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PON_News
Ruben Rodrigues has announced his departure from Meadow Lane after a three-year stint.
The 26-year-old Portuguese player has been a crucial member of the team since joining from the Netherlands in 2020. During his time at the club, he made a significant impact on and off the pitch, earning the respect and admiration of both fans and teammates.
He played an instrumental role in last season’s promotion, scoring the goal that led to the play-off final being decided on penalties.
Despite being offered the chance to extend his contract, which was due to expire this summer, Rodrigues has chosen to seek new opportunities.
A statement from the club’s board of directors reads: "We would like to express our gratitude to Ruben for his outstanding contribution to the club since joining us in 2020.
"By choosing to join us, he made a courageous decision to leave his family and friends behind and pursue his career in a foreign country. He can certainly be proud of his achievements.
“Although we made a very attractive offer to keep him at the club, we respect his decision and wish him all the best for the future. He will be missed.”
Rodrigues’ departure marks the end of a successful chapter at Meadow Lane. His contributions on and off the pitch will be fondly remembered by fans and teammates alike. As he embarks on his next adventure, we wish him all the best and look forward to seeing what he achieves in the future.
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PON_News
David McGoldrick has expressed his delight at returning to Notts County, the club he supports and where he started his career. The striker, who joined the Magpies on a two-year deal after leaving Derby County, said he felt at home at Meadow Lane and was impressed by the changes at the club.
He had expressed his excitement at the prospect of playing for Notts County again. The striker, who joined the Magpies after leaving Derby County, said he was impressed by the changes at the club and was looking forward to contributing to its success.
McGoldrick, who scored 25 goals for Derby County last season, said he was taken around the stadium and saw the new changing rooms and the new PA system being installed. He said he noticed the difference from when he was here as a teenager and said it was more up-to-date.
He said: "Yeah, much different. I've been getting taken around the stadium, these changing rooms here, it's a completely different night and day to when I was here. It's more up to date, shall I say."
He added: "It's nice to be back and see familiar things and familiar surroundings of when I was here years ago."
McGoldrick also spoke about his memories of watching Notts County as a kid and visiting as a fan. He said he always felt a connection to the club and drove past the stadium often. He said: "Do you get that feeling of being at home when you walk around here, even though there's a lick of paint here and there, and you saw a new PA system being installed just as you were walking around? Yeah, it does. And even like, obviously I'm a Nottingham boy, so when I drive past the stadium, it brings back all the memories I have when I was a kid here. And I've been back here watching games many times. So yeah, I always get that feeling when I come here. It is home to me. It is my club, so it's proud, yeah."
McGoldrick also reflected on his debut for Notts County against Sheffield Wednesday when he was 15 years old. He said he remembered the players and the staff who helped him at that time, such as Paul Heffernan, Kevin Pilkington, Gary Brazil and John Gawne. He said he owed a lot to them for bringing him through.
He said: "Yeah, so I was still in school in year 11. I remember the way we were in the team then I think it was like the Paul Heffernans and then I got milled an all-in goal but yeah it was a fantastic moment I think the first game here was against Sheffield Wednesday. Bournemouth away we played at Travolta, remember the boys got me in the back playing poker when I was 15, 16 but yeah great memories and good times."
McGoldrick also revealed that he had always wanted to come back to Notts County and did not want to miss the opportunity. He said he had other options in higher leagues and higher wages, but he chose to join Notts County for footballing reasons and personal happiness.
He said: "I can't go into a specific time, but it's always been in the back of my mind. I've always been watching the scores from when I left the club many years ago, and obviously I've been back here many times, and I've always said I want to come back. And that might not have happened. This was a couple of years ago, the club in a different direction. It might not have happened, but with my contract expiring and the offer there for me to come back, I didn't want to look back in 10 years' time and think, I wasted this opportunity, I wish I did this."
He also thanked his family for their support and said he was proud to show them his surroundings at Meadow Lane. He said he wanted them to be part of his journey at Notts County and see him perform again for his boyhood club.
He said: "Yeah I told them that my aim is to finish at Notts County, so I want them to be part of it and to show them my surroundings, and they'll be at many games this season, they've already told me that. So yeah, family is massive to me, I'm a Nottingham boy and to show them that this is a club that I'm going to be playing for is a proud moment of a dad."
David McGoldrick’s return to Notts County is a proud moment for the striker. He has always had a connection to the club and is excited to be back where it all began. With his family’s support, McGoldrick is determined to make the most of this opportunity and help Notts County achieve success.
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PON_News
Notts County is thrilled to announce that academy graduate David McGoldrick has returned to Meadow Lane and signed a two-year contract. 
The 35-year-old had a phenomenal 2022-23 season with Derby County, scoring 25 goals and earning the title of Fans’ and Players’ Player of the Season. 
Despite narrowly missing out on the Sky Bet League One play-offs, McGoldrick was offered the chance to stay at Pride Park. However, he has chosen to fulfil his long-held ambition of returning to his boyhood club.
