Matty Platt, Notts County’s 27-year-old central defender, was thrilled after his side’s hard-fought 1-0 victory over AFC Wimbledon at Meadow Lane.

Not only did Platt’s header secure the win, but it also ended the club’s two-match winless streak at home, delivering both a crucial three points and a clean sheet.

Speaking after the game, Platt expressed his joy at what he described as the perfect outcome. "Yes it is, it was a tough game to be fair today. I think Wimbledon came and made it difficult for us at times, especially in the first half," he noted.

Notts County had been eager to avoid conceding the first goal again, particularly after their previous home results followed a similar pattern. 

Platt acknowledged that their first-half performance was far from ideal but emphasised the importance of remaining defensively solid during periods when they weren't at their best.

"At times in the first half we weren't at our best, but I think especially us at the back, we were thinking, just keep it tight, keep it at 0-0," he explained, adding, "and then we know at some point things are going to change and we're going to grow into the game."

The first half, characterised by a lack of clear-cut opportunities for both sides, was described by Platt as a "slow burner." He stressed the team’s focus on maintaining their defensive shape during such a tense period, knowing that they would eventually find their rhythm.

"We just didn't want to concede any sloppy goals in that first half because when the game is probably not, as you say, free-flowing, there's not many chances, you just want to keep it tight," he said.

The match's pivotal moment came in the 67th minute when Platt rose to meet Matty Palmer’s corner, securing the game’s only goal.

Reflecting on his goal, Platt admitted that it wasn’t the cleanest strike but was nonetheless delighted. "I'll take anything that I can get to be fair," he said with a smile.

"We've been trying a lot of in-swingers this season and I think we just thought today we'd mix it up a little bit, go with a little bit of an out-swinger," Platt revealed, describing the tactical tweak that led to his goal.

He continued, "The first one he [Palmer] did I got on the end of it, and I just felt like there was a bit of something there for us, so I just told him to keep doing it, and thankfully one went in for us."

The goal, which travelled through a crowd of players, left Wimbledon’s goalkeeper stranded.

Platt credited teammates David McGoldrick and Alassana Jatta for distracting the goalkeeper. "I think Didzy and Ajay have gone for it and that's probably put the keeper off a little bit," he speculated. 

There was a moment of confusion during the goal celebration when the stadium announcer credited the goal to McGoldrick.

However, Platt was confident it was his. "I was a bit confused when he said that because I was pretty sure it was mine. I was 90% sure it was mine," Platt recalled, laughing off the mix-up. 

Having already scored once away this season, Platt expressed his happiness at scoring at Meadow Lane." It's always something that I try and add to the game," he said.

Referring to his ambitions as a centre-half to contribute more goals. With two goals to his name early in the season, Platt is aiming for more. "As the centre-half, I'm trying to get 4 or 5, you know, 6 a season, and to get 2 pretty early on is good."

Looking ahead, Platt is eager to continue the club’s positive start to the season.

"I think we've had a pretty good start," he said, reflecting on recent results. "It was important today to get back to winning ways, and we look forward to Barrow midweek."

With his goal securing a much-needed win, Platt's performance will undoubtedly give Notts County a boost as they aim to maintain their momentum in the coming fixtures.

Don’t miss Stuart Maynard’s thoughts on Notts County’s hard-fought win over AFC Wimbledon! Read the full interview now on Pride of Nottingham and share your comments – we’d love to hear what you think!

Check out our match report on Notts County’s 1-0 win over AFC Wimbledon! Share your thoughts on the key moments and join the established feedback on Pride of Nottingham. Have your say and be part of the conversation!

Notts County head coach Stuart Maynard lauded his side's determination after their hard-fought 1-0 victory over AFC Wimbledon at Meadow Lane.

Despite admitting it wasn’t the most fluent of performances, Maynard emphasised the importance of securing the three points in a physically challenging game.

The win came courtesy of Matty Platt’s header from a set-piece in the 67th minute, propelling Notts County to joint third in League Two.

Maynard was quick to highlight the resilience and discipline his team displayed, particularly when facing an AFC Wimbledon side renowned for their defensive solidity." AFC Wimbledon, Johnny’s team, they’re very hard to beat, they make it very difficult for you, they make the game ugly," he said.

"We weren’t at our fluent best. It’s probably been our worst performance at home in the sense of moving the ball, creating overloads, creating clear opportunities, but we showed again our grit and our determination to win the game of football."

The match itself wasn’t one for the purists, with Maynard admitting it might not be enjoyable to re-watch.

"I think it’ll be one that when we watch back, it won’t be easy on the eye. But we knew that before the game. We said to the lads, this might be a different type of game today. We might not be able to win it by opening them up freely," he reflected. 

With five clean sheets to their name prior to this encounter, AFC Wimbledon were never going to be easy to break down, and Maynard was particularly pleased with his side’s defensive display, emphasising the importance of clean sheets in achieving long-term success.

"They had five clean sheets before today, which is incredible at this stage of the season," he noted. "Clean sheets bring you real success, and that’s why I’m so pleased with the clean sheet today."

The decisive goal came from a well-worked set-piece, an area that Maynard credited his coaching staff for diligently preparing.

"To get a goal from a set-piece, Craig Saunders [our set-piece coach] has been working so hard on them. We’ve been close from so many, and today it’s a huge credit to him because in the fine margins of the game, his detail that he puts into the lads gets us to win."

While the match-winner may have been somewhat scrappy, Maynard recognised the importance of such goals in tight contests.

"In tight games like this, you need the set-piece goals," he explained. "They’re the little small margins that you work on all week, and they’re very hard to score from because everyone’s set up against you."

Goalkeeper Alex Bass also earned praise for his calm and composed display, making several key saves to ensure Notts County kept their lead intact.

"Bassy the goalie, he just makes you so calm," Maynard said. "He makes a lot of the shots that are difficult look so easy. He’s got glue in his gloves, I think."

Looking ahead, Maynard acknowledged the demanding schedule, with a midweek trip to Barrow next on the agenda.

"That’s what the squad’s for. We’ve got to look at Barrow now. Our full focus was on AFC Wimbledon. We’ll see where the bodies are at tomorrow and come up with a game plan ready for it," he said.

Despite the unconvincing performance, Maynard was delighted to secure a vital home win and praised the fans for their continued support. "It’s something we want to make this place a fortress. The crowd have been incredible," he added.

"Even today again, getting behind the boys in the 96th minute, urging them on. We feel we’ve rewarded them today with a performance that was grit, determination, and the lads have left everything out there."

With their latest victory, Notts County remain well positioned in the promotion hunt, and Maynard will hope his side can continue to build on their momentum as they push towards the top of the League Two table.

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Notts County head coach Stuart Maynard has emphasised the need for his side to be more clinical as they prepare to face AFC Wimbledon at Meadow Lane.

Maynard's team, currently sitting in third place and occupying an automatic promotion spot in League Two, will be aiming to build on their solid away form after a 2-2 draw against local rivals Chesterfield.

Speaking in a pre-match interview, Maynard highlighted that while his team has been creating plenty of goal-scoring opportunities, the lack of finishing in crucial moments has been a source of frustration.

"If you look at the chances that we've created, they're big, big chances," he explained. "If you give a player probably nine of them, they probably take seven or eight of them. They're not half chances."

Maynard acknowledged that Notts have shown plenty of attacking intent, but converting those chances into goals has been the missing link.

"In the Gillingham and Port Vale games, we've created big, big moments that should be goals," Maynard said. "We need to make sure that we're composed in the final third and take our big chances because they're moments that change games."

Despite the team's strong attacking displays, Notts County have struggled to score at home in recent matches, something Maynard isn't overly concerned about.

"We're a free-flowing team that scores goals if you look at the amount of goals we've scored this season," he pointed out.

"We never like to look at refereeing decisions, even though they played a major factor within some games. We've got to take those away and solely focus on ourselves."

When asked about whether a goal drought at home could weigh on the players, Maynard remained confident in his side's ability to bounce back.

"It's one of those games. We've created threes and fours [in terms of chances], so it's not like we're struggling. We just need that composure to take our chances."

Looking ahead to the match against AFC Wimbledon, Maynard knows his team will face a tough test.

The Dons have boasted one of the strongest defensive records in the division, but Maynard is optimistic that Notts' attacking approach can break them down.

"When we played Gillingham earlier in the season, they had only conceded two goals, and it was a similar conversation. I believe the structure we work in and the way we look at the opposition to try and open them up will create chances."

Maynard also praised his players' mentality when it comes to away fixtures, where they’ve performed particularly well.

"Every game we go into, we want to win, whether it's home or away," he stated. "We're not a team that goes away thinking a point is a good result. We've been very unfortunate at home, but we know how important our home form will be this season."

The coach gave a brief update on the squad’s fitness, with most players close to returning, though long-term injuries remain a frustration.

"Our long-term players are still out, but we're pretty much getting back to a full squad, which is good for us. It gives us a headache as a management team, but those are the headaches we want."

Finally, addressing concerns about Notts County conceding first in recent matches, Maynard was quick to downplay any worries.

