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Tranmere Rovers Preview

Notts face yet another important meeting tomorrow afternoon at Meadow Lane. The visit of Tranmere Rovers is hardly a glamorous one, but an ugly performance is all that it will take to relieve the pressure on the pies. Chris Kiwomya has made a lot about not having a starting eleven and suffering from constant injuries and suspensions. However, I take a different view and believe that the management just cannot nail down the best set-up and team. This is by no means a jibe at the management, they shook things up with a different formation on Tuesday night.

Whilst it saw more shots by Notts, the defence were left abused and exposed. It’s hard to imagine that the 5 goals shipped on Tuesday will put him off an attacking approach tomorrow though.

It is hard to say what formation Kiwomya will adopt. With the emphasis on attack it would be surprising to see any of McGregor, Haynes, Haber, Liddle, Bell or Grealish absent from the starting line-up. Arquin could well start but has been seen to better effect coming off the bench.

Sheehan, Leacock and Smith will be amongst the defenders but whether Dumbuya will be reinstalled is another question.

Tranmere Rovers have Jason Koumas available again but James Wallace is still making slow progress back from an injury.

Tranmere sit 17th with 5 points on the board with their latest result seeing them lose 3-4 to Brentford. They currently have a worse goal difference than Notts by one goal, but their ability to score goals is something Notts will be forced to address.

They are likely to play on the counter attack at Meadow Lane so Notts must ensure they do not fall into the trap of all possession and no intent. Notts must make use of their wings and hurt Tranmere whenever possible.

Notts are actually favourites with the bookmakers to win tomorrow at 6/4. Tranmere are best priced at 85/40 with the draw at 12/5.

This is a very hard match to address in terms of a prediction.

This certainly won’t be a match for those hunting out a glamorous attacking football display. It will be a rough, physical match that will require a ruthless approach from Notts. With so much pressure upon the players, nerves will be tingling, but if Notts are able to put in a good display and get a point as a minimum, there will be a lot to build upon after recent efforts.

To be frank, we must cross our fingers, get down the Lane and hope that Notts can turn things around. Tranmere, although not world beaters, aren’t fools and will take advantage where they can.

You Pies!
By James Constantine
UniPie

Leyton Orient 5-1 Notts

Just when you think things couldn't get worse for Notts County, they do. Yes, an away trip to a team that won their first six games on the bounce and boasting a goal difference of +12 was always going to be a tough ask, but to lose 5-1 marks a new low. Leyton Orient was the team which administered such punishment to the Magpies on a cold Tuesday evening in September, as if things couldn't get any frostier over at the club. Chris Kiwomya decided to completely reshuffle his team and formation, starting in a 3-5-1-1 formation with Enda Stevens and David Bell as the right-backs.

A back three of Gary Liddle, Dean Leacock and Alan Sheehan, a midfield of Callum McGregor, Andre Boucaud and Mark Fotheringham, and Jack Grealish behind Marcus Haber in attack.

In all fairness, Notts didn't begin too badly. McGregor and Grealish had shots in the first fifteen minutes, while Romain Vincelot's cross nearly looped into the Notts net. Vincelot's shot was the swing of the pendulum towards Orient, as Kevin Lisbie headed wide just a minute later and Tommy Mooney unleashed a powerful shot which was saved by Bartosz Bialkowski. On twenty minutes, a free-kick was swung in and nearly threatened, but for Nathan Clarke's inability to connect.

Notts did have several more chances, courtesy of Grealish and Haber, but sadly, Notts found themselves behind - as has pretty much always been the case this season - in the 28th minute to dangerman Lisbie, who was practically unmarked as he headed in from Lloyd James' free-kick. 1-0 Orient.

Notts did gain the upper hand in terms of play from then on, with an inspired Andre Boucaud doing particularly well, and Fotheringham did get a decet shot after some good play in midfield.

But the equaliser didn't come. The only thing that came was the next setback, the sucker punch, the doubling of the Orient lead on the stroke of half time, courtesy of that man again, the former Charlton player - back when they were in the Premiership - Kevin Lisbie, with a poacher's rebound after Dean Cox's shot.

After the half-time break, during which Manny Smith and Yoann Arquin came on in place of Fozzy and Stevens, Notts came out with intent, Bell showing some skill on the wing before attempting a low cross which was saved, before a tame free kick chance where Leacock's header was comfortably saved.

And then... 3-0 to Orient. The defence was caught napping again, and Cox, given way too much time on the ball, lashed a powerful shot into the net, with some help from the right-hand post.

Credit to Notts, they never quite gave up, Sheehan and Bell with some good chances, before the young McGregor weighed in with a woodwork-bothering effort on 65. Eventually, the Magpies did breach the O's clean sheet, substitute Danny Haynes heading the ball into the top corner on 71 minutes, but there was no chance of a Liverpool-style comeback this time, because the home side, brimming with confidence even before the game, took advantage of a weak and unattentive Notts defence to score another two, courtesy of Shaun Batt and Jayden Stockley.

So here we are. Rock bottom, one solitary point out of a possible 21, having just conceded five in one game. The 154 travelling Notts fans couldn't even look forward to a positive trip home, despite having made such an effort to travel down to London on a weeknight to see their team.
Joe Jones

Why isn't it working?

I felt after last season we had turned a corner, I have to admit that Chris Kiwomya's appointment was disappointing – I had hoped we would go for experience but none the less I am willing to back any manager, just like I would regardless whoever played for Notts County. The early signs seemed promising, I eagerly awaited the final game and I have to say when it came – I felt saddened as you can imagine but the prospect of a brighter season soon followed. Now, Chris might not be setting the world alight last season but I felt it could improve with his own players signed.

At a glance he's done pretty well with regards to signings – Danny Haynes could very well be a gem but I think we need to find a style which suites him.

Players such as Yoann Arquin and Enoch Showunmi came back with a spring in their steps and certainly it seemed like we had a new strike force. The disappointing side for me was the fact we didn't make our back a little bulkier early on, for me this was a weak area. Though the majority wanted another striker and the midfield improving, one of which we are currently not really progressing in.

It's hard to single out Chris Kiwomya – Can it all be his fault? I wouldn't say so, however for me the majority of things are for him to handle and fix. Isn't this what a manager is for?

For me we could be doing far better, even with Chris who's learning on the job. It's hard to explain where exactly I think things could be improved but I am going to try. I'm sure he feels exactly the same way, as he's plotting his next decisions and tactics.

Firstly – I would try to find a routine and a formation which the players can become used too. I think 4-4-2 might be old fashioned but there's not much wrong with that, it's certainly far better than using Curle's previous formations – The now famous alone forward and of course 3 at the back.. Yawn....

We surely have a first 11 – Those who don't perform well in one game, shouldn't be dropped in the next – The only way I would drop a player is if he shows the same during training or he's been consistently poor. I'd pick the brighter players and tinker with finding ways of motivating the players who are currently not giving exactly 100%.

Yet – with a squad like ours we can't always afford to be choosy and so sometimes old fashioned management can come in handy in these situations. Being honest and open – prevents ill-feelings if handled correctly and hard work cannot be a bad thing.

If we insist on playing on the floor, we need to focus on this during training. There's no reason why we can't play pretty football but it's how it's applied from the back, which allows it to be successful going forward. Watching Notts sometimes reminds me of stacking domino’s and then allowing 'em to fall, we go forward and make good progress, only to knock the ball back and have to start all over again.

Thing's like this is where Chris needs to stamp his authority, it's easy to blame him and the players but a manager who tries hard, often isn't a manager who fails and I honestly feel he's scared of repercussions at times.

In games like MK Don's, there's easy way's to break up the play and hold pressure. The inability to mark/defend only allows teams to punish us and for me you cannot blame the players fully here, the watchful eye of the manager should be the person whom attempts to fix things. I feel we have a lack of inspiring players, vocal and aware.. True leaders who understand how to change games but this doesn't mean we can,t make the most of players like Fotheringham or Liddle – Who'd both be decent vice captains.

The answers to our misfortunes are how we prepare – Morale can be low, players confidence not very high but if you sit on this the situation grows and becomes worse.

It's clear the players need to learn to work together, each strength and weakness needs to be learned in order to aid and prevent mistakes. We should be seeing more partnerships, especially down the flanks and if things were able to click we might see more chances falling to our forwards, I sometimes wish they'd gamble more but you can't expect them to score if the service is poor or below par.

It's bordering on the final roll of the dice for Chris in the eyes of many fans and if the board want to show encouragement to the manager – they'll need to make sure he actually keeps at addressing the problems as we haven't seen any real “fixes”.

Of course it takes time for players to get used to each other, hence why I believe we need to start with simple steps.

The training sessions should be where we try to mix things, encourage creativity and hopefully we can see some of it applied on the field. When games aren't going our way – It needs addressing, even if it's only 3 minutes in!
Chris

Leyton Orient Preview

Tonight Notts will meet the very top of League Two, as we prepare to take on Leyton Orient. They've started the 2013/14 season very well, the spirit with their play is positive and they've enjoyed successive victories over some very decent sides. Leyton Orient are undefeated, impressively they've scored a total of 16 goals so far in only 6 games and have only seen 4 goals put past them. Ex Notts County manager Russell Slade will no doubt be fairly confident ahead of our clash, so it's down to the Notts coaches & players to perform on the pitch in order to halt their progress.