The board of directors and head coach Luke Williams are delighted to welcome back a player who was widely regarded as one of the top performers in the third tier. 
A statement from the club reads: “We’re overjoyed to welcome someone of David’s immense quality and experience. 
He joins us on the back of his best-ever goalscoring season, but his talents extend far beyond his ability in front of goal. 
David is an incredibly intelligent and intricate footballer who also boasts tremendous physicality. We believe he can be hugely effective in a number of attacking roles.”
Nottingham-born McGoldrick progressed through Notts County's academy and made his senior debut at just 16 years old in a 2-1 home defeat to Swindon Town in 2004. He made another three appearances that season before being signed by then-Premier League side Southampton for an undisclosed fee. 
After returning to Notts County on loan in 2005-06, he established himself at St Mary’s and finished the 2008-09 season as the Saints’ top scorer with 14 goals.
McGoldrick’s career then took him to Nottingham Forest, Coventry, Ipswich Town and Sheffield United. His performances for the Blades earned him an extension to his initial one-year deal, and he repaid them with 15 goals to help fire them into the Premier League. 
He went on to make 63 Premier League appearances for United, scoring 10 top-flight goals including a delightful finish against Arsenal which won him the club’s 2020-21 Goal of the Season award.
After departing Sheffield United, McGoldrick signed a one-year contract with Derby County last summer. It proved to be an outstanding piece of business for Notts County's near neighbours as he scored an incredible three hat-tricks on his way to scoring 22 goals in League One. 
McGoldrick also boasts international experience having won 14 caps for Republic of Ireland and being voted the FAI’s Senior International Player of the Year in 2020.
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PON_News
Jodi Jones, the Notts County winger, is set to play against England in a European Championships qualifier later this month as he has been selected for the latest Malta squad.
After being instrumental in helping the Magpies achieve promotion from the National League, Jones made a permanent move to the team this summer. He has since acquired a Maltese passport through his father and went on to make his debut for the national team in September.
He has since earned six caps for Malta, featuring against reigning champions Italy and North Macedonia in the Nations League.
Now he has a chance to test himself against some of the best players in the world when Malta host the Three Lions on Friday 16 June.
England are top of Group C with two wins out of two, while Malta are bottom with no points from two games.
Furthermore, aside from the forthcoming match, Jones will actively participate in two additional games within the international break, with Malta embarking on trips to both Luxembourg on Friday, June 9 and Ukraine on Monday, June 19.
During this season, the 25-year-old player has managed to score three important goals for Notts, including a decisive goal in extra time against Boreham Wood in the play-off semi-final and a penalty in the shoot-out against Chesterfield at Wembley, throughout 18 games.
Jones will hope to impress Notts boss Luke Williams with his performances for Malta and cement his place in the League Two side next season.
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PON_News
Notts County announce pre-season fixtures against Stoke City and Nottingham Forest.
Notts County have officially unveiled their complete pre-season fixture list for the 2023-24 season, which features thrilling home matches against Championship giants Stoke City and Premier League heavyweights Nottingham Forest.
The Magpies, who will be playing in League Two next season after winning promotion from the National League, will kick off their preparations with a trip to Nuneaton Borough on Tuesday 4 July.
On Saturday, July 8th and July 15th, Notts County will be hosting tough opponents, Stoke City and Nottingham Forest at Meadow Lane, providing an excellent opportunity for their supporters to witness their team in action.
In addition to kicking off their League Two campaign in August, Notts County are set to compete in four away fixtures against AFC Telford, Boston United, Alfreton Town, and Shrewsbury Town.
Ticket details for all pre-season fixtures will be announced in due course by the club.
The Magpies will be hoping to build on their impressive season under manager Luke Williams, who led them to promotion via the National League playoffs.
To reinforce his team for the upcoming season, Williams has already secured two summer acquisitions in the form of Jodi Jones, formerly of Oxford United, and Will Randall, who transferred from Sutton United. Both players joined the team on a free deal and have signed contracts for a period of two years.
During the pre-season matches, Williams will aim to both challenge his fresh acquisitions and existing team members while preparing them for the upcoming obstacles.
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Chris
Notts County have returned to the English Football League after a four-year absence, thanks to a thrilling penalty shoot-out victory over Chesterfield in the National League promotion final at Wembley. The Magpies came from behind twice in a 2-2 draw, with John Bostock and Ruben Rodrigues scoring late equalisers in normal time and extra time respectively. Substitute goalkeeper Archie Mair then proved to be the hero, saving two penalties in the shoot-out to seal Notts County's promotion.
Their head coach Luke Williams, who replaced Ian Burchnall in June 2022, praised his players for their resilience and character. He said: "It was an incredible game, full of drama and emotion. I'm so proud of the boys for never giving up and fighting until the end. They showed their quality and mentality throughout the season, and they deserve this moment."
Notts County have been one of the most prolific teams in the National League past season, scoring 107 goals in the regular season and reaching the promotion final with a dramatic extra-time win over Boreham Wood. However, their defence has been a cause for concern, as they have conceded 14 goals in their last 10 games, including two in each of their last two home games.