"I believe we always come out on the front foot and create the first big moments in games. Chesterfield's goal last week was very lucky, but our intent to get that first goal is always there. If we get it, I believe we can go on and win games of football."

As Notts County prepares for the visit of AFC Wimbledon, the message from Maynard is clear: it’s all about taking chances and maintaining focus.

With both teams having something to prove, the Meadow Lane crowd will be hoping their side can get back to their winning ways at home.

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Read Rod McDonald's thoughts on his return to action, his potential league debut, and how he’s overcome his pre-season injury to help Notts push for promotion!

Notts County defender Rod McDonald has spoken about his frustration at the start of his time with the Magpies following his summer move from Harrogate Town.

The experienced 32-year-old centre-back joined on a two-year deal but is yet to make a league appearance due to an injury that side-lined him for several weeks.

McDonald, however, is set to make his league debut against AFC Wimbledon today and is eager to finally get on the pitch and help his new side push forward.

Reflecting on his first months with the club, McDonald shared how his initial time at Meadow Lane didn’t go as planned. "It’s always a bit frustrating when you come into a new place and want to hit the ground running," McDonald explained.

"For me, it was completely the opposite. I had the newborn baby when the boys went on a trip to Holland, so I didn’t go. Then, literally on the money, I came back and twisted my knee – just caught it. It had a little tweak in it, and it put me out for about eight to ten weeks."

McDonald’s absence came at a crucial time, but he has tried to look on the bright side, particularly appreciating the unexpected family time. "Sometimes stuff works in mysterious ways," he said.

"I’ve never really spent as much time with my kids as I have recently, so it’s been brilliant to be fair. Got a couple of grey hairs for it."

Despite his injury, McDonald noted how supportive everyone at the club has been during his recovery. "The lads were brilliant with me. It’s always difficult to try and mix in with a new club when you’ve got an injury," he said.

"The gaffer, Matt, and Richard have all been brilliant. They basically said, 'We know what you can do, just make sure you get yourself right and fit, and when you’re back, you’re back.'"

Now fully fit, McDonald has featured in a few EFL Trophy matches this season but admits he’s itching for league action. "I’ve come here to play in the league, not the EFL Trophy – no disrespect to it," McDonald stated.

"My focus is on playing in the league this season, and obviously I’ve got some stiff competition, but that’s what football is all about."

McDonald also praised the performances of his defensive teammates during his time on the side-lines. "All the boys have gelled really well together," he said. 

"Young lad Louis Macari, I think he’s been excellent this season. Matty Platt, Jacob Bedeau, and even Rob Cundy when he stepped in – I think all the boys at the back have been brilliant. And Bassey’s been brilliant as well."

Looking ahead to the game against AFC Wimbledon, McDonald shared his thoughts on facing his former club, where he had an enjoyable spell. "It’s a great club to be at," McDonald said.

"We had one of the best FA Cup runs there, beating West Ham and getting Millwall. It was a great time on and off the pitch – the staff, players, and the people behind the scenes there are tremendous, and the fans are great."

However, McDonald made it clear that his focus is solely on securing three points for Notts County this weekend. "It’ll be nice to see them do well, but obviously not this weekend," he added with a smile.

With Notts County looking to bounce back at home following recent frustrations, McDonald is determined to help his team keep a clean sheet.

"You always want to win your home games, especially if you want to get promoted out of this league," he said. "Hopefully this weekend, we can score a couple of goals and try to keep a clean sheet."

For McDonald, today’s game represents a long-awaited opportunity to show what he can do in a Notts County shirt, and he is ready to make his mark on the pitch. At 32, his experience will be vital as the Magpies push for promotion this season.

Share your pre-match predictions and get involved in the live discussion as Notts County take on AFC Wimbledon today.

Read about Cedwyn Scott's leave of absence and leave a message of support, showing we're united in encouraging him to prioritise his mental health.

Notts County head coach Stuart Maynard has expressed his full support for forward Cedwyn Scott, who has been granted a leave of absence due to ongoing struggles with depression.

The 25-year-old player, who has endured a difficult period on and off the pitch, has been lauded by his manager for his bravery in openly discussing his mental health.

Maynard, speaking ahead of Notts County’s clash with AFC Wimbledon at Meadow Lane, revealed that Scott’s battle has been ongoing for some time. "He’s been struggling for a while, Ceds," Maynard admitted.

"He’s had a very difficult time, and even if you go back to last season with his injury, being out for most of the season, footballers want to play. It’s a release in a sense, playing week in, week out on the pitch in front of the fans. I think Ceds has struggled for a while, and we’ve been talking about it, but as a football club, we support him and back him. The key thing is supporting and backing him."

Maynard emphasised the importance of Scott’s decision to come forward and speak about his mental health, acknowledging how much courage it takes to do so in an environment like professional football.

"It’s huge credit to himself to be able to come out and talk about it because it’s a massive strength. I feel that we, as a football club and a management team, we’re a supportive club. We talk to our players a lot about lots of things because we want to make sure that if you’re happy off the pitch, when you come into work it’s got to be a good environment. Then you perform to the best of your ability."

The Notts County manager stressed the role of the club in creating a positive, open atmosphere where players feel comfortable discussing their personal challenges.

"We’re always talking to the players and making sure they’re okay on and off the pitch. It’s a huge credit to Ceds to be able to come out and openly talk about it. We wish him the best, and we’re supporting him in every way we can to make sure we get him right and back enjoying his football as soon as possible."

Scott, who has struggled with injuries in the past, has faced the difficulty of being sidelined, a challenge that many footballers find isolating. "It’s a lonely place when you get injured, especially long-term injuries," Maynard explained.

"Initially, you’re around the group, but then you end up with different rehab programmes, whether it’s gym sessions or not being out on the grass for a long period of time, so it’s very lonely. People think it’s always a team environment, but it’s very different for a player who’s not able to train and be close to the group."

When asked about the resources available to players like Scott, Maynard reassured fans that the club is doing everything possible to help him during this challenging time.

"There are means in place to support him and get him help with a counsellor. The PFA (Professional Footballers' Association) has been very good and supportive as well. There are lots of channels that you can gain support from, but the biggest thing is admitting it and wanting help, and that’s what’s brilliant with Ceds. He’s admitted he’s struggling, and now he can get the help."

Despite the setback, Maynard remains confident that Scott will return to football stronger and ready to contribute.

"We back him. We know he’s a top player and that he’ll be influential for us when he comes back, but there’s no pressure. We’ve just got to support him in the right way, and he’ll be back when he’s ready. There’s no timescale for us."

As Notts County prepares for their upcoming match, the focus remains on providing support for Scott.

The club, in line with Maynard’s vision, is committed to ensuring that their players’ well-being comes first, both on and off the pitch.

Be sure to leave your thoughts on tomorrow's game at Meadow Lane against AFC Wimbledon in the Match Discussion on Pride of Nottingham.

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Notts County battled to a 2-2 draw against Chesterfield at the SMH Group Stadium, in a thrilling encounter that saw the visitors twice come from behind.

The match, played on October 12, 2024, was a display of determination and grit from the Magpies, as they extended their unbeaten away record in League Two.

Chesterfield made a flying start, opening the scoring in just the 6th minute. A deflected ball fell kindly to Paddy Madden, who made no mistake from close range, leaving Notts County goalkeeper, Alex Bass, with no chance.

Reflecting on the early setback, Notts County head coach Stuart Maynard commented: "If you look at their first goal, it comes out of nothing. The first 10 minutes of the game, I thought we showed real control on measuring silence to the crowd, which was the game plan."

Despite the early blow, Notts County responded quickly, and in the 14th minute, Alassana Jatta levelled the score, converting a cross from George Abbott.

Maynard praised Abbott’s versatility, saying, "George was excellent. When we brought him in, we knew he could play a number of positions, and today at right wing-back, his level of performance was outstanding."

The game continued to ebb and flow, with both sides creating chances. However, it was Chesterfield who regained the lead in the 74th minute when Will Grigg headed in from a corner, punishing Notts County's defence from a set-piece.

Maynard admitted his frustration at conceding from a dead-ball situation: "It's disappointing for us to concede from a set piece because I think we defend our box very well now."

Notts County, though, refused to give up. With time running out, they earned a penalty deep into stoppage time after a Chesterfield defender handled the ball inside the area.

David McGoldrick stepped up to take the spot-kick, but his initial effort was saved. However, McGoldrick quickly redeemed himself, scoring on the rebound to secure a point for his side.

Maynard was full of praise for McGoldrick's composure under pressure. "Look, Didzy to have the minerals to step up in at that late stage of the game, knowing that really is kind of the last kick of the game, that's what Didzy can do."

McGoldrick's impact was felt throughout, with Maynard adding, "You've just seen the impact he's had when he comes on the pitch."

The draw was a testament to Notts County's resilience, particularly on the road, where they have proven difficult to beat.

Maynard acknowledged this strength: "Unbeaten in any record in this league is very tough, especially on the road, and it's something that we said this season we want to make sure, especially on the road, that we're very tough to beat."