Alan Sheehan's made comments to local media about the players owing a big performance, it's got to be asked when does the talk finish and the performances start but on paper we are a very capable League One club.

Notts will be required to hold their heads high and take the game steady, it would be nice to see an improved performance after the recent weeks and Chris Kiwomya will no doubt be looking into turning the season around as quickly as possible, as a loss would result in the worst start to a Notts season for sometime.

Russell Slade's commented that “You look at Notts County on paper and they will improve sooner rather than later.” - We need to transfer this onto the pitch with a good level of performance's, even if we lose every so often.

Chris Kiwomya's promised changes and even went on record to saying we will see a couple of players on the bench, so the lineup could be anyone's guess.

The only known injury (unless I've missed some) is to Haydn Hollis – Although I wonder if Liddle will return back to centre back, although personally I would hope he could remain in midfield and given a role where he's dictating the passing.

My Prediction – 2-1 to Leyton Orient.

COYP!
By Notts-Joe
Chris

MK Dons 3-1 Notts County

Notts recorded a sixth defeat in seven league games this season after going down 2-1 to a spirited Milton Keynes Dons side away.

Former Man Utd reserve Luke Chadwick scored within the first five minutes after a defensive howler by the Notts defenders leaving him clear through on goal, before a curled free kick from Shaun Williams on 37 doubled the Dons lead. Although Notts managed to pull one back in the second half through Callum McGregor, their eagerness to push for an equaliser left them exposed at the back, leaving Patrick Bamford to net in injury time, securing all three points for the team formerly known as Wimbledon.

Although Notts managed to pull one back in the second half through Callum McGregor, their eagerness to push for an equaliser left them exposed at the back, leaving Patrick Bamford to net in injury time and secure all three points for the team formerly known as Wimbledon.

Chris Kiwomya began the game in a 4-4-2 formation, drafting Marcus Haber in attack alongside Danny Haynes. Gary Liddle went into midfield as Manny Smith and Dean Leacock lined up in centre-back.

The 430 travelling Notts fans didn't have to wait too long for another farcical setback this time, Bamford taking only five minutes to seize on a dreadful headed backpass to thread through to Chadwick for an easy goal. 1-0 MK Dons. It could have been 2-0 just a minute later, but the subsequent MK chance was offside.

Notts did get a good chance on the quarter-hour mark, however, when McGregor's cross met Haber's head and troubled home keeper David Martin.

For the majority of the half, however, it was all Milton Keynes. Stephen Gleeson, Samir Carruthers and Bamford all had fine chances to increase their lead.

As has been the case often this season, any potential progress from Notts was thwarted by poor refereeing decisions, as was the case when Haber was tripped by Williams in the home box, but no penalty was given.

To add insult to injury, the same player was then responsible for doubling the Dons lead, with an exquisite free kick from the edge of the box. Bartosz Bialkowski had no chance.

In all fairness, Notts were lucky to only go back to the changing rooms 2-0 down, as two more great chances were just short, from Carruthers and Danny Green.

The Magpies came out in the second half determined to give their fans something to smile about, and they began well, Haynes' half volley ricocheting off the advertising boards. Dons would keep threatening with efforts from Chadwick and Bamford, but Notts had a bit more edge to them, Haber mustering a half chance from a David Bell cross.

The next major chance came on 69 minutes, with a Bamford shot oly just being deflected away by Bart.

On 76 minutes, Notts finally drew blood, Sheehan's brilliant through-ball falling to McGregor, who proceeded to fire into the bottom right corner to make it 2-1.

The rest of the game, however, would all be MK Dons, with a Carruthers shot (kind of) and substitute Izale McLeod's chance when clear through on goal.

Eventually, victory was secured for the home side with a Bamford rebound from a Bart save crossing the line and making it 3-1. Game over, Notts County find themselves rooted at the bottom of League One with one meagre point from six games.
Joe Jones

Notts County 0-1 Rotherham United

The feel-good factor following the Liverpool game lasted for all of thirty-seven minutes today at Meadow Lane, as an initially sprightly and confident Notts County fell to pieces once again, this time at the hands of Rotherham, who left Meadow Lane with all three points following a 1-0 win. The Millers took a lead against the run of play through Kieran Agard's close range strike, and never looked back, as Notts' atrocious form continued and left them deep in the relegation mire, behind only point-deduction sufferers Coventry City.

Chris Kiwomya began the game with a 4-5-1 formation, Dean Leacock returning to defence and Yoann Arquin the sole striker behind a packed V-shape midfield.

Buoyed by a crowd eager to watch the team that so thoroughly tested Liverpool in midweek, Notts began with swagger and confidence, and within five minutes had their first chance, but Millers keeper Scott Shearer was able to get to it.

The first proper opportunity for Notts came in the thirteenth minute, when David Bell fired a shot from the edge of the box which tested Shearer. In the same spell of action, JCR whistled a cross across the goalmouth but Arquin was unable to convert.

Rotherham's initial attempts were all well over, as the likes of Lee Frecklington blasted the ball in a manner befitting a rugby conversion. Gary Liddle in particular was on great form in defence, always getting to the ball just in time to block potentially threatening shots. There was even an amusing moment when Shearer completely misjudged a Leacock clearance, seeing it bounce right over his head. However it was nowhere close to goal.

One disappointment during this good period was that JCR had to be subbed off with an injury. Adam Coombes, the young Chelsea loanee and scorer of the equaliser against Liverpool, came on in his place.

Once again, Notts ended up conceding against the run of play. On 37, Mustapha Dumbuya, who in all honesty wasn't playing to his usual standard, conceded a free kick on the edge of his box due to a handball. The defender cautioned, Rotherham then whipped in a free kick, and following a chaotic goalmouth scramble, Agard was on hand to poke the ball home.

Following the goal, Rotherham began asserting their presence in the game, and half time came at just the right time, allowing Notts to regroup. In theory.

After a very enjoyable half time Cornish pasty which actually turned out to be the highlight of the afternoon in hindsight, business resumed from where it left off at the whistle.

In all fairness, Notts were the victims of several questionable decisions by the referee in the second half, many of them relating to Rotherham's rough and tumble style, which intensified over time as they tried to see how much they could push their luck.

But the more minutes ticked by, the more Notts just drained in confidence, and by the end of the game they just ceased to threaten the Rotherham goal and miscuing several crosses and passes, much to the chagrin of the home crowd.

There were a couple of isolated instances in the second half where Notts threatened, when Coombes took a shot from the left hand side on 68 minutes following Enda Stevens' free kick, and later on when a penalty appeal was waved away following Coombes' marauding run in the box, which was impeded by two Rotherham defenders.

The game, however, would end 1-0, and there were few positives that could be taken after such a display. Notts have one point from 15 and sit in the relegation places, behind a team whose points tally is in the minus following a points deduction. If we can just close the book on a dire August - League Cup run aside - and start afresh in September, it would be best.

Baby steps must be taken to claw back points and confidence, then if we can start slowly climbing back up the table, then good, but we need to take it step by step, for this is now a relegation battle.
Joe Jones

Rotherham United - View

Notts County come into the game having held their heads high at Anfield having battled for 4-2 defeat in the second half of extra time, having ended the game at 2-2. Rotherham United played on the 28th and enjoyed a game against Aston Villa, where they lost 3-0. The Millers have gotten off well so far in the season and Notts are still looking for their first home with of the season. We here at Pride of Nottingham have taken the time to speak with Miller fan "Ian" and we've asked him a series of 12th questions - Let's get behind the lads on Saturday! COYP!!

Firstly, could you tell prideofnottingham.co.uk a little about yourself, such as how long you've been a fan for?

My name is Ian & live in Rotherham & have been a fan for 42 years.

Last year we met in the cup and you not only managed to get a replay but you brought the game to us at Meadow Lane and played very well. What was your view on this game?

Last years cup replay was one of our performances of the season & we really did "play you off the park" as it were, I hope for more of the same this weekend.

Can you please tell us about your expectations for the new season and how you felt your pre-season went?

I'm not like some Millers fans who are half expecting to run straight through League One & get to the Championship in one go, but it is our long term aim. Mid Table.

Pre-season was good for us, unbeaten on a three game mini scottish tour, then victory v Bolton in our first home friendly, but then home defeats to three Championship clubs, all narrow ones, 2-3 v Middlesbrough, 0-1 v Huddersfield, & 2-3 again v Barnsley, but good experience v Championship opposition!!

Rotherham have a fairly capable side – Have you made any new additions to your squad since our last meeting and how are they settling in?

The squad is OK with competition in most areas. Since last year we've brought in several players, most notably Matt Tubbs from AFC Bournemouth, also, Milsom & Tidser in Midfield, ex Carlisle keeper Collin, right back Brindley, last season at Chesterfield, striker Hylton from Aldershot & Worrall, the ex Bury winger who has been the most impressive of the newbies so far, but they all need time to bed in. The starting line ups so far has mainly been the side that got us promotion.