Their head coach Luke Williams has demanded his players to be more "proactive and aggressive" without the ball and to improve their intensity and concentration. He said: "When we have a lot of the ball and want to be attacking, sometimes when we don't have the ball I just feel that sometimes our intensity drops a little bit, and it's just waiting for us to get the ball back and start playing again. I want us to be much more proactive and aggressive."
The Magpies' may look to strengthen their defence in the summer transfer window, as they prepare for life in League Two. Here are some potential signings that Notts County might want to consider:
Notts County have signed Connell Rawlinson on a two-year deal. The club is still waiting to hear from Kyle Cameron, who has also been offered a new contract. These two defenders are among the seven remaining players from last season’s squad. The Magpies hope to keep the core of their team intact for another promotion push in League Two. With Richard Brindley, Adam Chicksen, Geraldo Bajrami, Tobi Adebayo-Rowling, and Aden Baldwin. The Magpies are hoping to keep the core of their team intact as they prepare for another promotion push in League Two.
Defensive players
Tom Bradbury
Tom Bradbury is a left-sided centre-back who joined Cheltenham Town from Halifax Town in 2022. He helped Halifax reach the National League play-offs last season. He has made 13 appearances for Cheltenham, scoring one goal. He is 25 years old.
Bradbury could be a useful option for Notts County’s defence, as he can also play as a left-back or a defensive midfielder. He is quick, agile and composed under pressure. He has also shown his versatility by playing in different formations for Cheltenham last season.
Mamadou Jobe
Mamadou Jobe is a young and strong centre-back who joined Maidstone on loan from Cambridge United in 2023. He has also played for St Albans, Concord Rangers and St Neots Town. He has made 13 appearances for Maidstone. He is 20 years old.
Jobe could be a promising talent for Notts County’s defence, as he has the potential to develop further under Luke Williams’ coaching. He is powerful, athletic and confident on the ball. He has also impressed with his aerial ability and tackling skills for Woking past season.
Adam Senior:
Adam Senior is a promising and talented centre-back who has been with Bolton Wanderers since he was eight years old. He made his first-team debut in 2019. He has made 4 appearances for Bolton. He has been on loan to Ashton United, York City, Chorley, Telford United and Halifax Town. He is 21 years old.
Senior could be an exciting prospect for Notts County’s defence, as he has shown his quality and potential at League Two level with Bolton past season. He is composed, intelligent and brave on the ball. He has also demonstrated his leadership skills by captaining Bolton’s under-23 team.
Tom James:
Tom James is a skilful and adaptable defender who can play as a centre-back, a full-back or a defensive midfielder. He joined Salford City from Hibernian in 2021. He has made 62 appearances for Leyton Orient, scoring 8 goals. He is 27 years old.
James could be a quality signing for Notts County’s defence, as he can play in different systems and roles. He is technically gifted, creative and composed on the ball. He has also shown his defensive awareness, positioning and work rate for Salford last season.
Jack Armer: 
Jack Armer is a defender for Carlisle United. He was born on 16 April 2001 in Preston, England and has represented Scotland at the youth international level. In August 2020, Armer joined Carlisle United after being released by Preston North End. Since joining the Cumbrians, he has scored three goals in 111 games.
Armer could potentially be signed to cover Adam Chicksen while also offering support to the centre-back positions. If Carlisle is looking to strengthen their side for life in League One, a reasonable offer may tempt him away from the club.
Ajibola Alese:
Ajibola Alese is a robust and reliable defender who joined Sunderland last season, where he had previously been at Cambridge United on loan from West Ham United in 2021. He has also played for Accrington Stanley. He has made 20 appearances for Sunderland, scoring one goal. He is 22 years old.
Alese could be a smart loan signing for Notts County’s defence, as he has the potential to improve further under Luke Williams’ coaching. He is physical, athletic and confident on the ball. He has also impressed with his consistency, concentration and communication skills for Cambridge past season.
Zac Williams:
Zac Williams is a young and agile defender who came through the Crewe Alexandra youth ranks in 2021. He has also played for Wales Under 18s and 19s. His season was ended by injury against Ipswich Town. He made 37 appearances for Crewe. He is 19 years old.
Williams could be a promising talent for Notts County’s defence, as he has the potential to develop further under Luke Williams’ coaching. He is quick, skilful and composed under pressure. He has also shown his versatility by playing as a centre-back, a right-back and a left-back for Crewe past season.
Di’Shon Bernard:
Di’Shon Bernard is a skilful and athletic defender who joined Portsmouth on loan in 2023. He previously played for Hull City on loan from Manchester United in 2021. He has also played for Salford City. He is currently out of contract at Manchester United and could be a bargain signing for any League Two club. He has made ten appearances for Portsmouth last past season. He is 22 years old.
