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william1984

League One Preview

By william1984, in News,

PoN's Preview looks ahead to League One for the 24th and 27th of January, three games have been postponed Doncaster v Bristol City, Scunthorpe v Chesterfield and Swindon v Bradford. Seven games will still take place such as MK Dons v Barnsley and Peterborough United return to Meadow Lane, as the Post take on Notts.

If the magpies win, they could move within touching distance of the play-offs. Peterborough will be hoping to push themselves up with a win, it's a must win game for both.
 
* Important Game – ** Key Game
Saturday 24th January 2015
*Colchester v Leyton Orient – Kick Off 3:00pm – Score Prediction (1-2)
Fleetwood v Crawley – Kick Off 3:00pm – Score Prediction (2-0)
Gillingham v Oldham – Kick Off 3:00pm – Score Prediction (2-1)
*MK Dons v Barnsley – Kick Off 3:00pm – Score Prediction (3-0)
**Notts County v Peterborough – Kick Off 3:00pm – Score Prediction (1-1)
Port Vale v Crewe – Kick Off 3:00pm – Score Prediction (2-0)
*Yeovil v Coventry – Kick Off 3:00pm – Score Prediction (0-1)
 
Tuesday 27th January 2015
*Chesterfield v Crawley – Kick Off 7:45pm – Score Prediction (2-1)
Scunthorpe v MK Dons – Kick Off 7:45pm – Score Prediction (1-3)
 
My Stand-out Games
Notts County vs Peterborough
Colchester vs Leyton Orient
Yeovil vs Coventry
 
Notts County against Peterborough looks like the most important game this week as both Notts County and Peterborough try to close in on the play off places.
A win for Notts County could move them up to as high as 6th place in the league while Peterborough could move within 2 points off the play-offs.
Colchester against Leyton orient is also another important game but for different reasons as both sides could be in the drop zone by the end of the weekend depending on results elsewhere.
A win for Leyton Orient could move them up to 16th while Colchester could move up to 19th but if either side lose it worsens their relegation fears, the best result for both teams is probably a draw.
Yeovil against Coventry is also a key match in the relegation battle as Yeovil are bottom of the league and Coventry hover just above the drop zone. Yeovil will be desperate to pick up another 3 points this weekend as they try to move off the bottom of the league while Coventry will be hoping to win so they don’t get dragged into the relegation battle even more.
Yeovil can move out of the drop zone depending on other results while Coventry could move up to 15th or drop into the relegation zone.
 
Thoughts on Notts County v Peterborough
This week’s match for us is a tough one to predict with both teams having a dip in form and both teams struggling to get any points in the past weeks.
Our current results against Peterborough United have been pretty poor only picking up one point since 2010.
The last time we beat Peterborough United was back in 2010 beating them 3–2 at London Road in the league.
The overall head to head record shows Peterborough to be slight favourites as they have won 16, we've won 12 and 14 draws.
We haven’t beat Peterborough at meadow lane since 2001 winning 1-0.
We have picked up 1 point out of 15 from the last 5 meetings.
As I said earlier this match is a tough one to predict I’ve predicted a draw which I think would be a good result for us as I believe Peterborough are a better side than what they are currently showing.
 
 
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Chris

Meet the Fans

By Chris, in Media,

Join Pride of Nottingham and share the "Notts Community" experience by interacting with us. On match days we take to surveying and asking fans their opinions, if time permits we speak to an opposition fan and we then meet our own. If you would like to feature in our videos please do get in touch, the simplest way in getting involved is by joining our community forums.

Alternatively you can e-mail us by using the contact form found in the main navigation. We take great pride in offering our content to the fans, so we do hope you enjoy them!
For each home game we hope to bring you our "Meet the Fans" range of content. Find out what away fans think in the "Opposition View", then it's straight onto our own with "Meet the Fans" and afterwards we find out what the "Aftermath" is and how our fans feel the game went.
 
Match Day Interactions
 
Meet the Fans
 
Aftermath
 
Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel - PrideofNottinghamTV

  For more free video content please visit our video system - Here. Feel free to subscribe to our Newsletters, these are sent out regularly, we hope to keep our community updated with what is happening and Pride of Nottingham hopes you join in with us.  
To Join PoN - Link (Including Facebook & Twitter connect!!)
Interested in Other Content? - Live Centre and View New Content
 
Many thanks to all the fans who featured in videos, we greatly appreciate the time taken by the fans to speak with us.
super_ram

League One Round-Up

By super_ram, in News,

In this weeks round-up there hasn't been many surprises within the League One fixtures. Only three stand out which are Gillingham, Port Vale and Yeovil. Whilst the top end of the table hasn't changed much with only Rochdale making their way into the play-off places, as Sheffield United drop just outside and remain on the same points as Bradford.