Four games in, although early days you're showing some very promising signs. Can you give us a basic run down of your last four games?

Last 4 games, OK Right;

10th Aug PNE H 0-0 Tight game with defences on top, could have nicked it but overall fair result

17th Aug Crawley A 2-1 win Should have been more, more comfortable than the scoreline suggests.

24th Aug Shrews H 2-2 Outplayed for large parts of the game by a surprisingly good Shrews side, lucky to get a point!!

28th Aug Villa A 0-3 Comfortably beaten by a Villa side that obviously is taking the Capital One Cup seriously as they played virtually their entire 1st team, but not disgraced, & like Notts at Anfield, will have learned an awful lot from the experience.

On Tuesday we faced Liverpool in the Capital One Cup, where we lost 4-2 after ending 90's all square. Did you watch the game on Sky?

Didn't watch the Anfield game as i'm a footy anorak & was at Derby v Brentford!!!

Who do you think will be your highest goal scorer and which three opposition players do you think will contend for the highest goal scorer overall?

Hard to tell who'll be our top scorer as we seem to get just as many goals from midfield compared to the strikers. High hopes though for Kieran Agard in the scorers stakes, along with Lee Frecklington.

League 1 as a whole, I can see Griffiths at Wolves & Sheff Utds new signing Jose Baxter scoring loads!!

We have a fair few injuries/concerns at the moment – Do you look into opposition sides prior to games and do you feel it could be an area the Millers could benefit from?

I'm sure Mr Evans has done his homework on the Pies & is aware of their collective strengths & weaknesses.

What formation and line up do you see being used by Steve Evans on Saturday?

I think we'll pack the midfield (thats where our strengths are) & go for a 4-5-1 formation leaving Alex Revell as a lone striker with players like Agard & Pringle in support.

Can you tell us which players you feel will pose a threat to Notts County?

Watch out for our midfield three of Ben Pringle, Lee Frecklington & Michael O'Connor, if you can nullify their threat you've got a real chance.

Which Notts County players are you most wary about and how would you try to cancel out their game?

The only Notts player that concerns me is Arquin as he scored an absolute screamer in the first Cup tie at NYS last season & he scored at Anfield didn't he?

On the 28th Rotherham lost to Aston Villa in the Capital One Cup, Did you enjoy the clash and how important is the cup games this season?

The Villa tie was a great experience for the players & supporters & we enjoyed it despite the result.

Pride of Nottingham would like to thank Ian for taking the time to answer our questions, I'd also like to extend a warm welcome to him as he has since joined us as Bradthemiller! Nice to have another opposition fan in our midst
Chris

Liverpool 4-2 Notts County

Could he, god forbid, knock him out? As it was, Apollo prevailed, just about, but nobody could begrudge Rocky for his titanic effort, especially when coming back down from an insurmountable position, and in the process, gained the respect and appreciation of the sporting world. Apollo tonight was played by Liverpool Football Club, while Notts County were sublime in their role as Rocky, taking the Premier League club into extra time and threatening a shock, before the Reds were able to finally labour to a 4-2 win against the Magpies. Chris Kiwomya began in a 4-4-2 formation, with new signing Enda Stevens, a loanee from Aston Villa, in the left-back position, while Gary Liddle, Manny Smith and Muzzy Dumbuya completed the defence. David Bell, Joss Labadie, Mark Fotheringham and JCR were in midfield, while Callum McGregor was pushed up front alongside Yoann Arquin.

For Liverpool, their starting line-up was a signal of intent that they were taking the competition seriously, fielding Steven Gerrard, Glen Johnson, Kolo Toure and Daniel Sturridge in their starting 11.

Things did not start well for Notts, as the first chance for the Reds, in the fourth minute, was also their first goal. Raheem Sterling, the highly-rated England youngster who terrorised the Scotland Under 21s just two weeks ago, weaved through the Pies defence, before firing a shot which slipped past Bartosz Bialkowski's grip. 1-0 Liverpool.

The first twenty-five minutes were virtually all Liverpool, and included chances from Gerrard and Sturridge, while a free-kick from the Reds skipper was smashed against the post by the head of Daniel Agger, subbed on after an injury to Aly Cissokho. When Notts enjoyed their first spell of possession on twenty-six, the passes were greeted with enthusiastic "OLE!"s from the travelling contingent. Manny Smith had a half-chance which went straight to Reds keeper Simon Mignolet, while at the other end, Jordon Ibe and Sterling threatened the Notts goal.

On the half-hour mark, it seemed like Notts' night was crashing around them, as Liverpool got their second. Gerrard, unplayable at the best of times, played a beautiful defence-splitting through ball to Sturridge, who then smashed it past Bart. 2-0, and I won't lie, the words "Spain versus Tahiti" began flashing into my head. Notts would be lucky not to concede any more in the first half, as the defenders stepped it up a gear - JCR was playing like a man possessed, both in attack and in defence, while Liddle was responsible for a great charge down against Toure. Then, Bart's amazing reaction stop on 34 denied Agger a certain goal. Dumbuya's miscontrol on 37 allowed Liverpool to break through, but Liddle's intervention denied them, an action whereby he was lucky not to have given away a penalty. The final meaningful chance saw Gerrard smash the ball against the post on 40.

The second half saw Notts make an effort to retain possession, which worked well to unsettle Liverpool. For a while, the Reds lost their groove and couldn't manage more than a few half-chances. On the hour, Notts stepped it up a gear. McGregor was responsible for winning the first of two corners, before attempting a powerful long shot which was saved. Just two minutes later, a foul on Labadie led to a free kick just outside the box. Then it happened. Smith's superb latch-on from the Fotheringham free kick was met by the head of Arquin, and so the ball went into the Liverpool net. 2-1, Liverpool rattled, Notts ecstatic at having breached the Premiership side's clean sheet and seeing where they could go on from there.

From then on it was a very even game, Toure once again striking the post on 69, while Sturridge chanced a header from yet another great Gerrard ball.

This would carry on until the 82nd minute. When something even greater happened. Dispossessing Liverpool in their own half, Notts played a wonderful passing game, getting the ball from McGregor over to Arquin on the right hand side, before the striker advanced deep into the Liverpool box and playing a loose chip-cum-cross into the path of Adam Coombes, who smashed it through the Reds rearguard... and so it was 2-2. Cue raucous celebrations from the home fans and disbelief from the wider world of football fandom and punditdom.

And so the game would end all square... except League Cup games are decided on the night. And so the team with history and prestige couldn't beat Liverpool in 90 minutes... extra time it was to be.

An even first half of extra time, where the only action of note was the injury to Toure, was sadly ended with a tame shot from Sturridge which trickled through Bart's fingers from a tight angle, while the second half saw Jordan Henderson finally apply the finishing touch to Liverpool's hard-fought victory with a burst through the Notts defence followed by a placed shot.

4-2 was the final score, but for the sheer fact that Liverpool had to go to extra time, the result not assured until the 110th minute, shows just how deep Notts County dug and how far they pushed Liverpool, particularly when you consider the home side were cruising at 2-0 after thirty minutes. An amazing atmosphere, an amazing match, and an amazing night for all fans concerned.
Joe Jones

Liverpool - View

This is a pretty special opposition view for us here at Pride of Nottingham. It's certainly not your typical one and although this is no doubt one of my personal favourites, I comment unbiased on how welcoming the responses. I've taken the time to speak with Matt who is currently based in Swansea, he's taken the time to answer our questions for us all to read. Liverpool will no doubt come into the game openly confident - Notts will have to play makeup with a fair portion of our fans but this is a game where they can show us fans what the shirt really means to them. Come On You Pies!

Firstly, could you tell prideofnottingham.co.uk a little about yourself, such as how long you've been a fan for?

I'm Matt originally from Southport (a seaside town with little of note), I've lived in Bournemouth, St ives and currently reside in the Premiership City of Swansea.

I grew up in a none football household in a town around 20 miles from Liverpool and in those type of families you just fall into football, I remember watching England beat San Marino 7-1 (They needed a clear 7 goals to go through and conceded after 10 seconds) and I think I just generally fell in love with heartbreak, I liked Liverpool as it was local enough and my friends on the whole generally supported them, plus the other two Everton and Manchester United had both been teams of my brother in his ever changing youth, so naturally sibling rivalry takes hold.

So far Liverpool have won their opening two games in the Premership, do you feel confident that you can overcome the recent League Cup form?

Losing to Swansea was not the worst result I have witnessed as a fan, and we won it the year before, if you mean general cup runs of recent years then yes, I think Brendan may treat them with a little more respect this season (well I hope so), I think it's a chance for him to get his hands on some silverware and so I think yes we should be though we should always be aware of opposition from the lower leagues.

We lost on Saturday to a late goal at home to Stevenage, who your rivals Everton also face in the same competition. How much would like to see Stevenage win them?

I'm a Liverpool fan, the only reason I would like to see Everton lose is it is less competition if we were to progress and that goes for several other teams, never been the biggest fan of this "anti rival" nastiness that seems to be all over football, a fan of a different club is not scum, he is a fan of football, that is a positive (It's very unique but I guess that relates back to my upbringing).

