Notts County's fine form continues after a resilient 2-0 victory over Accrington Stanley at Meadow Lane, leaving the Magpies unbeaten in five league matches and securing back-to-back wins.
The win sees them climb to second in the League Two table, a position head coach Stuart Maynard is proud of, especially in light of recent challenges, including missing two key players, Dan Crowley and Jodi Jones.
Reflecting on the game, Maynard was quick to praise the team's collective effort in defence, especially the all-important clean sheet. "I'm delighted for the clean sheet. I feel that we deserve more this season in the way that we've defended. It's not just the goalie and the backline, it's everyone putting their bodies on the line. The work ethic today was outstanding, and our counter-press was excellent," said Maynard.
The absence of Jones and Crowley, both of whom have been standout performers, could have been a major concern for County, but the head coach had faith in the squad’s depth. "I think this summer, we built a squad. We needed to make sure that when players are out injured or suspended, we’ve got the same level coming in. Jodi and Dan have been incredible for us, and their numbers are unheard of at this level. But it’s important we have a squad that can step up, and the lads who came in today did exactly that," Maynard added, highlighting the team spirit that runs through the squad.
The game was also a showcase for young talent, with George Abbott making his home debut in front of nearly 11,000 fans. Maynard was full of praise for the youngster’s composure on the ball and his understanding of the game. "He’s got a very bright future ahead of himself. His energy, his game understanding, and the way he handled the occasion was incredible for such a young lad. He played like a mature player today, and we’re very lucky to have him," remarked Maynard.
Accrington posed a threat as expected, but Maynard’s tactical preparation ensured his team was ready for the challenge. "We knew they’d come at us with a man-for-man press, so we worked tactically on how to break it, similar to how we did against Grimsby. The lads executed the game plan excellently, and I couldn’t have asked for more," he said.
David McGoldrick continued his scintillating form, netting both of County’s goals, following on from his match-winning brace against Swindon. The first goal came from a clever assist by Jacob Bedeau, an unlikely source, with Maynard emphasising the tactical foresight behind it. "We like our outside centre-halves to overload in certain games, and Jacob’s movement created space for Didzy. The finish was Premier League class, just like his last two. We’re lucky to have someone like him leading by example on and off the pitch," Maynard enthused.
McGoldrick’s second goal, albeit deflected, further underlined his importance to the team. "They all count. We wanted to leave him on for the hat-trick, but he deserved the standing ovation for his work ethic today. Off the ball, he set the tone for us, and that was a big part of keeping the clean sheet," explained the head coach.
The fans played their part too, with Meadow Lane in fine voice. "Since I’ve arrived, the fans have been incredible. They stuck with us during tough spells, and now we’re seeing the rewards of that support. It’s easy to cheer when you’re winning, but our fans back us through thick and thin," Maynard said, clearly touched by the loyalty of the Notts County faithful.
As the team continues to build momentum, Maynard remains focused on the bigger picture. "We’ve had a great start, but it’s just that – a start. Titles aren’t won in September. The lads’ work ethic has got us where we are, and we need to keep that hunger and desire," he concluded, eyes firmly set on the next challenge, a tricky away trip to Bromley.
With the squad depth and tactical nous that Maynard has brought to this Notts County side, there is a growing sense that this could be a special season for the Magpies. However, as their head coach reminds everyone, there’s still a long way to go, and the hard work must continue.
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