Yeovil will be hoping they can continue their form with a win on Tuesday over Preston, however after this weekend the play-offs remain wide open.
 
League One Results
Colchester 0 Walsall 2
Doncaster 1 Barnsley 0
Fleetwood 0 Oldham 2
Gillingham 3 Coventry 1
MK Dons 1 Sheffield United 0
Notts County 2 Crewe Alexandra 1
Port Vale 2 Peterborough 1
Rochdale 4 Crawley 1
Scunthorpe 0 Bristol City 2
Swindon 3 Chesterfield 1
Yeovil 1 Bradford 0
 
Upcoming Fixtures – Tuesday 20th January 2015
Doncaster v Notts County
Oldham v Rochdale
Preston v Yeovil
 
League Update
There were home wins for Doncaster Rovers, Gillingham, MKDons, Notts, Port Vale, Rochdale and Yeovil. There were away wins for Walsall, Oldham and Bristol City.
Swindon remain top on 54 points after 26 games but Bristol City still have a game in hand. MK Dons move up to 3rd after their home win over Sheffield United, who slip to 7th, both having played 24 games. Preston drop to 4th from 25 games. Rochdale move up to 5th after their impressive home win over Crawley. Bradford currently occupy the final play-off spot, though they lost away to bottom of the league club Yeovil.
In the chasing pack behind Sheffield United come Chesterfield in 8th place with Port Vale moving up to 9th. Notts now move up to 10th with 34 points from 24 games, level with Fleetwood who have played 26 games, Oldham who have played 24 and Tuesday nights opponents Doncaster Rovers, who have also played 24 games.
Yeovil remain anchored at the bottom of the league with 23 points from 24 games, even though they beat Bradford City. Crawley stay at 23rd with 24 points from 23 games. Colchester are also on 24 points and in 22nd place. Crewe drop into the final relegation place after Notts beat them and have 26 points. Also on 26 points are Leyton Orient. Gillingham move up to 19th after their 3 -1 home win over Coventry who remain in 18th place. Barnsley and Scunthorpe, 16th and 17th also have 29 points. Peterborough drop to 15th with 31 points from 25 games and Walsall move up to 14th with 33 points from 26 games.
Still only 10 points separate 6th placed Bradford City from 21st placed Crewe.
If Notts beat Doncaster on Tuesday they will move into the final play-off place at the expense of Bradford City, provided Oldham beat Rochdale. However Notts would drop a place if they don't win and Oldham win.
 
All is still to play for!
 
 
Match Thread - League One Preview - Match Report - Aftermath  
Joe Jones
What a superb win, and what a superb way to get it. Notts County's form has been shaky of late, with three consecutive defeats making Magpie fans more than a little nervous, but the response today was a 2-1 win against Crewe Alexandra, courtesy of a stunning finish at the death from newcomer Billy Daniels.

The Alex were first to threaten when Jamie Ness won a free-kick four minutes in, with Alan Tate getting to the ball first and sending a header just wide of goal.
On nine minutes, Ness sent Nicky Ajose through on goal, but the striker’s touch was heavy and keeper Roy Carroll was able to come out and save.
Two minutes later a James Jones pass got Uche Ikpeazu in behind. He was beaten to the ball by Carroll, but the loose sphere fell to Ajose, who missed the target.
Notts then started to respond, and on 16 minutes Kwame Thomas nodded over after getting above Jon Guthrie to meet a cross from the left flank, and minutes later, Haydn Hollis headed wide from a set-piece.
It looked as though the first half would end all square, but Ikpeazu then conceded a free-kick in stoppage time and the ball was delivered into the Alex box, where Thomas was sent down by Guthrie’s swinging leg.
The referee pointed to the spot and Liam Noble planted the dead ball into the bottom corner despite goalkeeper Garratt getting the faintest of touches.
 