How are Liverpool fans adjusting to life with Rodger Red Hat?

I think for the majority of Liverpool fans (Though I can't speak for all) we are warming to him, I was a massive fan due to what I saw here in Swansea (Have friends who were able to get me tickets so enjoyed a lot of his first season in the premiership and also some of the promotion push). Others have had to warm to him but yeah he has got this team playing some brilliant football especially in the second half of last season, he had the hardest act to follow so in doing so he has had to work extra hard but on the whole he is a likeable bloke with ideas and the right philosophy he will hopefully go far.

Your currently being linked to Derby County young marvel Will Hughes – How do you feel about this and would you sign him if it were possible?

Will Hughes from what I know and have seen and watched is one of the most exciting prospects so yes of course it would be great but I do feel we need more "now" signings as our youth system looks full of exciting talent.

What are your hopes and aspires for the rest of your season?

Cup runs and a push for fourth, significant improvement on last season though would do, I think a cup win may help Brendan a lot.

What are match days like for you, do you travel home and away? Can you give our fans a typical insight to a Liverpool fans day?

I usually only go to home matches, I enjoy going back north, I tend to travel up on a morning if it is a saturday or if it is an lunchtime or sunday match will stay over with my brother.

I don't get to go to as many Liverpool matches as I want usually around 5 or 6 a season. My typical day would be lots of travel, a pint or two in one of the many locals near Anfield and hopefully an enjoyable 3 points, Stoke was far from enjoyable but probably the most tense and excited anfield had been in a number of years especially with the penalty save at the end.

Do you have any recollections of seeing Notts County play? If so could you please share your memory of this.

Only on Television sadly, I do like to watch alot of football and so was generally excited about the first game of the season which saw the young Liverpool product Conor Coady get a few minutes for Sheffield United, I felt you were unlucky by going down to 10 and kept the game quite tight, I expect you will be a tough opposition for us.

What formation and line-up do you think Brandon Rodgers will choose, do you feel he might field some reserves and rest some first team players?

I think he is more than likely to stick to the formation that has been put out in recent games which is a 4-2-3-1 I would expect him to rest a number of the first team but not as many as some expect, I reckon Sturridge, Toure, Agger, Johnson, Enrique and Aspas will all be missing.

Who do you see as being your main threats towards our defence?

I expect Ibe and Sterling to both play and have both looked good at premier league level, I also expect Borini to finally chip in with a decent finish or two. Sterling though will be key though as he is forever improving.

Do you know much about Notts County – If so, who do you see being a game changer for us?

I don't sorry but I expect your entire team to up for this, a trip to Anfield is always special.

Can you please tell us about Liverpool, Anfield and anything you feel that will be interesting for our travelling fans.

The people are really friendly it is one of the things you'll take away from your visit, also the food outlets across from the ground serve some really excellent grub, I couldn't recommend one as I'm a fan of most of them.

Pride of Nottingham would like to thank Matt for taking the time to answer our questions, we appreciate his responses and it's refreshing to read. I really enjoyed his views on rival clubs and couldn't help but feel the game would better if more fans were the same (excluding a bit of banter of course).
Chris

Liverpool Preview

So, here we are. The cup competitions have gifted us with a fantastic tie against one of the big Premiership teams for the second time in three years. After the double header against eventual FA Cup winners Manchester City, Notts County prepare to travel to none other than Liverpool, one of the most successful and best supported clubs in England, for a League Cup Second Round tie. Liverpool need no introduction. Their history is illustrious and trophy-laden. They have won the league a massive 18 times - though it is best not to mention they've never won it under its current format.

The Premier League - the FA Cup seven times, the UEFA Cup three times, and the pinnacle of European football, the European Cup / Champions' League five times.

Most crucially for Notts, they are the most successful side in the League Cup, having won it eight times. It's a competition they thrive in. All of the above makes it sound like a tall order for Notts County. To knock out a side of such pedigree in the second round would send shockwaves throughout the footballing world.

Notts, though, have played several big teams in the last couple of years, and the majority of the time, have given a very good account of themselves. We were ten minutes away from a famous win against Man City in 2011, held Juventus to a 1-1 draw in the Juventus Arena later on that year, and against Galatasaray, lost out only to a final-minute howitzer from World Cup finalist and Treble-winning Wesley Sneijder. So they should be able to step up their game and give it a good go. They'll have to, after the display against Stevenage.

Liverpool are in good form at the moment. They've won both their Premiership games 1-0 and have plenty of players that are in top form, such as Daniel Sturridge, who scored against Villa.

The Reds are expected to field a second-tier side, however, but this doesn't lessen the threat for the Magpies. Raheem Sterling's recent display against the Scotland Under 21s was nothing short of scintillating, while Fabio Borini netted twice against Manchester United U21s a week ago. Iago Aspas had a marvellous pre-season, netting four and assisting three, and the veteran Martin Skrtel is expected to line up in defence.

All in all this will prove a difficult game for Notts, but as I mentioned before, if the players can give it all they've got on the day, then who's to say we can't at least give them a scare? COYP!
Joe Jones

Stevenage F.C - Action Shots

Pride of Nottingham brings you action shots from the game against Stevenage at Meadow Lane last Saturday. Stevenage managed to score right in the final minutes, taking all 3 points with them in the process. The lads will need to pick them up for tomorrows game and inspire the fans! You can see all the photos from Saturday's match day provided by Oskar Papierz - Mobile users please see the link below which will take you to our gallery - You Pies!
Mobile Users please visit | Gallery

Pride of Nottingham would like to thank Oskar Papierz for allowing us use of his images, we wish him all the best his photography. Here's his Facebook page and Website.
Chris

PoN on One - #4

We see the return of the PoN on One! In this edition we see a little twist as we turn it into a special feature for our Capital One cup tie against Liverpool. I've taken the time to ask two American based fans questions ahead of the tie, whilst throwing in the traditional quiz at the end. We will be following up with an Opposition View tomorrow but if you ever wondered how fans from another country get around timezones etc. We have this covered in this addition! I very much hope you'll enjoy reading this, as it's a feature which brings fans together in a good way. Keep tuned for more news, reports, articles and of course features such as this.

Firstly, could you tell prideofnottingham.co.uk a little about yourself, such as how long you've been a fan for?

Liverpool - Mike; My name is Mike Creuzer, and I've been an EPL fan since I was about 11 give or take, and I'm 22 now so half my life! My brother and I would watch the games when we were younger.

Notts County - Dana; Well Firstly: My name is Dana Shoup. I was born in Ketchikan Alaska, been playing soccer/football my whole life, i'm 29, spent some time in England going to Harlaxton University just outside Grantham. We did a tour of the grounds of Notts County and it was 2003 when Notts was really close to dissolution and literally fans were knitting scarves just to make some extra money for the club. I absolutely fell in love with the notts family after that and I have one of those hand knit scarves proudly up on my wall right now. I did what I could as a broke college student to help. and I've been a big fan since. Become a lot more involved in the last few years though.

What's it like being a fan of an English club in America – For example do you find it difficult keeping tabs on the games?

Liverpool - Mike; Here in the States, American football is the primary sport and to get soccer/world football, let alone EPL, you have to pay for special channels. We used to pay for it until it was too expensive. Since then, I stream online or catch the game at a local bar. It is very very difficult to stay on par, but I do what I can to catch the noteworthy matches.

Notts County - Dana; It's Hard to be a fan so far away, especially cause every game you want to be at Meadow Lane chanting with the rest, but thank the internet and things like Twitter and Facebook to really keep close on games and how all the fans are feeling, being able to talk with players, owners, board members, it really has let me become more involved and I'm thrilled about it. Biggest problem really is being able to watch the games, obviously with Notts being lower in the divisions, i'm stuck with watching a lot of Premier games. And at least if I can't buy season tickets, there's options like sponsering players or Lifeline to help out from afar.

Can you please tell us what you know about the opposition your team faces and how you feel the Capital One Cup game will go?

Liverpool - Mike; I know very little about Notts other than they are a very old and well respected club. Probably not wise to say to Notts fans but I'm not too worried. Liverpool have won this cup more than anyone else, so they clearly understand what needs to be done. We have a young side but a strong one. We do have some issues we need to clean up in the back, though, so it'll be interesting to see how things play out.

Notts County - Dana; I know Liverpool enough to know they didnt have the best year last year, they have quite the Biter on their team, Gerrard who they have had forever has been amazing for them. Just like how I love Notts being the oldest club in the world, I have a love for players that stay with their club for a long time as well. Obviously Liverpool wont start their best squad, I hope we can take advantage of that, maybe knock in a few quickly and maybe knock them up a bit to take away their confidence, if they can do that, we can pull it off!

Who's your current favourite player and why?

Liverpool - Mike; Gerrard. He has always been a solid presence of fortitude not just as Liverpool's skipper but for England as well. Got a fantastic boot on him and I certainly hope he has many more years left in him. Carra retiring was tough, he was a close second.