Bernard could be an exciting prospect for Notts County’s defence, as he has shown his quality and potential at League One level with Portsmouth. He is composed, intelligent and confident on the ball. He has also shown his defensive awareness, positioning and work rate for Portsmouth and Hull City.
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PON_News
Notts County goalkeeper Tiernan Brooks has been called up to the Republic of Ireland Under 21 squad for their upcoming friendlies in Austria.
The 20-year-old, who has been a key part of the Magpies’ promotion-winning campaign, will join Jim Crawford’s side for a training camp this weekend.
Despite being born in Sheffield, Brooks is eligible to play for Ireland due to his family connections in Sligo. He showcased his skills for the Irish U21s in March, contributing to their 2-1 victory over Iceland.
He will now hope to add to his cap tally in the following matches:
• Tuesday 13 June: Gabon U23s • Friday 16 June: Ukraine U21s • Monday 19 June: Kuwait U21s
Brooks extended his contract with Notts County for three years in June. He impressed while playing on loan for Coalville Town, Hednesford Town, and Boston United.
He's worked with England's youth teams before. He went to a training camp for goalkeepers at St. George's Park in December 2021. He was also on the standby list for the England U19s' European Championship in 2022.
Nonetheless, his decision to play for the Irish national team presents an opportunity for him to showcase his talent to Crawford, in preparation for the UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifiers slated for September 2023.
Brooks is one of three goalkeepers in the Ireland U21 squad, along with Killian Cahill (Brighton & Hove Albion) and Josh Keeley (Tottenham Hotspur).
He is part of a group of fifteen English club players including Tayo Adaramola (Crystal Palace), James Furlong (Brighton & Hove Albion), Sean Grehan (Crystal Palace), Connor O'Riordan (Crewe Alexandra), Sean Roughan (Lincoln City), Darragh Burns (MK Dons), Jack Henry-Francis (Arsenal), Joe Hodge (Wolves), Killian Phillips (Crystal Palace), Harry Vaughan (Hull City), Sinclair Armstrong (QPR), Dylan Duffy (Lincoln City), Andrew Moran (Brighton & Hove Albion), Armstrong Oko-Flex (West Ham United), and Ollie O'Neill (currently on loan from Fulham to Derry City).
After the friendlies, Brooks aims to maintain his excellent performance for Luke Williams' team, as they have successfully recovered their Football League status following their triumph at the National League playoffs. Brooks will be back at Notts County to achieve this goal.
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PON_News
Fan of Big Tone, a devoted Notts County fan, has been supporting the club for many years. When asked how being a fan of Tony Hateley influenced his support for Notts County, he replied with great fondness. 
He recalls the excitement and buzz in the city when it was announced that Hateley had re-signed with Notts County for the 70/71 season. Fan of Big Tone was one of the 21,000 fans who packed into Meadow Lane to see the return of the messiah, Tony Hateley. He describes it as an unforgettable experience that still brings a lump to his throat.
That season, Tony Hateley scored 22 goals in 29 matches, leading Notts County to win the 4th division title. It was Fan of Big Tone’s favourite season ever. As an 18-year-old with no ties, he had the freedom to travel far and wide to watch Notts play. He travelled by train with a group of friends and also in the back of a friend’s battered old van. Those were happy days indeed.
Although Fan of Big Tone had been an ardent fan of Notts since he was around 9 years old, that game and that season cemented his love for the club. Tony Hateley is and always will be his all-time favourite Notts player.
In a recent interview, Chris Buckley asked Fan of Big Tone about his expectations for Notts County before the start of the past National League season. Fan of Big Tone responded with cautious optimism. "To be honest, I was hopeful that this would be our year.
"The owners gave me confidence that we could make it a special season along with the new management team and some promising sounding signings. 
"But as always, being a Notts fan for over 60 years, I’ve had too many false dawns, so I wasn’t counting my chickens."
Fan of Big Tone’s cautious optimism is understandable given his long history of supporting the club and the many false dawns he has experienced. However, when asked about the play-off final, he said: "It was an unbelievable end to an incredible match. 
"I’m not ashamed to say I cried even though I wasn’t there but watching on the television.
"The tension was unbearable and not really good for my 70-year-old heart, but I survived and enjoyed celebrating afterwards with more than a few pints of real ale, which in the morning I did regret having a few too many." He added.

"In a word ecstatic, I was particularly pleased that we have regained the “Oldest Professional Football League Club in the World” accolade. 
"Notts are too big a club to be languishing in the 5th tier of English football, but they don’t have an automatic right to be in the league, and they had to have the right ownership, management and players in order to achieve that. 
"This season it all came together to give the fans the thing they most wanted, a return to league status."
Matt Palmer and Macaulay Langstaff have been instrumental in Notts County’s push for promotion to League Two this season. Their performances have not gone unnoticed by the fans, who have rewarded them with prestigious awards. 
Palmer was voted as the Pride of Nottingham Player of the Season, while Langstaff received the club’s Player of the Season accolade.
"Matty is an incredible player and must be one of our best signings. Everything seems to go through him, and it’s very rare he has an off match. 