Less than two minutes after the restart, the Notts defence was found wanting as Ness charged forward and drove low past Carroll from 20 yards out to level proceedings.
Both sides gave it their all throughout the second half, but luckily the Magpies would go on to secure all three points in spectacular fashion.
A cross from the left wing was beautifully met on the volley by substitute Daniels, the ball soaring into the top corner from 15 yards, much to the unadulterated joy of the home faithful.
Crewe never really threatened to get back into it and despite Noble being sent off for a second yellow in injury time, the hosts held on.
Chris

The Build-Up

By Chris, in Match Previews,

Saturday 17th January 2015

Key Fixtures

Colchester v Walsall
Doncaster v Barnsley
Fleetwood v Oldham
Gillingham v Coventry
Port Vale v Peterborough
Rochdale v Crawley
Scunthorpe v Bristol City

Prediction

Crewe Alexandra are currently within good form having beaten some very respectable teams within League One. They will be heading to Meadow Lane to prove a point and to continue their progression away from the relegation zone. I see this ending in a 1-1 draw.

Match Odds

Notts County to win 23/20 – Draw 12/5 – Crewe Alexandra to win 23/10

Head to Head

Notts County – A win for Notts will most likely move them to 11th, only a single place gained. However if Port Vale and Peterborough United draw that would leave the Magpies available to make the most of their game in hand. If Notts were to draw 12th to 15th is likely, whilst the worst case scenario being a loss would drop Notts perhaps as low as 15th to 18th.

Crewe Alexandra – If the Railwaymen win it could see them move to 19th, a draw could see them remain 20th or it could allow them to move to 19th, whilst a strong possibility of a return back into the relegation fold is also likely. If they were to lose, it could see them fall all the way to 23rd provided the other teams all win.

Key Man

Notts County; Garry Thompson – With added quantity to the Notts County ranks, it frees up Thompson to play upfront as a striker. This allows us to have a player who is always in the mix to score goals, which is exactly what the Magpies require against the Railwaymen.

Crewe Alexandra; Nicky Ajose – The on loan Leeds striker has given the Alex hope of survival, his form and performance will be key. If he does well, likely the players around will become confident and hes always a concern on goal sight making him the key man.

League Table


Swindon Town and Bristol City will be hoping to both win, as Swindon could retain the top place or end up being replaced by the Robins. Preston North End don't feature within this weekends fixtures, so they could be replaced by MK Dons who could move to 3rd provided they beat Sheffield United.
If MK Dons do win, this would open the 6th place position up to Chesterfield, Rochdale or Fleetwood Town. This provides Rochdale with the perfect opportunity as on paper they have the best chance of winning this weekend.

From 18th to 11th could see large movements, as sides are quite closely grouped together on points. Notts will have to give 110% as they could be one of the sides who fall, even if they manage to pick up a draw. Doncaster v Barnsley sums up this fix of games as only two points separates the sides with only Walsall in-between.

Leyton Orient and Crew Alexandra could both end up inside the relegation zone, however Gillingham, Colchester United and Crawley Town have all got difficult ties. Whatever the outcome for Yeovil, they will remain rooted to the bottom of League One. However, a win could leave them with a good chance of escaping the relegation zone, provided they beat Bradford City which will not be easy.




Match Thread - League One Preview - Scouting Report - Stat Attack
Joe Jones
Notts County’s head-to-head history with Crewe Alexandra dates back to September 1893, when the Magpies faced the Railwaymen at the Alexandra Recreation Ground. The result was a 2-0 win for Notts.

After several further meetings in the late 1890s, the fixture would experience a hiatus of 63 years; between 1896 and 1959, the two teams didn't play each other.
 
Despite our shared history going back so far, there have only been 40 meetings between the two sides. Notts have the upper hand with 20 wins to 13 defeats, and just seven draws have taken place.
The Alex have been on the receiving end of several thumpings at the hands of the Magpies – in 1894, we beat them 9-1 and 5-1, in 1896 we won 6-0, in 1959 we recorded a 4-1 victory, 1970 brought a 5-1 victory, while last season, a 4-0 scoreline at Meadow Lane brought some light to a gloomy first half of the campaign.
 
This season, Notts registered a nice 3-0 vistory at Gresty Road back in September, Jake Cassidy netting a brace and Shaun Harrad completing the rout.
The origins of the “Alexandra” moniker in the club name aren’t fully known. Whether they took the name from a hotel, patronised by those connected with the railway works and where they held their meetings, or whether it was after Princess Alexandra of Denmark, who married Queen Victoria’s eldest son, later King Edward VII, is open to speculation.
 