Notts County - Dana; Favorite Player.... I was a massive fan of Bart and Spiess last year, just love the amount of wonderful saves they have done for us. Bart has taken some knocks but he just keeps being an amazing player/goalkeeper for us. And because he has, He has really made it to where I think we can win against anyone. I've seen undefeated teams lose to a team that shot just one shot while that undefeated team shot 30 plus times and their goalkeeper saved some 20 shots. I just really appreciate what goalkeepers do out there. Its the one position I just have no ability to play.

Lastly – What were your reaction to the cup draw and what are your expectations for the season?

Liverpool - Mike; I'm looking forward to catching a good number of these games. Bristol City/Crystal Palace, Doncaster Rovers/Leeds, and of course Liverpool/Notts. As for the season as a whole, really interested to see what's going to happen with some of these transfers. Looking forward to watching a great season!

Notts County - Dana; Reaction to the cup draw... I mean I'm all about moving on in the cup so I would have liked to see maybe an easier opponent, but I would say getting a bigger club early, they may be more relaxed, not far enough in the cup yet to be really determined or in better form so its a stronger possibility that we can pull of a stunner and of course more money for the club is always a benefit in my mind. I'd love to see us pull off a run like Bradford City. and Expectations, every year from the start til the end, I'm hoping and shooting for promotion, I know we lost some key players, but I will back Notts no matter what and believe we can pull off anything. Cause it comes down to 90+ minutes and honestly anything can happen. I had a scoring drought one soccer season and suddenly one game I had 4 goals and 3 assists, I couldnt do anything wrong and it was against a good team. You just never know.

-Quiz-

Q1) In which year did Anfield open and what is the current capacity of the stadium? (closet to both figures will get the full points)

Liverpool - Mike; 1884, and I have no idea but I'd guess at maybe a bit over 40,000

Notts County - Dana; 1884 and 45,525

Q2) What was the score the last time Notts played Liverpool at Anfield?

Liverpool - Mike; I have absolutely no idea.

Notts County - Dana; 4-0 Liverpool in 1991-1992 Season

Q3) Have Everton ever ground shared with Liverpool – Yes or No?

Liverpool - Mike; Oh I doubt that very much, too tough a rivalry for that.

Notts County - Dana; No, I think Everton moved to Goodison Park and then Liverpool was formed and took over Anfield after Everton left. So they didnt share grounds at the same time. Ha I think I'm guessing this right.

Q4) Who were Liverpool's highest goalscorers last season and also who were Notts County's?

Liverpool - Mike; Suarez had 10 or 11 and Gerrard had 5. I've only ever watched a few Notts games, we rarely get any Championship or L1 here.

Notts County - Dana; Suarez, Sturridge, Gerrard and JCR, Judgey, Arquin, and Bishop

Q5) Steve Finnan had a successful career with both clubs – How much did Notts County sign him for and how much was he later sold for. Please combine your two answers and let us know the figure roughly?

Liverpool - Mike; Finnan was on the 2005 CL side, but I don't know how much he was purchased for or sold for.
Don't be too tough on me fellas. I cant name every player or every game final, and I can hardly say I know a lot about the history of Liverpool or any other club. But I will say that football in the UK is the best sport in the world. The passion from the fans, the skill from the players, the intensity of the matches, all make me love every minute. Thanks for the opportunity to talk with you, got one hell of a community here!

Notts County - Dana; 300,000 and sold for 600,000 for Notts, So made a good 300k off of him, not too bad

Final Score

Mike - 2
Dana - 4

Pride of Nottingham would like to thank both Mike and Dana for taking part in this feature, it's something we hope to do more often, so if you're interested in taking part please contact me.
Chris

Notts County 0-1 Stevenage

Four league games into the season, Notts County still have just one point to their name, after a toothless, substandard performance against Stevenage FC at Meadow Lane. In a match where both teams struggled to gain a foothold into the game, the Hertfordshire side pounced on a defensive error to score in the final minute, courtesy of James Dunne. As has been mentioned here before, a curious refereeing performance hindered Notts on occasions, but they should have come away with at least a point against lacklustre opposition. The Magpies recalled Gary Liddle to defence, after his three-match ban for his sending off in the season opener against Sheffield United.

The side was slightly weakened, however, as Alan Sheehan, Dean Leacock and Danny Haynes were all missing. Greg Tempest, Manny Smith and Adam Coombes were in the starting XI in their place.

The first meaningful action of the game involved the Stevenage goalkeeper, Chris Day, handling the ball outside his box after a long punt by Notts keeper Bartosz Bialkowski which was within the reaches of Coombes. Normally warranting a red card, Day wasn't punished.

Not long after, David Bell's free kick caused havoc in the Stevenage box, pinballing into the path of Liddle, but his volley wasn't a problem for Day.

On twenty minutes, Tempest's good cross fell to Yoann Arquin, but he failed to control and Day once again saved.

The covering left-back provided another good cross on 25, but Roarie Deacon did well to flick it away.

On 33 minutes, Stevenage finally threatened, Robin Shroot firing a 30-yard shot which was easily saved. Four minutes later, Bart was finally called into action, Darius Charles' curled shot being acrobatically palmed away. Up until then, Notts had been huffing and puffing, without quite blowing the defences away.

Just before the interval, Callum McGregor and Shroot, for Notts and Stevenage respectively, fired over the opposition crossbars.

After the fifteen-minute break, in which yours truly checked the football results to see whether his accumulators were holding up, a cigarette in the designated smoking area and the purchase and consumption of one of the very tasty Cornish pasties from the catering section, the game restarted with Notts nearly taking the lead, a Liddle header nearly falling to Coombes, before Jon Ashton headed over his own crossbar and to safety.

After a couple more half-chances, Charles split the Notts defence wide open, allowing Shroot a one-on-one opportunity against Bart. However, he and Liddle did enough to thwart the danger.

On 72, Jeremy Balmy made his debut, in place of Adam Coombes.

The referee, regularly calling fouls on seemingly innocuous Notts challenges while letting Stevenage tugs and tackles slide, kept incurring the ire of the home fans in the Kop, the chants reaching a nadir when Mark Fotheringham was booked for dissent.

Notts continued to push for a goal, but the vast majority of play was conducted through the wings as opposed to midfield, and virtually every cross was deflected away from goal by the Stevenage defence. Balmy, in particular, may have not been ready yet for the first team, for he made several mistakes in the final third.

Stevenage are known for being a bogey team for Notts in recent years, and sadly for the sanity and blood pressure of the home faithful, this trend continued when Shroot's ball took a deflection and fell to Dunne, who converted from close range in the final minute.

One of the most frustrating performances I have seen from Notts, there are things which need to be addressed urgently, because I do not wish to be supporting a League Two team next season. More cohesion is needed, less focus on single players - Bell was the key man today, and even though he was good, we cannot rely on one player all the time - and more care and thought needs to go in the substitutions, because today they were not very well executed.
Joe Jones

Stevenage F.C Preview

Pressure on the Pies - Fortress Meadow Lane holds play to a Notts team looking to break their maiden this weekend and strike up their first win of the 2013/4 season campaign. The visitors, Stevenage, arrive as one of only 3 teams not to score a point this season. Albeit one of those teams is Coventry who are on -4 points having started on -10, after having a point deduction for going into administration back in March. Notts have not been in imperious form themselves so far, facing stiff tasks against two promotion favourites, Peterborough and Sheffield United.

Notts will take heart though from the last 30 minutes against Walsall where a much improved display with attacking football started to come to fruition.

No doubts about it, Notts really need to be picking up three points here. It is Notts easiest task to date, facing a Stevenage team well out of form. Even more emphasis is placed on the need for a Notts win as last season’s poor home record was a major reason for a lack of points on the table.

David Bell looked the part for Notts against Walsall and although sure not to be match-fit, Kiwomya will surely want to get him on the field to show what he can do again. It will a fascinating what Kiwomya decides to do with Gary Liddle.

Manny Smith has lacked any run in the side for over a year, but he has improved with every minute he has been on the pitch. I hope he gets his chance to retain the centre back spot with Liddle tried in midfield. It’s the middle of the park in which Notts need to be more effective, and so I feel it would be worth a gamble to try Liddle out in the middle of the park.

Graham Westley will hope to keep things tight and hit Notts on the counter attack as they so sorely did in a 2-1 defeat at home last time. Freeman and Shroot look the main dangers in the Stevenage side, but Notts are more than capable of shutting them out.

I will be very pleased if Kiwomya really goes for this one and puts out an attacking line up to show the fans what this side can do. Playing it defensively against this side will only make the game tenser and a point will be fairly dissatisfying.

So come on you pies!
By James Constantine
UniPie

Stevenage F.C - Revisited

On the 4th of February 2013, on the back of the dismissal of then manager Keith Curle. Pride of Nottingham took to asking questions ahead of our opposition view, a feature where we collect the views of fans from other League One teams. We spoke to a Boro fan called 'Chris' and he provided us with his thoughts ahead of game and we decided to take time out and catch up with Chris, has he made some interesting comments regarding his clubs progress. So although we have already done our main opposition view - you might find it insightful to see how he feels now.

Last season you finished 18th, when we approached you last time you mentioned "As I've said I'm predicting a lower mid-table finish for us" How content were you with this finish?