"He reminds me of a player from my era who was known as “The King” and his name was Don Masson. Matty in my opinion is the new king." he replied,
When asked about Macaulay Langstaff, Fan of Big Tone said: "Well his record speaks for itself, and it’s an award he very much deserved, although the player of the season could have been won by a few players this season I believe that Macaulay richly deserved the honour. 
"Regardless of whether he stays with us or not, his record-breaking season in front of goal will go down in history and will be talked about for years to come. I don’t think the record will be beaten for a long, long time if ever, in my many years of watching Notts I’ve never seen anything quite like it."
Notts County ended their four-year exile from the Football League by beating Chesterfield on penalties in the play-off final. The Magpies' smart recruitment and consistent performances under manager Luke Williams paid off as they secured promotion to League Two.
"As long as we have the Reedtz brothers as owners, I think we will be okay. I see no reason why we can’t progress and eventually reach the championship. 
"It may take several years, but I really believe it’s achievable. However, let’s take it one step at a time and secure our place in League 2. If we reach the playoffs, that will be a bonus."
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PON_News
Notts County's new signing Will Randall has expressed his excitement at the prospect of working with head coach Luke Williams. The winger, who recently joined the Magpies from Sutton United, cited Williams as a major factor in his decision to make the move to Meadow Lane.
Randall has previous experience working with Williams during their time together at Swindon Town. "I know him from my younger days at Swindon Town, where he was assistant manager when I was breaking through to the first team," said Randall. "I appreciated him then and, being more experienced, I think I’ll appreciate him even more now."
The 26-year-old praised Williams' knowledge of the game and communication style. "As I’ve often said to friends, his knowledge of the game is incredible and I really like his communication style. I think he suits me very well and I can’t wait to take his philosophy on board and be part of his team."
Randall also spoke highly of Williams' assistant, Ryan Harley. "His assistant, Ryan Harley, also played for Swindon while I was there and I enjoyed a chat on the phone with him yesterday," said Randall. "It was lovely to catch up with him after many years and it’s great to have another welcoming and familiar face. I only have good words to say about both him and Luke."
While it remains to be seen what systems head coach Luke Williams intends to deploy next season, new signing Will Randall is ready to adapt. The winger, who has mainly plied his trade as an out-and-out winger, is unfazed by the prospect of playing as a wing-back.
“Having watched a lot of footage from last season, I can see similarities between the system Luke used and the one he helped implement at Swindon,” said Randall. “I played wing-back then and, although I was a winger at Sutton, in recent years I’ve been doing as much defensive work as I have attacking.”
Randall believes that playing as a wing-back suits his style of play. “That part of my game is instinctive now, I don’t even think about it. If I’m needed at wing back, I think it’s a role that suits me perfectly - especially in a side that likes to dominate the ball and have their wide players in advanced positions.”
The 26-year-old is also excited about the prospect of playing in a possession-based system. “I love the style of play – the possession, the ruthless edge in the final third, the high line to stifle the opposition,” said Randall. “Having a lot of the ball and plenty of opportunities to showcase yourself is very exciting and I can’t wait to experience it.”
Randall was Sutton’s joint-top goalscorer last season and is keen to continue his goalscoring form at Meadow Lane. “I’m very direct – I love getting at players in one-v-one situations and I also want to get my stats as high as possible in terms of assists and goals, closer to where they should be,” he said.
The winger is looking forward to starting a new chapter with Notts County. “It’s nice to not only have a change of club but also a change in my life,” said Randall. “I want to put my whole life into progressing with this club, so I’ll be moving to Nottingham this summer. I think that will be the best thing for me and my career.”
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Simon Clark
There are some interesting statistics when looking at the previous teams who have won the National League playoffs since they were introduced for the 2002-03 season.
Those 21 finals have seen 8 of them go to extra time (and beyond) while only one of them has been won by more than a 2 goal margin.
Exeter, Grimsby, Forest Green and Tranmere all won after losing the previous year’s final while Luton followed consecutive losing finals by winning the league!
Almost all losing finalists have eventually made it into the league although Gateshead, Fylde and Torquay also saw relegation to NLN or NLS.
The first winners – DONCASTER ROVERS with 4 players with Notts connections – beat Dagenham on golden goal or, as it was called for this game, ‘promotion goal’ (the only time promotion has been settled that way in the UK).
They immediately won the Third Division as it was called then and have had 3 spells in the Championship, albeit one season spells, and they are now in League 2.
SHREWSBURY TOWN beat Aldershot on penalties in 2003-04 and finished 21st in their first season back but were 11 points clear of relegation. After 3 playoff campaigns in 7 years, they eventually got promoted in second place and reached the L1 playoffs before falling back into tier 4, bouncing back the following season.
Currently, in League 1.
CARLISLE UNITED beat Stevenage 1-0 and followed that up by winning the League Two title at the first attempt. After an 8-year stay where they had a playoff campaign, they fell back into League Two and have just won the playoff final to get back into League One.