Notts County's travelling fans, who turned up in numbers, played a significant role in pushing the team forward.

"I thought the fans were incredible again. Even though they've sold out today, you can hear our fans from minute 1 all the way through," Maynard said, appreciating the support.

As the match concluded, Maynard reflected on the importance of keeping the momentum going. Despite not starting both McGoldrick and Jatta together, their link-up play late in the game was a positive takeaway for the head coach.

"Of course, they can play together; they're top players. It’s about picking the right games and the right tactics," he concluded.

The 2-2 draw leaves Notts County looking to build on their strong start to the season, as they continue to push for promotion in what promises to be a fiercely competitive League Two campaign.

With performances like this, showcasing both resilience and skill, they remain a formidable force in the division.

George Abbott has been named our Man of the Match from yesterday's 2-2 draw against Chesterfield. Wish the young midfielder well and share your thoughts on his performance.

Read George Abbott's thoughts on yesterday's 2-2 draw and his first East Midlands derby, and don't forget to comment with your views.

Notts County's young defensive midfielder, George Abbott, recently took part in his first East Midlands derby, and it proved to be a memorable occasion for the 19-year-old on loan from Tottenham Hotspur.

Abbott, who has made eight appearances for Notts County, was visibly energised by the derby experience and the electric atmosphere created by both sets of fans.

“Yeah, it was unbelievable to be fair,” he said. “The crowd were proper up for it today from both sides. I mean, it was a big game for both teams, and I think we both played pretty well.”

In a game where Notts County initially fell behind, Abbott praised the resilience shown by his teammates in fighting back.

“They obviously started well, and we went behind early on, which is not ideal,” he noted, “but we showed character to come back, and it ended up being a very good game.”

Abbott's versatility on the pitch has been a key asset for Notts County. Although he’s primarily a defensive midfielder, he’s been deployed in various roles, even taking up an unfamiliar position out on the right.

“Not too much,” Abbott admitted when asked if he frequently plays wide right. “But I mean, I can play there. I can play quite a few positions, so wherever the gaff wants to put me, I'll play there.”

In fact, it was from his position on the right that Abbott delivered an impressive cross, setting up teammate Alassana Jatta for a headed goal. Describing the moment, Abbott shared, “When I played it to Dan, I was just thinking about getting in behind the defender, so Dan could slide me. I saw that he was quite close to me, and he was going to slide, so I just dinked it over him, over the keeper, and it was a great header from Jatta.”

The assist, his first in Notts County colours, clearly meant a lot to the young midfielder. “Hopefully the first of many, but it felt unbelievable getting the assist, and I’m really happy about it.”

Abbott was also quick to acknowledge the influence of his teammates, particularly Kellan Gordon, who shared his attacking intent.

“Kellan was playing unbelievable against his man. He was always getting past and getting the cross in, and so was I on the right-hand side. So I mean, it was good to have both wing-backs being able to do that and make so many chances from it.”

The significance of the rivalry between Notts County and their opponents wasn’t lost on Abbott either.

With a hint of appreciation for the history and passion of the clash, he said, “You could tell this meant a lot more than the other games I’ve played in. All the games mean something, but this was… it was good to come back and get the draw.”

Reflecting on a second-half substitution, Abbott provided insight into the unpredictability of football.

“My number wasn’t up at first, and the guy put it up, and I was a bit confused. I think it was meant to be someone else coming off,” he recounted. “But it was all good. I was watching from the dugout, and it was great that Didzy [McGoldrick] followed up on the penalty.”

In what has already been a significant loan spell, Abbott is clearly focused on helping Notts County improve and climb the League Two table.

Away from home, the team is unbeaten in six, and Abbott is confident that improvements at Meadow Lane will further boost their chances.

“It’s a big thing that away from home we’re doing so well in picking up the points,” he said. “As soon as we sort out our games at Meadow Lane, I think we’ll be flying.”

With a quarter of the season gone, Abbott is optimistic about the future. “We’re doing pretty well, so I mean, if we get the home games sorted out, then I think we’ll be flying, and, so we’ll make it to the top of the table.”

And as for his first EFL goal? Abbott is hopeful it’s not far off, saying, “Hopefully soon, and hopefully that’ll be the next time you’re interviewing me.”

In just eight appearances, George Abbott has already shown his adaptability, his enthusiasm for the club, and his dedication to helping Notts County succeed.

As he continues to make strides in his loan spell, fans can look forward to many more key contributions from this promising young talent.

Don't forget to cast your vote for Man of the Match from yesterday's 2-2 draw away at Chesterfield over on the Pride of Nottingham forum poll!

Head over to Pride of Nottingham to read our match report on the 2-2 draw against Chesterfield and share your thoughts on the key moments.

Notts County head coach Stuart Maynard has addressed the media ahead of the highly anticipated away fixture against Chesterfield this weekend.

The Magpies will be eager to bounce back from their 1-0 defeat to Port Vale, while Chesterfield, currently sitting 12th in League Two, earned a 2-2 draw against league leaders Walsall. 

Maynard offered insight into the squad's fitness, the intensity surrounding the game, and the significance of having key players like David McGoldrick and Rod McDonald back in contention.

He also acknowledged the emotional build-up to the match, as it marks the first time the two sides have met since last season’s thrilling promotion play-off final at Wembley.

Maynard provided an encouraging update on the fitness of David McGoldrick, who has been side-lined for the past couple of games.

“David’s back in contention for selection, which is great news for us,” Maynard said, acknowledging the importance of McGoldrick’s performances so far this season.

“His performance levels this year have been excellent, and some of the goals that he’s scored for us out of nothing have been incredible. Some of the finishes have been right up there with the top end of Premier League football.”

McGoldrick’s availability is a boost, given his ability to create moments of magic and change the course of a game.

His return will add firepower to an attack that has been frustrated at times, particularly in the home defeats this season.

Maynard also discussed the progress of defender Rod McDonald, who recently returned to action.

“Rod’s in contention, and it was great to see him get through 90 minutes, which is important for him and for us.” However, Maynard exercised caution with centre-back Lucas Ness, who also featured midweek in the EFL Trophy defeat to Northampton Town.

“We’ve just got to manage him and make sure nothing else happens injury-wise. When you come back from long-term injuries, you can pick up little niggles, and we want to make sure that doesn’t happen with Ness.”

Saturday’s clash with Chesterfield comes with added significance, while the fans are understandably focused on the rivalry and the history between the clubs, Maynard remains clear-headed.

“There’s a real excitement about the place, you can feel it, but for us as a management team, it’s another game we’re looking to win and come away with three points.”

While Maynard is keen to keep his players focused, he acknowledged the magnitude of the occasion.

“The players will know the magnitude of what’s gone on in the past, but we’re solely focused on ourselves within the game. It’s going to be an incredible atmosphere, and we know our away fans will come and be loud and get behind the players. We’re really looking forward to it.”

Reflecting on Notts County’s season so far, Maynard pointed to consistency as the primary goal.

“I’ve always said this league will be tight throughout the season, and I think there are probably 14 to 16 clubs that believe they can get promoted this year.”

He praised the consistency of his team, despite recent home frustrations. “We’ve created more opportunities than the opposition in the games we’ve lost, but we’ve not been clinical in key moments.”

Maynard also touched on the contrast between home and away form, with the Magpies remaining unbeaten on the road.

“At home, teams sit in a low block, which can be difficult to break down when you go behind. Away from home, teams tend to open up a bit more, which suits us and makes it easier to go through them.”

Despite Chesterfield being a newly promoted side, Maynard refused to underestimate them. “They’ve invested well in the summer and have quality at the top end of the pitch.

They’re not here just to stabilise, they want to be at the top end of the division.” Having faced Chesterfield multiple times during his days at Wealdstone, Maynard is fully aware of the threat they pose. “We know it’s going to be a really tough game.”

With the Magpies currently 5th in League Two, Maynard’s focus on consistency and managing the emotions surrounding this derby could prove pivotal as they aim to climb the table.

The return of key players like McGoldrick and McDonald will undoubtedly strengthen their chances, but Maynard is clear, this is just another game to win.

Notts County captain, Matt Palmer, says he's ready for a tough game today against Chesterfield. Read his thoughts on the game here and add your opinion in the comments.

Be sure to update the Pride of Nottingham match discussion with your thoughts throughout the Derby Day clash away to Chesterfield, let PON know your thoughts!

Notts County captain Matt Palmer recently shared his thoughts on some of the most memorable moments of his career, the challenges of integrating new players into the squad, and his return from injury.

The 29-year-old midfielder, who has made nine appearances this season, reflected on the highs of the club’s dramatic play-off victory against Chesterfield, while also touching on the challenges that lie ahead as the team aims for continued success.

When asked about his memories of the play-off final against Chesterfield, Palmer was quick to describe it as one of the best moments of his career.

"It still lives along in the memory," he began. "It's one of the best moments of my career so far." He went on to recall the early drama of the match, saying, "I remember lining up on the goal line after probably like five minutes, and we’ve just conceded an indirect free kick in our own box and was thinking, 'What's going on here?' But in the end, it all worked out really well."