Not happy. I didn't expect us to continue our brilliant form for the entire season, but the way in which we collapsed under Smith after the new year was extremely demoralising.

You also mentioned that none of your players posed a threat to us last season, how have things changed and did you have promising signs pre-season?

We've shipped out some of the players who seemed to put too little effort in, and brought in players who perhaps don't have the same level of natural ability but will give everything for the cause. Player to watch now would, in my opinion, be Darius Charles - whether he plays left back, centre back, or up front!

After 3 opening games, it's a little too early to see the bigger picture but how do you feel about the start to the 2013/14 campaign?

There are promising signs, but we need to start picking the points up sooner rather than later.

What did you make of the appointment of Graham Westley?

I was happy with it. Didn't understand the anger when he left, Preston being the massive club they are. After a torrid time under Smith we needn't somebody who would get the most out of our limited resources.

What formation do you see Westley choosing, along with the starting 11 players?

Previously he's generally stuck with 4-4-2, occasionally with a 4-5-1 away from home. Favoured line-up possibly being: Day; Wedgbury, Jones, Ashton (Captain Fantastic), Hartley; Morais, Dunne, Tansey, Freeman; López, Charles

How do you see this season going and where do you see Stevenage finishing?

Probably about the same as last season, but with hopeful signs for next season and a squad that the manager gets the most out of! I'll say 17th.

If you found this to be interesting, why not have a read of the Opposition View from last season.

Last Seasons Opposition View - Read Here

This Seasons Opposition View - Read Here

Pride of Nottingham would like to thank you for taking the time to read this update, we hope you find these to be interesting and we would like to throw our appreciation to Chris for providing us once again with his views.
Chris

Stevenage F.C - View

Notts County obviously come into this game in a very similar situation, after lost their opening two games and coming away from Walsall having earned a draw. Stevenage haven't yet collected a single point, as they have lost all three of their opening games. They lost 3-4 to Oldham on the 3rd of August and narrowly lost by one goal each to Swindon and Leyton Orient. Pride of Nottingham's taken the time to speak with traveling fan Gareth, who has kindly taken time out of his evening to answer our questions. We hope you enjoy this feature and find it to be useful information - You Pies!

Firstly, could you tell prideofnottingham.co.uk a little about yourself, such as how long you've been a fan for?

I'm 28 years old and been a fan for about 8 years now.

How do you feel about the ending of last seasons campaign and did you query any of the players who were released?

Was quite releaved to see the back of last season really. Was a complete disaster from about October time. No queries about any of the players that were released, I trust the managers judgement over my own.

Can you tell me about your pre-season, the signings you've made and how things were generally with the club with regards to the new season?

Pre-season was generally successful. Had quite a few new faces brought in again and they look decent, Sam Wedgbury especially at right back has stood out. We had a good victory over a QPR team that had a few first team players in the squad, We were on par with a strong Leeds team for 60 minutes before conceding a couple of goals. Smashed my hometown team of Biggleswade 6-0 in what was a very enjoyable day.

After 3 opening games, it's a little too early to see the bigger picture but how do you feel about the start to the 2013/14 campaign?

Although results don't lie, and we have lost all 3 league matches so far, I've seen some promising signs from most of the new players. We had an excellent victory in the cup against Ipswich sandwiched between our league games which was a nice one to win.

Realistically how do you see Saturday ending and are you confident about the game?

I'd be happy with a point on Saturday, just so we can get off the mark and I suspect that is what we will get out of the game.

How do you see your season going and where do you think you will finish?

Graham Westley has always been known to have a strong finish to the season. I think we won 14 out of our last 15 matches when we won the conference, conceding only 3 goals in the process. I can't really see us troubling the promotion places this season, top half would be an excellent season in my eyes. I always tell everyone that I think we will finish top of the bottom third this season. In reality anything above the relegation places will do just nicely.

Out of all the League One clubs, which have you been looking forward to seeing and why?

I'm most looking forward to visiting Peterboro away, Mainly because it is local and will make for a good drinking opportunity. I've actually watched Peterboro vs Notts County twice over the years, as a friend of mine has a Notts County supporting Dad so I tagged along a couple of times.

Which Stevenage players would you see posing a threat to the Notts County defence?

Luke Freeman is always a threat when on the ball and can create a chance out of nothing. Greg Tansey will also cause trouble if he has his shooting boots on and Darius Charles will be a handful if he plays as a striker for this one.

Who would you have marked on Saturday and who would you point out to be our danger-men?

Enoch Showumni sounds like he has had a decent start to the season so I reckon he could be the danger man.

Averagely how many games do you make in a season, including cup games?

I make every home league and cup games and always try to make it to about 4 or 5 away games.

League One is understandably harder this season, we've seen some big clubs fall and some others return to it. Who do you feel will go up this season?

Probably the toughest set of teams in league 1 since we entered it. I have money on Wolves to win the league so I expect them to go up. Could be joined by any out of about 10 teams but I expect Peterboro to grab the runners up place and Brentford to win the play-offs after just missing out last season .

Finally, what are the positives you can point out about your team right now?

Positives about the team is that the players now seem to always give 110%. They may not technically be the best players in the league but you can guarantee that anyone that plays under Graham Westley will give it their absolute all. Were in a bit of a transition period again with a lot of changes to the squad since the end of last season so it's going to take time for the team to gel properly but I think we should be Ok.

Pride of Nottingham would like to thank Gareth for taking the time to answer our questions. Please keep tuned for a special update from one of our previous opposition fans, as we catch up with Chris. A Boro fan who we spoke to last season.
Chris

Walsall 1-1 Notts County

A determined Notts finally got their first point of the season as they battled to a 1-1 draw away at the Banks's Stadium against Walsall. Romaine Sawyers opened the scoring at the start of the second half, before substitute Yoann Arquin levelled with just over fifteen minutes to go. However, controversy reigned as Arquin had a perfectly good goal not given, and another given offside, both late in the second half. Chris Kiwomya reinstated Manny Smith to the heart of defence, the ex-Saddler back from his suspension, so Alan Sheehan and Mustapha Dumbuya were back to their rightful full-back positions. Tempest was on the bench after his game at left-back last week.

Notts started brightly, Danny Haynes firing a shot within the first minute which flew across the face of goal. At the other end, Ashley Hemmings attempted a chip, but it was well-blocked.

A lot happening within the first few minutes, a mistake by Mal Benning allowed Enoch Showunmi to thread through to Jamal Campbell-Ryce, whose shot was rather innocuous, before, again at the other end, ex-Notts player Craig Westcarr failed to control the ball properly after rounding Bartosz Bialkowski.

The lively start continued with Sawyers fouling Joss Labadie on the fifth minute, giving Notts a free-kick 25 yards out. Labadie fired a powerful shot which was skilfully saved by Richard O'Donnell.

The Notts midfielder would get booked just three minutes later, his reprisal on Sawyers sending him into the book.

More half chances continued to come the way of both teams, before Callum McGregor came very close to opening the scoring, but the Walsall keeper managed to get just enough on the ball to prevent this.

The fouls and subsequent free kicks kept coming, with Westcarr coming under particular scrutiny from the Notts defenders, but the middle period of the second half didn't see anything more concrete materialise.

Dean Leacock also went into the book after half an hour for getting one too many fouls in after Westcarr was targeted again.

Towards the latter end of the first half, Danny Haynes received a knock and was subbed off, to be replaced by ex-Chelsea forward Adam Coombes.

The half ended with a cracking chance to put Notts 1-0 up, again by Scottish starlet McGregor, with an effort which sailed just over the bar.

Sadly, as with other games this season, Notts found themselves at the end of a sucker-punch, because within the first few minutes of the second half, Walsall found themselves 1-0 up, Sawyers' powerful right-foot attempt from 25 yards beating Bart on 49 minutes.

A shell-shocked Notts struggled to pick themselves up from this setback, as Westcarr and Hemmings added to the Walsall chances within a few minutes.

Just before the hour, Mark Fotheringham had a good attempt to equalise, but his shot went wide. Westcarr countered with a good run and shot for Walsall which shook the net - from the back luckily.

David Bell's introduction, in place of JCR, seemed to invigorate the team, as Notts pushed on in a bid to get this equaliser. Bell had several cracking chances on 64 and 68 minutes, which gave the travelling Notts fans a bit of a kick-start after the setback.

Better was to come for the Magpies, as substitute Arquin, who scored the equaliser against the Saddlers six months ago, repeated this feat by levelling the score with a close-range header. Credit goes to Sheehan for providing a great cross from the left wing.

As the invigorated Notts fans called for a winner, a controversial goalmouth incident took place on the Walsall goalmouth, as Arquin beat O'Donnell to a header and it looked to have gone in, but the linesman didn't give it.

In injury time, Arquin again had the ball in the net, but this was given as offside, and as a result, the game finished 1-1. A hard-earned away point as Notts finally take themselves off nul points, but what will it be made of the disallowed goals at the end of the second half?
Joe Jones

Walsall Preview

This Saturday Notts will make the relatively short trip to the Black Country to take on Walsall at the Banks's Stadium. The Magpies have started the season badly, losing both league games against Sheffield United and Peterborough, while the Saddlers have a 100% record so far in competitive football this season, winning both their league games and their Capital One cup tie. Furthermore, Walsall haven't yet lost a competitive game at home this calendar year - their last loss was on Tuesday 13th November 2012, crashing out to Lincoln City in the FA Cup Second round.