HEREFORD UNITED twice came from behind to beat Halifax 3-2 after extra time in the only game to be played at Leicester City’s ground. It was also the only game where neither club currently exists in the same form. They finished 16th in their first season in L2, gaining automatic promotion the following season.
They rarely left the relegation zone, falling back into L2 immediately and fell back into the National League after 3 seasons and were expelled then wound up in 2014.
MORECAMBE beat Exeter in the 2006-07 final – the first to be played at Wembley - to become the first side to earn a place in the Football League for the first time and managed 11th placed finishes in their first 2 seasons, following that up with a playoff spot. In the 2019-20 Covid shortened season, they were 22nd after 37 games and stayed up then bounced back to win the playoffs the following season and get to League 1. They managed 2 seasons at that level and will face Notts next season in League Two.
2007-08 was probably the year when things stepped up and for 10 years almost all finalists were typical Football league sides who had fallen on hard times as EXETER CITY beat Cambridge United.

They immediately went up again as runners-up and spent 3 years in League One before dropping back into L2 where they spent 10 more seasons before gaining another runner-up spot.
Currently, in League One.
Cambridge were broken-hearted again next season as they became the first side to lose consecutive finals, losing to TORQUAY UNITED.
The Gulls finished 17th in their first season back and reached the playoffs twice before returning to National league football in 2014 and a further relegation back to NLS in 2019.
Another NL playoff campaign beating Notts in the semi-final gave them hope before relegation again last season.
Currently, in the National League South.
OXFORD UNITED beat York City in 2009-10 and finished their first season back in 12th place. They went up to League One in 2016 and are another side to have reached the playoffs at that level.
Currently, in League One.
AFC WIMBLEDON squeezed past Luton Town on penalties in 2010-11 in only their 9th season of existence, including 3 league titles and the lowest final position of 8th. It’s been hard work for them since then, following a final place of 16th in their first season with 20th, 20th and 15th before getting into League One via the playoffs in 2016.
Since then, they haven’t finished higher than 15th and were relegated last season.
Currently, in League Two.
YORK CITY were the next team to inflict final defeat on Luton (whatever happened to them?!), returning to the league after an 8-year absence. They finished 17th in their first season back in the league, securing survival late in the season and managing a L2 playoff spot before suffering consecutive relegations after just 4 years in League Two.
Currently, in the National League.
The 2012-13 final was an all Welsh affair, with NEWPORT COUNTY getting the upper hand against Wrexham. They finished in a comfortable 14th place in their first season back and followed that with 2 narrow escapes, including a famous ‘Great Escape’ as they were 11 points adrift with 12 games left, securing survival with a last day win against Notts.
Famous for their cup runs, they also had 2 unsuccessful playoff campaigns, losing in both finals.
Currently, in League Two.
CAMBRIDGE UNITED beat Gateshead in the next final, a Wembley double with an FA Trophy win as well, and finished 19th in their first season back. Shaun Derry then guided them to 9th and after 7 seasons in League Two (mainly in the bottom half) they finished runners-up in 2021 to gain promotion.
Currently, in League One.
2014-15 saw BRISTOL ROVERS beat Grimsby on penalties in front of the largest final attendance of 47,029 to gain an immediate return to EFL after just one season. They followed this up with another promotion, finishing 3rd in L2 in their first season back, returning to L2 after finishing bottom of the league 5 years later. Again, they made an immediate return with a third place finish in 2021-22.
Currently, in League One.

GRIMSBY TOWN bounced back from that disappointment a year later, beating Forest Green Rovers to return to the EFL after a six-year absence. Three managers, including Russell Slade, took them to 14th place in L2 in their first season back.
After 5 seasons, 5 managers and 4 caretakers, they were back in the National League in 2021, bouncing back at the first time of asking after a dramatic playoff campaign saw them win at Meadow Lane and Wrexham.
They finished in 11th place last season as the only team to have won the National League playoffs twice.
Currently, in League Two.

FOREST GREEN ROVERS followed suit and recovered from disappointment a year earlier to beat Tranmere Rovers in the final. This made Nailsworth the smallest town ever to host a Football League club and ended a 19 season long run in the National League without promotion, the longest consecutive period since promotion to the EFL began.
They finished 21st and one point above relegation in their first season (a season where Notts were in the playoffs) and managed two playoff campaigns in three seasons before winning the league in 2022.
They only lasted one season in League One, being relegated last season.
Currently, in League Two.
TRANMERE ROVERS completed a hat trick of losing finalists coming back to win promotion as they beat Boreham Wood in the 2017-18 final after being in 18th position after the first 12 games.
They gained back-to-back promotions as a sixth-place finish got them into the playoffs and some would say unluckily relegated from L1 in a Covid shortened as positions were decided on a point per game basis when they were on a run of three consecutive wins when the season was called to a halt.
Currently, in League Two.
SALFORD CITY gained the largest final win with a 3-0 victory over AFC Fylde as the two smallest clubs to contest a final albeit with significant investment especially for Salford. They finished in eleventh place during Covid shortened season and made it into playoffs last season.