That day, despite a season of dominance, was filled with nerve-wracking moments, but Palmer ultimately described it as "brilliant" and a highlight of his career.

Palmer also reflected on the emotional release that came when Cedwyn Scott scored the decisive penalty.

"I've said to the people close to me that you sometimes don't remember, I don't really remember a lot of the bits straight after." He noted that while photos captured the jubilation, his memory of the celebrations is hazy, other than recalling "going mad" with teammates.

Despite the pressure of the play-off games, Palmer was relieved he didn't have to take a penalty, as he admitted, "My record at penalties is not great... I missed quite a few penalties, and I missed in the FA Trophy that season as well."

Turning to the current season, Palmer acknowledged the significant turnover in the squad since that memorable play-off final, noting that only he and Sam Austin remain from the starting 11 that day.

"Especially this season, the amount of players that have come in and gone out has been a big turnover," he said.

"It's still early days in this current season, everyone's still getting used to each other." While the team has started well, Palmer recognises that there is still work to be done as the squad continues to gel, adding, "It takes time to get used to everyone."

On a personal level, Palmer opened up about his return from injury and how he’s relished getting back into the starting line-up. "I'm obviously loving being back," he said.

"I've built up game by game... It was a long time out, and I think if anyone was in any type of job, if you're not doing it for nine months, there's going to be a bit of time when you're going to have to get back used to things."

Palmer acknowledged the challenges of regaining match fitness after such a long absence, but credited the club's coaching and physio staff for helping him get back to his best.

As captain, Palmer doesn’t feel the armband has changed his approach too much. "I wouldn't say it's changed me because I tried to come in every day, even before I was captain, and give my best," he explained.

Rather than being a vocal leader, Palmer sees himself as someone who leads by example. He added, "I'm more of a person who leads by example, so I'm just sort of carrying on doing the same."

Looking ahead to the remainder of the season, Palmer is optimistic but pragmatic about the squad's potential.

"I think for sure we're still a team... in transition, maybe," he said, highlighting the many new signings and the process of getting everyone on the same page tactically.

Despite the positive results so far, Palmer believes the squad can still improve, pointing to the recent home games as examples.

"I don't feel like we're far off from becoming a very good team, and obviously, that's something that we're going to keep on working at."

With an upcoming derby against Chesterfield, Palmer knows it will be a tough game but is confident in his team's ability. "It's going to be a tough challenge but one we're all looking forward to, and obviously, we'll be going there for the win."

Share your thoughts in the Pride of Nottingham's match discussion for this weekend's game against Chesterfield. It's derby day and PON encourages you to share your thoughts with us.

Pride of Nottingham member, Robbie, asks "Should players be given more protection" - a discussion sparked by injuries which have effected Notts and other clubs.

Following a narrow 1-0 defeat to Port Vale at Meadow Lane, Notts County manager Stuart Maynard shared his frustrations, citing strong performance levels and questionable officiating as contributing factors in a match where Lorent Tolaj’s first-half goal proved decisive.

Reflecting on the game, Maynard expressed frustration with the outcome, particularly in light of his team’s early energy.

"I think in the first five or ten minutes, we came out of the traps. We said to the lads we need to make sure we get the crowd here rocking," he remarked.

According to Maynard, the team executed the game plan effectively and had several opportunities to take the lead. "We had probably three or four really good moments, and I think we should be going in 1-0," he continued, emphasizing his belief that his side should have scored early.

The match’s only goal came in the 23rd minute when Ronan Curtis set up Tolaj, who scored past County’s goalkeeper, Alex Bass.

Maynard, however, took issue with the goal, stating, "Their goal is offside and it’s a half foul. Would I say that it’s a definite foul? No, but it’s offside when you watch it back on the video. It is offside, so it is frustrating."

The defeat mirrored Notts County's recent 1-0 loss to Gillingham, another match where they struggled to convert chances. Maynard acknowledged the parallel, noting that while the team’s performance level was high, they faced challenges in putting games to bed.

He also highlighted the issue of players still working toward full match fitness, such as Robbie Cundy, Kairo Edwards-John, and Josh Knight, who came off the bench. "You can just see that little bit of match sharpness is lacking," he explained, pointing out that injuries have hampered the squad’s depth.

Maynard revealed that the team faces further injury setbacks, with Jodi Jones and Curtis Edwards side-lined for three months, while Connor Grant could be out for a minimum of six weeks.

Maynard also provided an update on David McGoldrick, who missed the match due to "a slight tightness in his tendon in his hamstring."

He stressed the importance of caution, explaining, "With the injuries that we’ve had long term, there’s no point risking him. We need to make sure everyone’s fit and 100% and ready to go."

In the closing stages, Notts County threw players forward in search of an equaliser, with Cundy moving into an emergency striker role.

Maynard praised the defender’s contribution, commenting, "Cuns comes on, and the goalie makes a great save from him. He heads it back where it’s come, and the goalie makes a great save."

Although Cundy nearly found the back of the net, Port Vale goalkeeper Connor Ripley ultimately kept County at bay with several impressive stops.

Maynard remained positive about the team’s resilience, despite recent results. "When you lose the game, it’s how you respond," he said, referring to Notts County’s response to their previous loss against Gillingham, which included a cup victory over Burton and a series of unbeaten league games on the road.

Looking ahead, he noted the importance of the upcoming fixture against Chesterfield, which carries additional significance due to the clubs' shared history from their National League days.

"We know it’s a huge game for the football club," he acknowledged. "We know all about the history behind how competitive it was when you guys were in the National League with them."

As Notts County prepares for their next test, Maynard and his team will focus on improving their finishing and maintaining their competitive edge.

While injuries have posed challenges, Maynard remains confident that the squad’s high performance level will soon yield results.

Catch all the details from Notts County's clash with Port Vale in our latest match report on Pride of Nottingham!

Don’t forget to cast your vote for Pride of Nottingham's Man of the Match and have your say on the game’s standout player!

As Notts County gear up for their clash against Port Vale later today, head coach Stuart Maynard has shared his thoughts on the team's progress and the challenges that lie ahead.

Notts County currently sit second in League Two, having amassed five wins and three draws from their first eight matches, with an impressive 17 goals scored already.

Maynard, however, is keen to ensure that his side remains focused and continues to build on their strong start.

Speaking ahead of the game, Maynard acknowledged that the early season form is promising but urged caution, emphasising the small sample size of matches played.

"If you look at it, it's only a small sample size of the league table at the minute. We’re very process-driven and stats-driven, so when you look into it, it’s a small sample size to see where teams could finish or couldn’t finish," Maynard explained. "But every game we go into, we want to win games of football."

Maynard was full of praise for Port Vale, recognising their strong recruitment over the summer, which has bolstered their squad with players of League One calibre.

"We know that Port Vale have invested heavily in their squad in the summer. If you look throughout their squad, they've got League One players and League One experience throughout. So we know it’s going to be a really tough game," Maynard commented, before noting the similarities between Port Vale and Carlisle in their tactical approach.

“They will try and pass the ball, but they also have a big man they can go direct off of, so we’ve got to make sure that we’re prepared for both sets of styles within that game.”

When asked about Notts County's ability to compete with top-end teams, something that let them down last season, Maynard stressed the importance of maintaining a strong structure and adapting tactically.

"We had to make sure that our structure could cope, and we believe that it has," Maynard said. “Port Vale have adapted within games and changed their shape on a few occasions, so we know they can change their structure if they believe we’re hurting them. We’ve got to prepare in a way that we’re ready for that.”

One of the standout features of Notts County’s early success has been their offensive threat, despite the departure of prolific striker Macaulay Langstaff in the summer.

Maynard praised the contribution of Jatta, who has filled the void left by Langstaff, as well as the team’s collective effort in front of goal.

"Jatta’s been incredible for us, and it’s a huge credit to him the way he’s adapted to English football," Maynard said. “But it’s not just him. We’ve had players step up and everyone’s chipping in with goals. We can’t just be reliant on one source, and I feel that we’re getting that this season.”

Maynard also highlighted the depth of his squad, pointing to the contributions of players like Kellan Gordon, who recently provided an assist after stepping in.

"I keep going on about it, it’s not just the starting eleven that’s going to bring us success this season, it’s the whole squad," he emphasised. “We’ve got headaches with selection, but they’re good headaches, and everyone has come in and had an impact.”

Injuries have been a concern for Maynard, particularly in the case of Jodi Jones, who has been side-lined after suffering from heavy tackles in recent games.

"Players need protection," Maynard said, calling for referees to manage games with more common sense. "You can’t just kick someone when the ball’s gone. We want the games to be competitive, but we don’t want injuries."

As Notts County head into their fixture against Port Vale, Maynard’s focus is clear: adaptability, structure, and squad depth are crucial to maintaining their early season form.

With the team in good shape physically, the Magpies will be looking to continue their strong run and keep pace at the top of the League Two table.

