Notts County Fan Tony Poppa Bear Wood Shares His Story

Tony Poppa Bear Wood has been a Notts County fan for around 39-40 years. Born in Beeston, Nottingham, he grew up watching football as a child. His love for Notts County began when his Grandad took him to his first game at the age of 3 or 4. "Back then it was an all-standing ground and I remember my grandad smoking his pipe and the smell. And from that day on, I was hooked on Notts County Football Club," he says.

Tony's favourite memory as a Notts County fan is the Warnock era and the two back-to-back promotions via the playoffs. He went to both finals at the old Wembley. Standout matches include the FA Cup against Tottenham when Don O'Riordan scored the free kick. "Although we lost the game it still was a fantastic game," he says.

Over the years, Tony has seen Notts County evolve. "Fans are very fickle; one week they are moaning because we lose, the next week they are shouting the praises of the team for winning," he says. He believes that Notts should do more of a free meet and greet with the squad.

When asked what makes Notts County stand out from other teams in the league, Tony points to Luke Williams and Macauley Langstaff. "I think Luke Williams has made a massive impact on the team; we have heart, soul and passion and come together as a squad. Not forgetting Macauley Langstaff; what an absolute player he is," he says.

Looking to the future, Tony is optimistic about Notts County's chances in the upcoming season. "I am really glad we gained promotion back to League 2 and gain our status back," he says. He believes that if they can keep hold of their current squad with a few new additions and keep gaining momentum, they can finish in the top half of League 2 and maybe even gain another promotion.

Being a Notts County fan has even helped Tony through tough times in his life. "It was about 8 or 9 years ago, and I was rushed into hospital with double pneumonia and was in a coma; Notts County sent me a get-well card signed by all the players and manager at that time. And will never forget that," he shares.

Tony's favourite Notts County chant or song is either Macauley Langstaff's song or Kyle Cameron's song, as well as Super Lukey Williams' song with "We know exactly what we need: Cameron at the back and Macca in attack."

If he could say one thing to the players or coach, it would be: "Go out there and play real football; stop passing the ball back to the keeper... Attack is the best form of defence." He would also tell Aaron Nemane to run at players.

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