Currently, in League Two.
HARROGATE TOWN broke Notts hearts during Covid enforced empty Wembley Stadium as third winner moved into EFL for the first time. They have finished seventeenth, nineteenth, and nineteenth during three seasons.
Currently, in League Two.
HARTLEPOOL UNITED beat Torquay on penalties ending a four-year spell in non league but only managed to finish seventeenth, twenty-third returning to National league next season, making the quickest return for any previous winners.
Currently, in the National league.
As mentioned, GRIMSBY TOWN won again twenty-twenty one twenty-two beating Solihull finishing eleventh in league two last season.
Of nineteen previous play-off winners nine will face Notts next season in league two action six plying trade league one two hoping to repeat success in national league one national league south one disappeared.
After fantastic start play off winners returns two sides winning division first three seasons seems hard work only two sides last fourteen years managing top ten finish cautionary note perhaps overall average final position twelfth first season back.
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Macaulay Langstaff has had a season to remember. The forward helped lead the Magpies back to the Football League with a record-breaking 42 goals, none of which came from the penalty spot. This remarkable achievement has earned him the Our Game Player of the Year award, which he described as ‘the icing on the cake’ of an already memorable season.
Langstaff received his latest accolade at the Non-League Paper’s National Game Awards, in association with Isuzu. This came just 10 days after County’s dramatic penalty shoot-out victory over Chesterfield in the National League play-off final.
"I always say that personal accolades are the icing on the cake of team success," said Langstaff. "We have gained promotion and I have gained some personal accolades along the way, so it has been a great season."
The Magpies had a tough battle for the title, going head-to-head with Wrexham in a race that saw both teams finish with over 100 points. Though they ultimately finished second, Langstaff was thrilled to secure promotion through the play-offs.
"It has been a bit of a rollercoaster and to finish it off with promotion is obviously unbelievable," he said. "To win it at Wembley in a penalty shoot-out, I don’t think there is a better way to win it. It is going to be a season I look back on for years to come."
Langstaff wasn’t the only County winner at the National Game Awards. Manager Luke Williams was named Sports Ground Development Manager of the Year. Accepting the award on Williams’ behalf, his former teacher Mick Payne said: "When you see a manager go to the very top, people don’t always see the foundations and the groundwork that he has had to go through to get to where he has got."
Payne added: "I have known Luke since he was ten, and I feel so privileged to be connected. As a player, he unfortunately had to finish very early due to injuries, and I think he was always destined in a way to be a coach and be a manager. He has worked tirelessly to get to where he is, and I believe there are going to be big things for him down the line."
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Notts County goalkeeper Sam Slocombe has signed a new two-year contract with the club, citing the "overall package" on offer at Meadow Lane as the perfect fit for him at this stage of his career.
The 34-year-old, who first joined the Magpies ahead of the 2019-20 season, is ready for the latest chapter in his career and believes that strong competition in all areas of the squad is key to success.
"It may be possible to operate in League Two with one senior, experienced goalkeeper, but I don’t think it’s the right approach for a club that has ambitions of being successful," said Slocombe. "Competition brings the best out of everyone and if we can get that in every position it’s a really positive thing."
Slocombe has won three promotions from League Two and is confident in his ability to compete at a high level. However, he is also mindful of what lies ahead and considered multiple options before deciding to stay with Notts County.
"This is a big stage in my life," he said. "What’s best for my family has to form a huge part of any decisions about my future - and the whole package this club provides is brilliant."
Slocombe praised the owners and staff at Meadow Lane for creating a great feeling behind the scenes and is excited to be involved with the club. He will also continue to pursue coaching qualifications and learn from backroom staff such as goalkeeper coach Tom Weal and head coach Luke Williams.
"It would be stupid of me not to take on board the techniques of people like Tom and Luke," he said. "Working with Tom is very different to my experiences elsewhere, but it’s helped me massively. We’re very fortunate to have someone of his quality and work ethic."
Slocombe takes pride in passing on his knowledge and experience to younger members of the squad and has already had an influence on young keepers such as Joe McDonnell and Anthony Patterson.
"I’m really honoured to have left the tiniest stamp on these keepers," he said. "It’s going to be another big couple of years for Tiernan Brooks. If I can have an influence on him reaching his potential, I would be just as proud of that as I am of my performances and achievements over the last four years."
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Connell Rawlinson has expressed his delight at signing a new two-year deal with Notts County and says he is ready to challenge for the League Two title next season.
The 31-year-old defender, who joined the Magpies in 2019, was a key part of the side that won promotion from the National League via the play-offs last month.
Rawlinson said he never had any doubts about staying at Meadow Lane and that he feels a strong connection with the club and its fans.
"I'm over the moon," he told Notts County. "It was a no-brainer for me – I was never looking to go anywhere else.
"I’m lucky to have played for such a great club over the last four years, and I’m so grateful and happy to have experienced its rise back into the English Football League.