Join in with the Pride of Nottingham match discussion, read what other Notts fans think ahead of the game and be sure to add your pre-match thoughts and any key moments as the game unfolds.

Read the Pride of Nottingham match preview for today's game against Port Vale, be sure to leave you thoughts on the preview and the upcoming game here on PON.

Ahead of Notts County's home fixture against Port Vale, head coach Stuart Maynard provided insight into the team’s preparation and his reflections on recent performances.

Speaking candidly about squad fitness, tactical flexibility, and the team's desire to bounce back from a recent defeat, Maynard offered a clear sense of determination as his side looks to return to winning ways at Meadow Lane.

After Notts County's recent 2-0 victory against Carlisle United, Maynard was quick to highlight the importance of squad depth, particularly with injuries to key players.

“We’re getting there, we’re getting there slowly,” he said, reflecting on the return of some players. "Obviously, Didzy [David McGoldrick] we didn’t want to risk. He’s had some soreness and tightness in his hamstrings just through pure fatigue, so we’re managing him carefully."

Maynard also addressed the condition of midfielder Conor Grant, who missed the Carlisle game due to a knock.

"He’s got a little bit of swelling on his knee after a bang. The swelling seems to have died down now, and we’re just waiting on the scan results," he explained. "We’re hoping it’s not bad, but we’ll have to see what the scan throws up."

The return of players like Scott Robertson and Cedwyn Scott has bolstered the squad, but the absence of influential playmaker Jodi Jones continues to be felt. When asked about adapting to life without Jones, Maynard was philosophical.

"Look, we have a structure in the way that we play, and we want to control and dominate games in different ways. But obviously, Jodi is a top, top player, and you’re always going to miss that level of contribution," he acknowledged. "We’re going to miss Jodi, but when he comes back, it’ll be like a new signing. A signing you’d never believe you could get over the line."

One area where Notts County has made strides is in attacking reinforcements. The acquisitions of Josh Martin and Jevani Brown have provided cover in Jones' absence, but Maynard stressed the importance of managing their minutes to avoid further injuries.

"Both Josh and Jevani have had an impact when called upon. We just have to make sure we manage their minutes carefully to get them up to speed," he said.

Turning to the defensive side of the game, Maynard heaped praise on goalkeeper Alex Bass, who has been a standout performer in the early stages of the season.

"He fills you with confidence. Some of the crosses he takes are through crowds, and he makes them look easy," Maynard remarked. "We knew what we were getting when we signed him, and we were desperate to get him in the summer. He doesn’t just do a little bit of everything; he can do it all."

Bass’s impact was further underlined during the Carlisle game, where he not only kept a clean sheet but also provided an assist with a long pass. Maynard reflected on the importance of unpredictability in their tactical approach.

"It’s something we work on against different teams," he explained. "Bass is so accurate with his kicking, and if a team wants to be aggressive with their press, we have that at our disposal. We’ve got to be unpredictable. It’s about finding different ways of controlling the game."

Maynard's emphasis on adaptability and tactical fluidity suggests that Notts County will continue to evolve as the season progresses. With Port Vale up next, Maynard is keen to maintain the balance between attacking flair and defensive solidity.

"We can’t just be that team that plays from the back every time. Sometimes, you’ve got to take five or six men out of the press and bear down on their goal," he said, outlining the importance of varying their approach.

As Notts County return to Meadow Lane following their 1-0 defeat to Gillingham, Maynard’s comments reflect a focused and optimistic mindset. With a deepening squad, a commanding goalkeeper, and a tactical plan that embraces unpredictability, the Magpies are well-positioned to challenge Port Vale and push for another three points.

Maynard’s final word? “We’re always looking to strengthen, but we’re happy with the squad we’ve got – and now it’s about keeping everyone fit and fighting for places.”

Check out the opposition view on Pride of Nottingham as we sit down with a Port Vale fan to get their take on the upcoming clash!

Read Pride of Nottingham's exclusive with Kellan Gordon as he talks about staying close to family, life at Meadow Lane, and Notts County’s push to maintain their winning form.

Kellan Gordon, a defender for Notts County, has enjoyed a solid start to his time at Meadow Lane, having made five appearances this season.

After stepping up due to an injury sustained to Jodi Jones in a recent match against Gillingham, the 26-year-old has impressed both on and off the pitch.

In a recent interview, Gordon spoke openly about his experience since joining Notts County and the significant role that returning home has played in his career.

"I've really enjoyed it, to be fair," Gordon shared when asked about his time at Notts. "Every day coming into training, I have a smile on my face. It’s just good. I’m back home as well, so it’s just been a perfect move for me, I’d say."

The move to Notts County represented a homecoming for Gordon, who had spent the previous season at Crawley Town, where he was part of the team that secured promotion. Despite the success at Crawley, the opportunity to return closer to his roots was too good to pass up.

"A lot of things happen in football that are out of your control," he said. "But being back home is a massive part for me because all my family’s here. That in itself brings back comfort. My mum’s down the corner, my siblings around the corner, so it’s nice to be back."

For Gordon, family plays a significant role in his mental and emotional well-being, which he believes translates into improved performances on the pitch. He noted that having his support system nearby helps ease the pressure that comes with professional football.

"It’s massive. Family for me always comes first," Gordon explained. "When I’m having good and bad days, I can just go to my mum’s or see my siblings. It takes a massive mental weight off your shoulders, and I think it does make my football better. It’s like having a comfort blanket to lean on, and my family comes to the games as well, which helps."

Despite having tasted success with previous clubs, Gordon remains ambitious about his future and is eager to play at a higher level. However, he recognises that circumstances in football are sometimes beyond a player’s control.

"Of course, I want to play at a higher level, it’s a massive thing I want to achieve," Gordon said. "But like I said before, a lot of things weren’t in my control. Now, being at Notts, I see no reason why we can’t push on to the next league."

Gordon believes Notts County’s squad has the potential to achieve great things this season. When asked what gives him confidence in the team’s prospects, he pointed to the depth and quality within the squad.

"I think it’s the squad we have. No matter who plays in what position, we’ve always got a strong player to come in or start. That plays a massive part in any successful team," he said.

Reflecting on his own performances, Gordon feels he has made the most of his opportunities so far this season, stepping up when called upon and making a positive impact.

"I believe I’ve taken my chances when I’ve had an opportunity," Gordon said. "When I’ve come on, I’ve made an impact on what the manager wants me to do, and in the two games I’ve started, I feel I’ve made my mark on the game as well."

One of Gordon’s standout moments came when he scored in a match against Burton Albion, a town close to his heart.

"I got a goal against Burton, where I was born, so that was a nice touch," he smiled. "All my family was there, literally all my grandparents live in Burton, so everyone was there."

Looking ahead to the next few weeks, Gordon acknowledges the challenges that lie ahead for Notts County but remains confident that the team can maintain their strong start to the season.

"I think every week in this league is tough," he reflected. "Whether you’re playing someone at the top or the bottom, every game is a test. But we’re well-drilled, and the squad is strong enough to handle it."

Gordon also praised the atmosphere at Meadow Lane and the investments the club has made, including the new pitch, which has created an environment he believes is ready for success.

"It’s a brilliant stadium. Even last season, when I played here as an opponent, it was a great atmosphere. Now, being part of the home side, it’s fantastic. Everything is set up for this club to go higher, it’s now up to us to take it to that next level."

Head over to Pride of Nottingham forum and share your thoughts on tomorrow’s big clash at Meadow Lane as Notts County take on Port Vale! Let’s hear your predictions and join the match discussion now.

Robbie’s started a lively topic praising 'Super Sammy Austin' – join the conversation and share your thoughts on our brilliant Notts midfielder!

Notts County head coach Stuart Maynard praised his team's defensive resilience and individual performances following their 2-0 victory over Carlisle United at Brunton Park.

Goals from returning players Alassana Jatta and Scott Robertson sealed the win, lifting the Magpies to second place in the League Two standings.

Maynard was quick to highlight the contributions of goalkeeper Alex Bass, whose late save helped preserve the clean sheet. 

"Bassey, what a goalie he is," Maynard said. "I think we've got the best goalie in the league by an absolute country mile. The way he comes for crosses as well and relieves it, not just the saves, he relieves so much pressure."

Playing away at Brunton Park posed a difficult challenge, but Maynard was full of praise for his side's determination.

"This is a really tough place to come, and not many teams will come here and get points," he acknowledged, adding that despite Carlisle's recent struggles, "Mike Williamson will turn it around here, and they're a good team."

Notts County's defensive display, particularly in the second half, was something Maynard was keen to emphasise.

"We've just showed a side of our game once again that we can be gritty at the end," he said. "We come out in the second half, controlled the game again, but we won it in the first half with brilliance."

The head coach also gave credit to Jatta and Robertson, both of whom returned to the starting line-up after being side-lined. 

"Scott Robertson, to get through the minutes that he's got through for being the length of time out, and AJ to get through the time that he's got through tonight at the intensity…what a finish by the way," Maynard said of Jatta's goal. "It's something that we work on."

