through, turning the game on its head. Jones’ agility and Crowley’s vision create a formidable duo. Their ability to change the game so decisively is something every team desires. Also, the impact of substitutes like Alassana Jatta reinforces the depth and quality within the squad. Notts County’s attacking potential is immense, and it’s this kind of performance that gives fans hope for a successful season. Credit to Stallard for his honest and insightful analysis post-match.

  • Love 9


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