"I feel a real sense of belonging to this club and that’s one of the reasons I wanted to stay.
"I’ve got a loyalty and dedication to Notts - and I like that. My heart will always be here."
Rawlinson admitted that winning promotion at Wembley was the highlight of his career and that he was overcome with emotion after Cedwyn Scott's decisive penalty.
"It felt like the weight of the world came off our shoulders when that ball crossed the line," he said. "The pressure was immense, both from the fans who travelled in amazing numbers and from loved ones in the stadium who were desperate for us to win.
"It was a dream come true. I could almost have retired there and then, that’s how big a moment it was. I don’t think anything will ever top it."
The former Port Vale man also praised manager Luke Williams for being the "final piece of the puzzle" in Notts' quest for promotion and said he believes the club is well-equipped to compete in League Two.
"In my opinion, the club is all set to go again next season," he said. "We’ve got a beautiful stadium, massive fanbase, great training facilities – it’s set up to be a League One club, if not Championship.
"I’ll be coming back in for pre-season with the mindset of challenging for the league title. When you look at what Stockport so nearly achieved in League Two this year, I think we have to be confident."
Rawlinson also revealed his personal ambition of reaching 200 appearances for Notts, having already made 156 since his arrival.
"In the modern game, I think if you can reach 200 appearances for a club it’s a really good achievement," he said.
"I’m not going to be around forever, and I like the idea of being able to stamp my family name into the history of such a big club. It’s something I’m going to really push for."
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Notts County has confirmed their offer of a two-year contract has been accepted by defender Connell Rawlinson.
At 31 years old, he is one of the Magpies' longest-standing players, having joined them in 2019 when they embarked on their first season in the National League.
Since his arrival, his passionate approach has been evident and the board of directors, along with Luke Williams, did not hesitate to offer him the opportunity to be part of the next chapter of our club.
In a statement released on the official Notts County site: A statement reads: "We have immense respect for Connell’s qualities, both as a player and as an individual, and we are thrilled that he will be staying with us."
"We've seen him evolve over the years and adapt brilliantly to new roles and responsibilities.
"He was a key player for us in what proved to be one of the best seasons in our recent history and has experience of League Two from his time at Port Vale, so we have every confidence he can continue to make a very positive contribution with his performances.
"Away from the field, we believe Connell’s excellent relationship with our supporters and deeply engrained understanding of the club and its culture are extremely valuable.
"Everyone could see how much our victory at Wembley meant to him and we really appreciate his passion, loyalty and commitment."
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Adam Swaby, a devoted Notts County fan, and his wife Kayleigh recently welcomed a new addition to their family - a baby boy named Macaulay. The name was chosen in honour of Notts County striker Macaulay Langstaff. “It all started as a bit of a joke when he scored the winner at Maidenhead,” Adam explains.
The joke turned into something more serious as the months went on. “The joke kept going on and on. My wife really wanted Xander as his name, but over the months Macaulay grew on us both, and we were pretty set with that name when he was born on Tuesday,” Adam says.
For Adam and his family, the name Macaulay holds special meaning. “The links to one of the best strikers in recent memory for Notts will always live in memory. This season was also a big one for my other son Oscar. He truly fell in love with the club and the memories this season will be forever with him,” Adam shares.
Adam’s family has faced challenges in recent months. Earlier this year, Kayleigh was diagnosed with Leukemia which hit them all hard, especially her during pregnancy. In addition to their newborn son Macaulay and 10-year-old son Oscar, Adam and Kayleigh have two stepdaughters - Ellie May who is 17 and Megan who is 15.
In an interview with the Pride of Nottingham, Adam Swaby shared his thoughts on welcoming a new addition to his family. When asked about how they feel about having a new addition to their family, Adam said: "When we found out we were expecting, it came as a shock, especially having such a big age gap between Oscar and Macaulay.
“My wife was thrilled, but it took me a while to get my head around it!”
Adam also shares his hopes and dreams for baby Macaulay, saying "He hasn’t had the best start, but hopefully he’ll be home soon.
“As long as he’s happy and healthy, and a Notts fan, I’ll be happy!”
Becoming parents again has been an experience for both Adam and Kayleigh. Adam reflects on the experience, saying: "It’s been really tough, to be honest.
“From my wife’s Leukemia to an emergency caesarean section to deliver him, it’s been a stressful start for both mother and baby. But the joy it’s brought to everyone has been brilliant.”
A new addition to the family has been welcomed by Adam and Kayleigh Swaby, a baby boy named Macaulay. The joy that baby Macaulay has brought to the family has been brilliant. 
Adam hopes that Macaulay will grow up to be happy, healthy and a Notts County fan like his father and brother Oscar. The future looks bright for the Swaby family as they continue to make cherished memories together.
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Pride of Nottingham

Pride of Nottingham is an independent fansite devoted to Notts County, the world’s oldest professional football club. Created in 2013, it has served as a source of Magpie news, features, match previews, reports, analysis and interviews for more than three years.

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