Jatta’s goal was indeed reminiscent of his earlier efforts this season. "He's got all types of goals, AJ," Maynard said.

He also expressed his delight for Robertson, who capitalised on a missed opportunity by Jatta to net the second goal. "I'm delighted for Robbo to get a goal as well because he should have more goals to his game."

Maynard lauded his entire team's first-half performance, saying, "We controlled the game from minute one, silenced the crowd, and you heard the reaction at half-time. They blew them off the pitch because we were that good in the first half."

Midfielder Dan Crowley also earned special praise for his influence on the game. "First half, he just grabs the game by the scruff of the neck," Maynard said. "Our movement, our rotations... we worked on it this morning. Dan was absolutely outstanding."

Despite the two-goal cushion at half-time, Maynard was aware of the dangers posed in the second half. "When you come in 2-0, it's a very dangerous score because if they get the first goal in the second half, you feel like they can go on and win the game," he noted.

However, his side defended resolutely, with multiple players making key blocks. "The lads have gone to the 94th minute... Jacob Bedeau, Matty Platty, Louis Macari, everyone's been absolutely outstanding and put a shift in tonight."

The victory was even more satisfying given Notts County’s recent run of form, following a defeat against Gillingham.

"It's always when you lose a game, it's how you bounce back," Maynard said. "Four points now from two away games is brilliant, really, we're delighted with it."

Maynard assured fans that Jatta's substitution late in the game was precautionary. "He's just cramping up," he said. "We can't risk him getting an injury."

Finally, Maynard reserved praise for the travelling fans, whose support helped drive the team to victory.

"The fans have been absolutely incredible," he said. "They were louder than the home crowd... they're part of the clean sheet, they're the 12th man."

With Notts County continuing their surge up the League Two table, Maynard's side looks set to challenge for top honours this season.

Catch all the post-match reactions and analysis on Pride of Nottingham by reading the full match report from the 2-0 win over Carlisle United."

Don't forget to cast your vote for Pride of Nottingham's Man of the Match from yesterday's 2-0 victory over Carlisle United!

Notts County winger Jodi Jones is set for an extended period on the sidelines after sustaining a small fracture to his tibia during the Magpies’ 1-0 defeat to Gillingham on 21st September 2024. 

The injury occurred after a challenge from Gillingham's Jacob Wakeling at Meadow Lane, a blow that saw Jones initially attempt to continue before eventually succumbing to the pain.

After the challenge, Jones bravely got to his feet, clearly determined to carry on. However, after only a moment, it was evident that he was struggling. He dropped to the floor in visible agony, but once again showed his resilience by rising and attempting to move around the pitch.

Despite his efforts, it was clear that Jones was not able to shake off the injury, and after slowly trying to walk it off, he was forced to be substituted.

The club confirmed the severity of the injury in an official statement, revealing that Jones is expected to be unavailable until the new year.

This is a significant blow for the 26-year-old Malta international, who has been a pivotal figure for Notts County, contributing with his attacking creativity and energy down the wing.

Jones, a fan favourite, has been a key player in Notts County’s promising start to the season, and his absence will be sorely felt.

Following the match, Jones took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to express his emotions about the injury and the toll it takes on him personally.

"Everybody knows how much I love playing football & what it means to me, so any period off of the pitch absolutely kills me," he wrote.

"It hurts that little bit more when I'm constantly asking for more protection and for opposition players to not be allowed constant free hits."

Jones’ frustrations go beyond the physical pain, as he called attention to the lack of protection for players like himself. He lamented that despite voicing his concerns, these issues are often overlooked.

"Unfortunately this is something that gets brushed aside & results in time off of the pitch," he noted, reflecting a sentiment that many offensive players share about the risks they face from hard challenges.

However, the talented winger was quick to reassure Notts County fans that this setback would only fuel his determination to come back stronger. 

"Anyway, everything happens for a reason & this is just a small bump in the road, somewhere I've been before but fortunately nowhere near as bad," Jones continued. "Notts fans, I don't want you to worry about me, I want you to be excited for my comeback."

Jones, who has previously battled through serious injuries, remains focused on a positive recovery, promising that his return will be worth the wait.

"The comeback is always greater than the setback & we all know how I respond to them!" he declared confidently, showing the same spirit that has endeared him to the Meadow Lane faithful.

In the meantime, Jones intends to use his time off the pitch to support the team and spend valuable time with his family.

"For now I will use this time to be a fan & support our fantastic team, recover well & spend as much time with my family as possible before I'm back & ready to get promoted!" he added, his determination undimmed.

Notts County’s official statement suggests that Jones will return to action in the second half of the season, and while his absence will be a significant loss, fans will eagerly await his comeback.

The winger’s combination of skill and grit has been crucial to the team’s efforts, and his return could provide a vital boost as the club aims for promotion.

For now, the Magpies will need to rally without their star winger, but with Jones’ words of encouragement and his pledge to come back stronger, the squad will undoubtedly find inspiration in his resilience.

Fans will be counting down the days until Jones returns to the pitch, eager to see him once again lighting up Meadow Lane with his electrifying performances.

Read Stuart Maynard's thoughts on Notts County's draw with Morecambe on Pride of Nottingham in A Deserved Point. Join the discussion!

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Notts County head coach Stuart Maynard expressed mixed emotions following his side's hard-fought 1-1 draw away at Morecambe.

Matty Platt’s late equaliser, set up by a sublime Sam Austin cross, salvaged a point for the Magpies in a match that began poorly for the visitors.

Despite the draw, Maynard believes the result could have been different had Notts capitalised on key moments and avoided the early concession.

Reflecting on the game, Maynard acknowledged the difficulty of falling behind so early, as Morecambe struck within the opening two minutes. "When you concede that early in the game, it becomes very difficult," Maynard said. 

"Places like this make it hard for you, and I thought they were very good at what they did today." The early goal shifted the dynamics of the game, forcing Notts to battle uphill from the start.

Despite the setback, Maynard was pleased with his team’s resilience, adding, "The character and the mentality we've got in this group now to keep going – we said it at half-time, keep going all the way to the end because we’re going to get some big moments."

The first half saw Notts struggle to break down a well-organised Morecambe side, who were relentless in their defensive efforts. Although Maynard’s team controlled much of the ball, they found it hard to create clear-cut chances. 

"We said at half-time our quality wasn’t good enough," he noted. "We needed to be more composed in the final third, and I think we saw that in the second half."

One of the game’s key moments came when Austin delivered an inch-perfect cross into the box, which Platt converted to score his first goal for the club. 

"What a ball across the box for the goal, it was outstanding," Maynard said, praising Austin’s contribution. "I’m delighted for Sammy [Sam Austin] because his work ethic again today was brilliant."

Platt’s goal was crucial, and although Maynard had identified set pieces as a possible source of goals, it wasn’t in the manner they had planned. 

"We thought we could probably score from set pieces today," Maynard said. "It didn’t kind of happen like that, but for Platty [Matty Platt] to get his first goal for the club is brilliant."

The game saw Morecambe set up differently than expected, which did not come as a surprise to Maynard. "Every team that plays us sets up differently," he explained.

"We always prep with two or three different game plans on how teams are going to press us." Notts had to adapt throughout the match, and despite dominating large parts of the second half, the breakthrough came late.

Maynard also touched on what could have been a turning point in the match when Morecambe’s left-sided centre-back, already on a booking, committed a foul on George Abbott. "It should have been a red," Maynard remarked. "It could have been a different game, but we’ll take the point and go again."

The game saw the debut of new signing Josh Martin, a winger signed as a free agent. "He’s a talented footballer," Maynard said. "He can play on either flank, dribble, and go by players. We believe we’ve signed a good player there."

As for injury concerns, Maynard provided an update on Jodi Jones, who is set to miss several weeks following an injury picked up in the previous game.

"We’re waiting on the results of his scan, but we don’t anticipate him being back soon," he said. "Jodi’s a huge miss for us. You look at his goal contribution and assists this season – when you miss big players, it has an impact."

Maynard expressed frustration at the trend of physical fouls his team has endured in recent games, which have contributed to their growing injury list. "Jodi’s been injured from it, and other players have too," he said. "It’s something we need to cut out of the game."

Despite the challenges, Maynard remains optimistic about his side’s ability to bounce back, stressing the importance of squad depth as Notts County navigates a gruelling season ahead.

Share your thoughts on David McGoldrick being named Pride of Nottingham's Man of the Match against Morecambe yesterday!

Dive into our match report on the 1-1 draw against Morecambe, and don’t forget to leave your favourite moments from the game in the comments.

Jacob Bedeau, Notts County's 24-year-old centre-back, has revealed his excitement ahead of this weekend’s clash against Morecambe, a club he spent two seasons with before making the move to Meadow Lane.

Having made seven league appearances this season and earned one cap in 2023 for Grenada, Bedeau spoke about his journey at Notts so far and what it means to face his former club.

Bedeau, who has been pivotal for Notts County’s defence with 720 minutes played and a pass completion rate of 87%, said, "It’s a club I was at for a couple of years, and I really enjoyed my time there." 

