Talking Tactics: Notts County v. Newport County

Notts County dismayed and delighted in equal measure on Saturday by beating Newport County 4-3 in their League Two clash at Meadow Lane.

The Exiles struck twice in the opening 10 minutes through Mark Byrne and Alex Rodman, but the Magpies were level by the break through Liam Noble and Izale McLeod.

The former Crawley man nodded in midway through the first half to put Notts ahead, but Newport levelled with just six minutes to play through Scott Boden.

Just when it seemed like it would be honours even at the Lane, Noble popped up six minutes into injury time to clinch a thrilling win.

In this new feature, Pride of Nottingham will analyse all aspects of the game, from the result to the tactics, and also rate the performance of the referee and the Notts players, as well as working out how the Magpies can push on going forward.

Was the result fair?

On the merit of how Notts played overall and for our attacking ability, I would say that we deserved the victory. It was end to end and entertaining, with us outplaying Newport once we had sorted ourselves out.

How did Notts play?

It was very difficult to see how Notts could get into the game early on, we were none existent at the back, and the organization really had to be stepped up. Going forward, the Magpies played with ambition and desire – This I feel helped to win over the crowd and once the support came, Notts were showing promise throughout their attacks and even started to pressure off from themselves at the back.

How did Newport play?

They played much better compared to the highlights I had studied before the game; they kept the ball on the ground mostly and worked the ball forward. However, if we have concerns regarding our defence – Newport must have this themselves, as the only flaw was their inability to mark or defend properly.

Did our tactics work out?

It’s hard to say, I don’t think tactically we was prepared – especially earlier on within the game and I think some squad inclusions added pressure on. I think once confidence came, plus the crowd started to show their appreciation for how the several players who took the game under their wings, along with changes made to underperforming players it all sorted itself out – however, had Newport’s defence not been so poor, the easy answer would have been no.

How did the referee perform?

The referee didn’t really stand out, I think he called the game moderately well and for once it was noticeable with how the game was ability to pan out. Of course, accidents happened which would leave some fans questioning his decisions but he honestly didn’t seem to favour either side in my opinion.

Who do we play next?

Next up is Wycombe Wanderers on Tuesday 15th December. This will be one of three ‘make or break’ games for Notts, with Carlisle and Hartlepool all being away from home.

How should we play them?

Our away form desperately needs improving, however Wycombe have the ability to beat good sides within this division and I would class it difficult for that reason alone. The home advantage will be something they’ll want to use to their favour, much like Cambridge but without several changes to our squad we should be able to give them a game regardless.

Notts ratings:

Carroll 5.5, Hewitt 6 (Amevor 6), Sprockel 3 (Milsom 6), Sheehan 7, Audel 6, Campbell 6.5, Thompson 6, Noble 9, Burke 6 (Murray – Unrated), Stead 5.5, McLeod 6.5

Read the PON: 'Match Report' or join our 'Match Discussion'.