Their defeat to Swindon Town a week before was their last loss in the league. The head to head record doesn't reveal much - the last game between Notts and Walsall was just six months ago, when the teams shared points in a 1-1 draw at the Banks Stadium. The reverse at Meadow Lane, in August 2012, saw the Saddlers win 1-0. The 2011/12 season, however, saw Notts defeat Walsall twice in the league. In addition, the West Midlands team haven't beaten Notts at home since 2006.

The player to watch for Walsall is winger James Baxendale. Having recently signed a three-year deal at the club, he is full of confidence at the moment, and his last two games saw him scoring in each. Meanwhile Craig Westcarr, the ex-Notts player, netted a brace against Tranmere in the season opener, and always relishes encounters against his old club.

Both team have relatively full squads to pick from, with Manny Smith back for Notts after his suspension. Gary Liddle, who received a straight red in the first game of the season, will have completed his suspension after today. Walsall, meanwhile, have defender Andy Taylor on the sick list, still recovering from an injury.

Even though it's early days, Notts crucially need to get points on board sooner rather than later, but Walsall are in form and may provide a stern challenge. My prediction: a 1-1 draw.

Joe Jones
Joe Jones

Walsall - View

This week for the Walsall game we've taken to asking our very own Saddlers resident on Pride of Nottingham, SadLad who originally joined us after seeing me request for a fans view. He's taken the time to answer 12th questions which are hoped to provide us Notts fans with a general insight into the game on Saturday. Walsall come into the game having not lost any of their opening matches, which will see Notts attempt to notch up our first point or fingers crossed we can leave having taken all three! Pride of Nottingham hopes you enjoy one of our most popular features.

Firstly, could you tell prideofnottingham.co.uk a little about yourself, such as how long you've been a fan for?

I have been supporting Walsall for just over 47 years. My first match was on 23rd April 1966 V Oldham Athletic. I can remember bits of it even now, all these years on. That was the only match I went to that season. Like most boys of my age (I was eight then) I was hooked to football in general that summer with all the hype of the World Cup and England actually winning it! I knew then I had to get myself down Fellows Park for the first game of the 1966-7 season and I have been following Walsall FC ever since. We played at that ground up to 1990 so I had 24 seasons of watching my football at dear old Fellows Park and now 23 seasons at Bescot Stadium.I have been a season ticket holder for the last 28 seasons and I rarely miss an away match.

How have things been in pre-season and which signings are leaving an early impression?

We had a bit of an unsual start to our pre-season as we went on a three match tour of Trinidad and Tobago of all places! It was by invitation as a Scottish club had to back out and it cost the club nothing as we merely took their place! Walsall were unbeaten in those games, winning 2 and drawing one. Back home there were three home games againt Leeds United which we won 1-0 followed by a 1-2 defeat to Nottm Forest and a 0-5 reverse to Aston Villa, just three days before the opening day of the league season. Dean Smith didn't want to risk any injuries so put out a team of young fringe players and a couple of trialists whereas Villa put out their first team. New signings have been goalkeeper Richard O' Donnell plus Milan Lalkovic,Troy Hewitt, Romaine Sawyers and James Mc Quilkin. The keeper, O'Donnell, is gaining confidence all the while but the one the fans are raving about is striker Lalkovic who is on a six months loan from Chelsea.

Walsall have got off to a flying start, are you happy with the opening performances?

Indeed, Walsall have got off to a flyer with a 3-1 home win against Tranmere Rovers and last Saturday a 1-0 victory at Oldham. In between was a 2-1 Capital One win at Port Vale. The Tranmere game was a continuation of our for from the final third of last season, playing their own brand of 'sexy football.' The oldham game was a combination of good football and sound defending. Pott Vale was a tough one but we played well enough. Yes overall delighted with the start.

Are you familiar with signings made by Notts County and what are your thoughts on us signing Danny Haynes?

Of the signings you have made this summer the ones I know about are Mark Fotheringham and Danny Haynes. The former I remember from his days at Celtic and also Norwich City. Danny Hayes I remember him playing for the likes of Bristol City and Ipswich Town. Both midfielders who should provide some bite for County.

Which League One teams do you feel have made the best summer signings and why?

I would have to say Sheffield United. They seem to have covered all departments and the stand out ones are Stephen Mc Ginn, a centre midfielder from Watford, Sean McGinty a young centre back from Manchester United and a player we all know about from his season at Walsall, Febian Brandy. He has got pace and an eye for goal and I can see him grabbing his fair share of goals this season.

Who do you see struggling this season and who would your four relegated predictions be?

Tranmere, Crawley, Stevenage and Shrewsbury.

How pleased are you with Craig Westcarr and in general do you like him as a footballer?

Craig Westcarr! Has done a great job this season. I do like him as a footballer yes. He holds the ball up so well and has scored some goals already this term. He seems to have lost a bit of weight . He took a long time to actually sign a contract over the summer and there were fears he would go but no, to the delight of the fans he has signed.

Can you please share a good memory and a disappointing memory from watching Notts as a Sadler fan?

Good memory- at Meadow Lane for the Play Off Semi Final in 1987-8 season. On a warm sunny afternoon, Craig Shakespeare and a brace from hot-shot David Kelly saw Saddlers home. Willie Naughton produced a superb ball for 'Shakey' to slot home. One of Kelly's goals was a checky back flick which caught the defence out big time. 'Ned' always claims he meant it.

Bad memory- same season in the league game back end of April at Fellows Park, Although Saddlers won 2-1, a reckless tackle by Derek Kevan in the first minute effectively ended Paul Jones's career. There was absolutely no need for it and the game was held up for a long time after the bad leg break. I chatted to Paul Jones last season at a game at Walsall and 25 years on he is still disappointed with that tackle.

Tell us who you feel will be Notts County's key players and who you'd have mark them?

A great battle should be between Anoch Showunmi and Andy Butler! Two powerful men and they have had some interesting tussles in the past when Tranmere played Walsall. Enoch is about four inches taller mind! Adam Chambers and Andy Fothringham should be another good contest I feel.

Out of your offensive players, which do you see posing a risk to Notts County's defence?

Craig Westcarr and Nilan Lalkovic will be the main ones but don't rule out midfielder Sam Mantom who strikes the ball well. Winger James Baxendale has alreader scored two as well.

Where do you see Walsall and Notts finishing? Also, who do you see automatically gaining promotion?

Sheffield United have come so close the last couple of years and I think it will be their team to gain automatic promotion. Wolverhampton Wanderers will surely take another automatic spot. Kenny Jacket is the man to lead them back up the leagues I feel. MK Dons may sneek in to. Walsall should finish 7th, just missing out on the play offs, but a slight improvement on last season and Notts Coumty I would say 12th spot.

Please tell us about Walsall and the surrounding area, including Bescot Stadium?

Walsall is about 10 miles north of Birmingham and has a population of over 250,000. It was once a very thriving industrial town best known for its many leather works which was the trade from which the town's football team took its knickname 'The Saddlers'. There were dozens of small leather works who specialised in saddles manufacturing. Walsall Football Club is in the suburb of Bescot, to the south of the town about two miles from the centre. The M6 motorway runs right by the stadium in an elevated section. The Walsall - Birmingham railway line also runs nearby and Bescot Stadium Station is just two minues walk to the away end. The nearest motorway junction (Junction 9 of the M6) is only about a mile away and the large supermarket on the way to the junction (Morrison's) is where the former Fellows Park once stood.

Pride of Nottingham would like to thank our very Walsall resident SadLad for taking the time to answer our questions, we wish Walsall all the very best with their season ahead.
Chris

We've Met Before...

The title of this article is a bit of an understatement when it comes to Notts County v Walsall. The clubs have been playing eachother fairly regularly for 119 years now and this Saturday's match will be the 61st competitive meeting between the two. Notts just edge it on the history - winning 25 of the previous 60 meetings compared to Walsall's wins. There have also been 15 draws. Notts have scored 103 goals against Walsall, while they've scored 81 against us. The first meeting between the two clubs took place way back on 20th January 1894 in a Second Division game.

Back then Walsall were known as Walsall Town Swifts, as they were founded in 1888 following the amalgamation of the town's two original football clubs - Walsall Town and Walsall Swifts.

Notts won that first meeting 2-0 thanks to goals from Dan Bruce and Alf Shelton.

They visited Walsall's Fellows Park ground for the first time later that season on 12th March but were beaten 2-1. Jimmy Logan got Notts' only goal that day, and just 19 days later he would go on to write himself into Notts County folklore by scoring a hat-trick in the FA Cup final at The Oval, as Notts beat Bolton 4-1.

The following season, Notts beat Walsall 5-0 at Meadow Lane on Christmas Day thanks to goals from David Calderhead, Sam Donnelly, and a hat-trick from Jimmy Logan. The 5 goal margin remains the equal biggest win for Notts against The Saddlers.