"I was looking out for this fixture, and I’m happy it’s come around so soon. It will be good to go back, but obviously, I’m focused on helping Notts get the three points."

Reflecting on his time at Morecambe, Bedeau spoke fondly of his experience. "I played a lot of games there, and the people at the club are really good. It’s a proper community club, and I developed a good relationship with the fans." he added.

"The gaffer there gave me opportunities, and it was a great learning experience, especially playing in League One where we had to compete with teams with big budgets. That really helped me grow as a player."

With Morecambe struggling at the bottom of League Two after their relegation, Bedeau was sympathetic to his former club’s challenges.

"They’ve had a tough start, but it’s one of those things. The gaffer there recruits well, and his teams are always hard-working. I think they’ll get out of their current position eventually, but we need to focus on our performance this weekend."

Since joining Notts County, Bedeau has quickly settled into his role at the back, contributing significantly to the team's defence.

When asked about his transition to the club, he said, "I think Notts County is a club in an upward direction. There’s so much potential here, and it’s a journey I wanted to be part of. The way we play football was a big factor in my decision to come here. It’s attractive football, and if we can get promoted playing this way, I think we’ll be successful at higher levels too."

Notts County’s possession-based style of play has meant a different challenge for Bedeau, particularly in maintaining focus during long spells of control.

"When we have the ball for long periods, it’s important for us at the back to stay switched on for counter-attacks. It’s something we’re still working on, making sure we lock the game in and limit the opposition’s chances. The gaffer speaks about it a lot, and I think we’ll only get better at it as the season progresses."

The match against Morecambe presents an opportunity for Notts County to bounce back from their recent 1-0 defeat to Gillingham, despite dominating possession. Bedeau acknowledged that no team in League Two can be taken lightly.

"In this league, a team can be amazing one week and struggle the next. We can’t take Morecambe lightly just because of their league position. We need to go there with the same respect we gave Gillingham, play our best football, and be confident we can get the result."

Bedeau’s influence has been noticeable not just on the pitch, but off it as well, with his leadership and advice to younger players coming through. When asked about 15-year-old Cameron Muir, who made his first-team debut recently, Bedeau had some words of wisdom.

"It’s a great achievement for him and his family, but he’s got to keep working hard. There’s a long way to go from 15 to 21, and he’s still young. My advice would be to keep impressing when he gets opportunities and be patient. He’s got a long way to go in the game, but with his qualities, I’m sure he’ll do well."

As Notts County prepare for their next fixture, Bedeau’s focus remains clear. "We’ve had a good start to the season, and we’ve built a solid foundation, especially with some important wins away from home. Now we just need to keep improving, keep working hard, and hopefully, we’ll be able to push for promotion." 

At 24 years old, Bedeau is already displaying the qualities of a leader on and off the pitch, and his presence at the heart of Notts County’s defence is set to play a key role in the club’s ambitions this season.

Read the Pride of Nottingham match preview ahead of today's game against Morecambe, with injuries, key players and much more. Be sure to leave a comment!

Share your thoughts on the Pride of Nottingham, all the way through today's game and after by making sure to leave your thoughts in today's match discussion as Notts travel to Morecambe.

Notts County head coach Stuart Maynard has called for a strong response from his squad as they prepare for tomorrow's away fixture against Morecambe. 

The Magpies head into the match on the back of their first defeat of the season, a narrow 1-0 loss to Gillingham. Despite this setback, County remain 4th in the League Two table, and Maynard is confident his side can return to winning ways.

Reflecting on the defeat to Gillingham, Maynard expressed confidence in his squad's overall performance, emphasising that their display did not reflect the result.

"I believe we were the better team within the game," he stated. "We should have been 2 or 3 nil up at half time. Even in the second half, we limited them to very few chances and created a lot ourselves."

Despite the loss, Maynard remains focused on the positives, pointing to the importance of maintaining performance levels as key to future success.

"Big moments within that game went against us," he said, "but the confidence in the group is very high. We’re firm believers in performance levels, and the performance levels all season have been very high. We’ve got to take that into Saturday now."

Maynard’s thoughts ahead of the Morecambe fixture reflect his awareness of the challenge posed by a side that has been struggling for points but remains competitive in every match.

"When you look at their scores, there’s always one goal within it," he observed. "They’ve probably been a little bit unlucky in a lot of their games that we’ve watched, with big moments not quite going their way."

The Morecambe game, Maynard added, will be anything but straightforward. "We’re fully prepared, we’re aware of what they bring, and we’ve got to be fully focused," he noted.

"This league’s relentless. You can’t look at league positions at this stage of the season, because there’s a lot of factors that determine why teams are where they are. Their performances have been very high, even if the results haven’t always followed."

In terms of team news, the head coach confirmed that Alassana Jatta, who has been side-lined with a concussion, will not be available for the trip to Morecambe. Jatta has returned to non-contact training, but the club is closely following the concussion protocols.

"We’ve just got to make sure that we manage it right with him because it’s a very serious thing with the concussion protocols," Maynard explained. "His welfare is more important than anything else."

Maynard also touched on the impressive progress of some of the club’s younger players, many of whom featured in the recent EFL Trophy clash against League One opposition.

"We believe in young players," he said. "If you’re good enough, you’re old enough. They didn’t just come in to make up the numbers, they performed to a very high level."

He singled out one young talent in particular, Kameron Muir, who made history by becoming the youngest player ever to make a first-team appearance for Notts County at just 15 years and 32 days old.

"He’s a special talent," Maynard praised. "He performs way above his age. He’s so level-headed and humble, which is a huge credit to him and his family. But we’ve got to manage him carefully."

Looking ahead to the game itself, Maynard is clear that Morecambe’s direct and aggressive style of play will pose a significant test for his side. "Morecambe are very committed to the press, very aggressive," he said. 

"They put a lot of balls into the box, and we’ve got to be prepared to deal with that. But I believe we’ve got that within our group now."

With the challenges of Morecambe away tomorrow and Carlisle away just days later, Maynard is under no illusions about the demanding schedule ahead, both for the squad and the club’s loyal fanbase.

"It’s a huge credit to our fans, the way they travel up and down the country," he said. "The journey does take it out of you a bit, but we’ve got the right protocols in place to recover and be ready to go again."

For Maynard and his team, tomorrow's match at Morecambe offers the perfect opportunity to show resilience and re-establish their momentum as they seek to solidify their promotion ambitions.

Jacob Bedeau has admitted that this weekend's clash against Morecambe is one he’s eagerly awaited since joining Notts County. Read his full thoughts on Pride of Nottingham and share your take on facing his former club!

Join the match discussion on Pride of Nottingham and have your say on the upcoming Morecambe vs. Notts County fixture! Let's hear your predictions, Magpies fans!

Jacob Bedeau has admitted that this weekend's clash against Morecambe is a fixture he has been eagerly anticipating since joining Notts County in the summer. 

The 24-year-old centre-back, who previously spent two seasons at Morecambe, reflected on his time at the club and the significance of facing his former team.

"Yeah, obviously it's a club I was at for a couple of years," Bedeau said when asked about the upcoming game.

"I really enjoyed my time there, so I did have a look for it along with the Christmas fixtures because they're always important as well. But yeah, it was one I was looking out for, and I was kind of happy it's so soon."

Despite Morecambe’s recent struggles, including relegation from League One and a challenging start to their League Two campaign, Bedeau remains fond of his time at the club.

"I think I played a lot of games. The people at the club are really good, it's a proper community club and I really grew a fond relationship with the fans. And obviously the gaffer there, I played under him, and a couple of the players are still there as well. So I want them to do well, but obviously this weekend, hopefully, we can take the three points."

Bedeau also discussed how crucial his spell at Morecambe was for his development, particularly in terms of gaining regular playing time. After starting his career at Aston Villa, he found the opportunity to play consistently invaluable.

"For any young player, it's important to go out and play games and get that experience that will be valuable later on in your career. They gave me the opportunity initially on loan, and then I enjoyed my time so much that I went back. It was tough at times, especially in League One, because we were competing with teams with massive budgets and really good squads, but it was a great learning experience."

Looking at Morecambe's current situation, sitting at the bottom of the table despite recent improvements, Bedeau acknowledged their difficult start but remained hopeful for their future.

"I think it's just one of those freak events – the one-nil losses to start the season. Obviously, there's been a lot of change around the players, but I think the gaffer there recruits really well, and his team's always hard-working. So I think they'll probably get out of the position they're in, but it just depends on how long that takes."

Since joining Notts County, Bedeau has slotted seamlessly into the team, featuring in all seven league games so far. He believes the move to Meadow Lane represents an exciting new chapter in his career.

"Notts County is a club in a really upward direction. There's so much scope for building and getting better and better, and it's a journey I wanted to be a part of. Hopefully, this season, we can set those foundations and climb the leagues."

Bedeau is particularly impressed with Notts County’s playing style, which was a major factor in his decision to join the club.

"Because of the way we play as a football team, it was a really attractive opportunity to come and play the type of football we do. If we can get promoted this year, which is our aim, and get into League One playing this type of football, I think we've got the basis for being successful up there as well."