The 1894-95 season saw Notts finish 3rd in the Second Division but the Magpies lost their promotion Test Match 2-1 to Derby County.

In 1896 Walsall Town Swifts became Walsall FC, but the new name didn't give them anymore luck, as they were beaten 5-2 on 14th November. Two months later, Notts achieved their first ever win at Fellows Park thanks to two goals from John Murphy, and one from Ernest Bell.

Notts were promoted to Division One at the end of the 1896-97 season, and the clubs didn't meet again until 3rd April 1931 in a division Three South game. Notts equalled their biggest margin of victory againt The Saddlers, with two goals from Tom Fenner, a goal from Tom Keetley, and a hat-trick from Harold Andrews securing a 6-1 win for The Magpies.

The two sides met again just 3 days later but Walsall gained some revenge with a 1-0 win. That was one of just 7 defeats Notts suffered all season on their way to the league title. They finished with 59 points - 8 clear of second placed Crystal Palace.

Notts travelled to Walsall on the final day of the 1936-37 season for what was a huge game for both sides. Notts were second in the table, 2 points adrift of Luton Town and if Notts won and Luton lost, there was a chance Notts could steal the title. Walsall on the other hand faced relegation if they lost and other results went against them. The Saddlers won the game 2-1 to secure their safety and keep Notts down.

Notts got a bit of revenge the following season though. Walsall struggled again and Notts' 3-1 win at Meadow Lane on the penultimate day all-but confirmed Walsal's relegation.

The two ides met in Cup Competition for the first time in 1939 in an FA Cup 4th round tie. The original game at Meadow Lane ended 0-0, but Walsall won the replay 4-0 five days later.

The 1959-60 season in Division Four was a thriller for both clubs. The two spent most of the season fighting for promotion and by the time the two sides met on consecutive days in April, they were first and second in the table. Walsall led the way and had a fairly healthy cushion over Notts.

The first meeting took place on 18th April in front of 22,728 at Meadow Lane. They saw The Magpies win 2-1 thanks to goals from Don Roby and Tony Hateley. This narrowed the gap to five points with four games left.

The two met again in front of 14,752 at Fellows Park the following day and it ended 2-2 - Notts' goals coming from Alan Withers and Bobby Forrest (strange name to have as a Notts player!).

Notts drew one and won two of their final three but it wasn't enough to secure the title. Both sides were promoted though.

The two had good first seasons back in Division Three - Notts finishing 5th, but Walsall went one better and made it back-to-back promotions with a second place finish.

Given the fairly regular nature of the meetings between the two sides over the years, it might surprise you to learn that it took Walsall until 24th October 1963 for their first ever win at Meadow Lane - nearly 70 years after the clubs first met. They won 1-0 on what was their 15th visit to Meadow Lane. Notts finished bottom of Divison Three that season.

It took Walsall a further 25 years to earn their second win at Meadow Lane but it was a pretty important one.

The two met in the Division Three play-offs in 1988 and The Saddlers ran out 3-1 winners at Meadow Lane. Notts couldnt turn it around in the second leg, which ended in a 1-1 draw and Walsall went on to beat Bristol City in the final.

They were relegated straight back to Divison Three the following season, and on 7th October 1989, Notts visited Fellows Park for what would be the last time. It ended 2-2 - Tommy Johnson and Mark Draper getting the goals for Notts who would go on to win promotion via the play-offs under Neil Warnock. Walsall on the other hand made it back-to-back relegations amid financial worries.

We didn't meet again until 1996 when we were both back in Division Two, and Notts visited Walsall's new Bescot Stadium for the first time on 10th February, the match ended 0-0.

The Saddlers picked up what remains their biggest win over Notts on 30th September 2000, with a 5-1 win at the Bescot. That was also Notts' heaviest defeat of what was an otherwise decent season which saw us finish 8th in Divison Two.

Most Walsall fans' best memory of playing Notts probably came on 14th April 2007 at Meadow Lane. A 2-1 victory sealed their promotion to league one, and they went on to secure the league title thanks to a last minute equaliser at Swindon on the final day, after Hartlepool were beaten at home by Bristol Rovers.

Notts were of course promoted to League One in 2010 and achieved their first win at the Bescot on New Years' Day 2011 with a 3-0 win. The return fixture ended 1-1 a month later, just days after Notts held Manchester City to a draw in the FA Cup.

Last season's meeting Saw Walsall win 1-0 at Meadow Lane thanks to Andy Butler's goal ten minutes from time on a frustrating afternoon for The Magpies.

Yoann Arquin's second half strike was enough to earn Notts a share of the spoils in the return fixture.

Thats the very long and hopefully interesting history of matches between Notts County and Walsall (well I've found researching it interesting!).

It should be a good game on Saturday. Walsall have made a strong start with 3 wins out of 3 in league and cup, but Notts have a point to prove. A result of any sort on Saturday would be good against a strong side.

I for one would take a repeat of the result there on 31st January 2012 - a scrappy 1-0 win for Notts!

COYP!
weymouthPIE

Notts Co 2-4 Peterborough United

Notts County were on the receiving end of a 4-2 beating today as Peterborough United's experienced strikeforce cut through the Magpies' makeshift defence on various occasions. The Notts defence, missing Gary Liddle and Manny Smith, saw Alan Sheehan playing centre back and young Greg Tempest at left back. Chris Kiwomya opted for the 4-4-2 formation which worked well in the 3-2 win against Fleetwood in midweek, Danny Haynes and Enoch Showunmi lining up front together.

Notts began brightly, winning a corner within the first two minutes, but at the other end, a dangerous Peterborough tested Bartosz Bialkowski just two minutes later, the Pole reacting superbly to deflect the shot with his legs.

A high-octane start to the match continued with a shot by Jamal Campbell-Ryce, who fired a threatening shot from outside the Posh box, before the Posh came raging back at the other end, Britt Assombalonga claiming a penalty as he fell in the box, but this wasn't given.

Notts then threatened again, Callum McGregor and Tempest combining to set up JCR for a long-range shot which was deflected to safety.

On eleven minutes, Haynes was brought down by Posh captain Tommy Rowe outside the box, but Sheehan's free kick was off the mark.

Further shots were traded between the two teams, before Notts finally broke the deadlock, Magpies skipper Dean Leacock powering a header into the Posh net. 1-0 to Notts, credit going to Mustapha Dumbuya for the pinpoint cross which was brilliantly converted by Deano.

Unfortunately, this lead wasn't to last more than a few minutes, as Peterborough, awoken from their semi-slumber, stepped it up a gear, Tommy Rowe converting the corner after Grant McCann's attempt was saved by Bart.

The next ten minutes would be all Posh, as an Assombalonga goal was blown offside, while Tyrone Barnett also threatened with a back-post header.

The pendulum would swing County's way for the final five or so minutes, as McGregor came close twice. However, half-time would be deadlocked at 1-1.

The second half saw Notts step up the pressure once again as they did in the latter stages of the second half, Haynes, Enoch Showunmi and JCR coming close, but then came the sucker punch: Peterborough managed to break, and from the counter-attack, completely split the Notts defence, and a virtually unmarked Barnett tucked it away past Sheehan and underneath Bart. 2-1.

Things were to get worse as a Lee Tomlin was fouled in the box by Mark Fotheringham, and a penalty was gifted to Posh. McCann stepped up, and to add insult to injury, fired a beautifully chipped shot which Antonin Panenka and Andrea Pirlo would have been proud of. 3-1 Posh, Notts with a mountain to climb.

Outrageously, a cast-iron penalty appeal, which was clearly handed in the area, was turned down, which incensed both the Notts crowd, who rang with some of the loudest boos heard in a long time at Meadow Lane, and the players, who made their disbelief vehemently clear to the referee.

And to compound Notts' misery, a mis-hit header by Tempest, who had been impressive and solid all game, gifted possession to Assombalonga, who had an easy run on goal before firing past Bart. 4-1, a crushing scoreline reflective of the Magpies' makeshift defence and the powerful Posh strikeforce.

Notts did eventually pull a goal back, as Gabriel Zakuani handled in the area, this instance being seen and awarded by the referee, and Yoann Arquin converted to make the scoreline a bit more respectable.

4-2 was how the game would end. The Notts performance wasn't at all deserving of such a battering scoreline, but defensive mistakes cost us dear. It is hoped that this kind of scoreline is merely an exception, and once Manny Smith and Gary Liddle return, with Sheehan restored to left-back, this won't happen again.
Joe Jones

Peterborough Utd - Action Shots

Pride of Nottingham is once again delighted to be able to bring you some action shots of yesterdays game, which saw Notts lose 4-2 to Peterborough United at home. Again, the crowd was very impressive at times and good support shown throughout. We're sure Notts will bounce back, two games in and two very hard teams, leaves the feeling that we can only climb from here on. We now leave you to view the photos which have kindly been submitted to us, you find mine own snaps, along with Oskar's. Mobile users please see the link below which will take you to our gallery - You Pies!
Mobile Users please visit | Gallery

Pride of Nottingham would like to thank Oskar Papierz for allowing us use of his images, we wish him all the best his photography. Here's his Facebook page and Website.
Chris

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