Reflecting on the team’s defensive performances, Bedeau expressed satisfaction with how quickly the new signings have settled in, despite only keeping two clean sheets so far. 

"I think we've got a good understanding. Throughout the pre-season, we built that up, and I think it's still got a way to go." He added

"But yeah, I'm quite happy with the way we've started, with a couple of clean sheets and some good wins away from home. We’ve got a good understanding of each other and what we want to do."

While the team has conceded a few goals, Bedeau is confident that clean sheets will come as the season progresses. 

"I think it will come in the story of the season. You have those spells where you don't concede many, and then other times you go to Bromley and within three minutes you're two-nil down, and you've got to battle your way back. But I think especially here at home, even on Saturday, they had that one opportunity, and they took it."

With a few hard-fought wins already under their belt, Bedeau believes the team’s ability to adapt to different styles of play will be key to their success in League Two. 

"Over the course of the season, you're going to play teams that play completely different styles, and you have to match up to whatever they bring, especially away from home. That’s probably the most successful thing about the start of our season – those wins away at Swindon and Bromley. It was really important to set those foundations away from home, where we can travel on the road and still beat teams, which is really important to get up from this division."

With a strong start to the season, Bedeau is optimistic about Notts County’s chances of promotion and is relishing the challenge ahead.

Pride of Nottingham highlights Notts County's exciting addition of 23-year-old winger Josh Martin, a free agent from Portsmouth. His arrival at Meadow Lane boosts the Magpies' attacking options this season!

Join the Pride of Nottingham community by checking out the dashboard page and engaging in discussions throughout the site. Your voice matters in celebrating all things Notts County!

Notts County have bolstered their attacking options with the signing of 23-year-old winger Josh Martin on a short-term deal.

Martin, a free agent, arrives at Meadow Lane after being part of Portsmouth’s League One title-winning squad last season.

A product of both Arsenal and Norwich City’s academies, Martin brings experience at various levels, having made five Premier League appearances for Norwich as a teenager during the 2019-20 season.

He was also part of the squad that secured the Sky Bet Championship title the following year, before loan spells at MK Dons, Doncaster, and Barnsley helped him gain further first-team experience.

County’s Director, Richard Montague, expressed his delight at securing the deal. "Right up to the end of the transfer window, we were interested in adding another attacking option. With Curtis Edwards facing a long-term injury and Jodi Jones still under assessment, we felt it was crucial to take action," Montague said. 

"To sign a player of Josh’s calibre at this stage is fantastic. While he is primarily a winger, we believe his technical ability allows him to operate centrally within our system."

Martin's short-term contract runs until January, giving the promising forward a window of opportunity to make an impact in League Two.

Following a summer trial with Serie A side Como, Martin now has his sights set on establishing himself in County’s squad as they push for continued success under Stuart Maynard.

With his versatility and pedigree, Martin is expected to provide valuable depth and competition in the attacking areas, as the Magpies look to navigate the challenges of the season. Notts fans will be eager to see what he can bring to the side in the months ahead.

Ahead of our clash with Morecambe, don’t miss the Opposition View on Pride of Nottingham, where we get insights from their fans!

Pride of Nottingham celebrates a historic moment as Kameron Muir breaks a 25-year-old record to become Notts County's youngest ever player!

Kameron Muir has made history at Notts County, becoming the club’s youngest ever player at just 15 years and 32 days old.

The talented midfielder debuted in the Magpies’ 2-1 Bristol Street Motors Trophy win against Burton Albion, replacing Jevani Brown late in the match.

By stepping onto the pitch, Muir surpassed the previous record held by Jermaine Pennant, who first played for Notts County at 15 years and 10 months.

Reflecting on the moment, Muir admitted his initial disbelief. “My dad called me after school, along with my mum, and told me the news that I had been selected for the squad,” Muir said.

“I didn’t think I was going to come on, I thought I’d just be here for the experience. But I’m really grateful, and now I’ve become the youngest player to play for Notts County.”

Jake Henry, Academy Head of Coach and Player Development, was full of praise for Muir’s growth since joining the club’s youth system. “Kameron joined us playing grassroots football in Derby, and his progress has been fantastic to see,” Henry explained.

“He’s incredibly hard-working and determined to be the best he can be, which is what we always look for in a player. He had the opportunity to train with the first team over the summer, and his attitude was outstanding. After one of the sessions, he told us, ‘It’s just football,’ which perfectly sums up his grounded personality. He’s focused on enjoying the game and playing at the highest level possible.”

Henry also acknowledged the significance of Muir’s debut. “For Kameron to make his debut at 15 years old is a remarkable achievement, not only for him and his family but for all of the Academy staff who have worked with him. To be the youngest player in the club’s history is a great milestone.”

Muir’s calmness under pressure and love for the game is clear, with Henry highlighting his desire to keep improving and enjoying every moment on the pitch. 

His impressive attitude has helped him thrive, even when faced with the challenge of stepping into first-team football at such a young age.

After the game, Muir shared a touching moment with his family. “They were here tonight, and it was brilliant going over to see them at the end. They looked really proud, which made me smile,” he said.

Fans of Notts County will be keen to follow Muir’s journey after his record-breaking debut, which showcases both his talent and the strength of the club’s Academy. Muir’s rise from grassroots football to a professional debut serves as a testament to his dedication and potential.

With the spotlight now on Muir, Notts County supporters will be excited to see what lies ahead for the 15-year-old.

His debut marks the beginning of what promises to be a bright future, and the Magpies faithful will be eager to see more of him in the first team as the season progresses.

Head over to Pride of Nottingham to share your thoughts and read Mark Stallard’s insights on Notts County's narrow 1-0 defeat to Gillingham.

Head over to Pride of Nottingham and share your thoughts on this weekend's game against Morecambe, as Notts County aims to bounce back and return to winning ways.

Notts County suffered their first defeat of the season at Meadow Lane, falling 1-0 to Gillingham in a closely contested affair. 

Speaking on BBC Radio Nottingham, Notts County correspondent Mark Stallard shared his thoughts on the match, emphasising the importance of taking chances, especially in tight games.

During the post-match analysis, David Jackson, from BBC Radio Nottingham, opened by reflecting on a pivotal moment in the first half when Notts County full-back Nick Tsaroulla found himself in a promising position.

“My mind keeps going back to earlier in the game with the Nick Tsaroulla chances,” Jackson said, noting the team’s ability to get in behind Gillingham’s disciplined defence. “You kind of thought, well surely they'll break that down again and get a goal eventually, but of course it never materialised.”

Stallard was quick to agree, recognising that such missed chances often determine the outcome of matches. He noted, “Absolutely, and again, taking your chances is key in football matches. Very small margins separate games, you know, a lot of weeks of the season. Not every week can you go and score three and four goals, even when you've got the sort of potency that Notts possess, the quality of play.”

Despite Notts County’s dominance, with 70.5% possession, the Magpies struggled to make their control count on the scoreboard. Stallard singled out Tsaroulla’s chance, as well as another from George Abbott, as key moments that could have changed the complexion of the match.

“When you get your chances, you have to take it. Nick Tsaroulla, and George Abbott with those two chances - had they taken that, we got in front. You get in front, it then gives a different dynamic to the game because Gillingham are behind, they have to chase something out of the game.”

Gillingham, known for their defensive solidity, executed their game plan perfectly, frustrating Notts County’s attack and staying compact throughout. 

Stallard acknowledged their approach, saying, “Although I was really impressed with the visitors, I have to say, although Notts played well, and if they'd have taken their chances, obviously it would have been a different game. But I thought they looked solid, they looked like everything we'd expect them to be.”

Elliott Nevitt’s goal in the 38th minute proved to be the decisive moment, with Gillingham making the most of their limited opportunities.

Stallard praised Nevitt’s clinical finish, noting, “The composure they took their chance, Elliott Nevitt when he got his opportunity took it really well.”

The first goal, according to Stallard, was always going to be crucial in such a tightly contested match. “That first goal may have changed the game completely,” he said, suggesting that if Notts County had struck first, the outcome could have been different. Had the Magpies taken the lead, Gillingham might have been forced to abandon their defensive posture and play a more expansive game.

Stallard’s analysis also touched on the overall resilience of the Gillingham side, who showed why they have one of the most formidable defences in League Two.

“You can only play what's in front of you, Gillingham played the game well and kept Notts really at arm's length,” he concluded.

Ultimately, while the defeat was a setback for Notts County, Stallard’s analysis served as a reminder of the small margins that can define football matches. Despite their best efforts, the Magpies were left to rue their missed opportunities as they look to bounce back in their next fixture.

Check out the latest Faces of PON gallery on Pride of Nottingham, capturing Notts County fans from the Gillingham match! Chris, the photographer behind these moments, shares his journey of passion and connection with the supporters.

On Pride of Nottingham, Stuart Maynard reflects on the 1-0 defeat to Gillingham, discussing the team's missed chances and the frustrations that led to his yellow card.