Crewe is synonymous with arguably one of the greatest and most longevous managers in the English game: Dario Gradi. He is the Alex’s very own Sir Alex Ferguson, having managed the club between 1983 and 2011, with the exception of a hiatus between 2007 and 2009 where he nevertheless took the reins on a caretaker basis for a period. He currently manages the Academy. Speaking of which…
Crewe Alexandra’s academy is one of the best and most renowned in the English lower leagues. The Academy is known to stress technical excellence, which accords with the aim to have the first team play attractive, passing football.
Most of the club's achievements in youth development have come from none other than Gradi, and alumni include Geoff Thomas, David Platt, Robbie Savage, Neil Lennon, Steve Jones, Rob Jones, Danny Murphy, Seth Johnson and Dean Ashton and David Vaughan.
Impressively, Crewe’s final fixture of the 2012-13 season, a 2-0 win against Walsall, involved a starting XI made up entirely of Academy players.
 
In 2013, the club won its first-ever major silverware after beating Southend United 2-0 in the Johnstones Paint Trophy final at Wembley.
Crewe are known as the Railwaymen because of the town’s links to the British train network. Crewe station was completed in 1837 and is one of the most historic railway stations in the world.
Nowadays, as well as serving the town of Crewe that has grown near it, it still operates as a major junction on the West Coast Main Line (WCML). It also serves as a major station on the WCML and as a major rail gateway for the North West.
 
The town of Crewe has an interesting roll call of local legends, including rugby player Mark Cueto, professional BMX racer Shanaze Reade, 1990s heartthrob Adam Rickitt (ask a female friend or relative between the ages of 25 and 30), Olympic gymnast Beth Tweddle, and Jimmy MacDonald, also known as the voice of Mickey Mouse.
---
Mike Edwards is an injury concern for Notts ahead of the visit of Crewe.
A hamstring problem forced the veteran defender to come off after only 12 minutes during the 4-0 defeat at Bristol City last weekend, so he may have to sit it out this Saturday.
Liam Noble is available again after a lengthy suspension, while Kwame Thomas, Billy Daniels and winger Will Hayhurst have joined the club this week, all three players possibly coming into contention against the Railwaymen.
Another recent arrival, Alefe Santos, made his debut from the bench at Ashton Gate and the Brazilian winger, on loan from Derby County, could make his home debut.
Meanwhile, Crewe are keeping their fingers crossed over the availability of Harry Davis and Anthony Grant.
Defender Davis received dental treatment after losing a tooth against Gillingham last weekend while midfielder Grant, who also completed 90 minutes, is a doubt due to a hip problem.
George Ray returns from a three-game suspension while Brad Inman returned to training this week following a virus.
Adam Dugdale is considered over his illness and injury problems now but Ryan Colclough remains out with a pelvis injury.
Chris
Crewe Alexandra have found themselves in good form as of late and their manager Steve Davis will be hoping his team will continue on Saturday against Notts at Meadow Lane. He has issued a warning about a backlash with the Notts County form being on the decline after several extremely difficult games for the magpies.

It's time for Notts to put in a convincing display on Saturday, as fans will be hoping to see that we can get back to winning ways against The Railwaymen.
 
Firstly, could you please tell prideofnottingham.co.uk a little about yourself such as how long you've been a railwaymen fan?
My name is Nick, I have been supporting Crewe Alexandra for around 10 years now and I am 17 years old.
 
How do you feel about the progress you've made within League One and do you think you can survive relegation?
At the start of the season I was quietly confident about staying up this season, when it started it seemed that we were destined for a difficult season and although I am unsure about survival at this point, I know the Crewe squad shows a lot of spirit and the good run in form is important to see us continue.
 
What is the Crewe Academy like, are you still bringing through young players and in recent years who would say is the best youngster produced by your club?
The club are still producing youngsters, the squad is mainly consisting of youth graduates. The easy answer would be to name our club captain Matt Tootle, he has given a lot to remain at Crewe and continues to play with the type of passion required for gaining promotion from L2 and remaining in L1 but for me, I would have to say George Cooper. He is young, only 18 but already shows that he has a promising future at the club provided we can keep him.
 
If you could sign anyone from League One who would it be and why?
Anyone? Well there is a player available on a free transfer but I would hope Crewe wouldn't touch him with a barge pole. I quite like Eion Doyle who plays for Chesterfield, if he could produce his quantity of goals here and play well, I'd snap him now in an unrealistic world.
 
Which Crewe players are currently in form and who would you label as your main threats?
Nicky Ajose is currently on form, Jamie Ness has been playing very well recently and Alan Tate's been putting in steady performances at the back. We have scored 23 goals from 24 games, I would say our squad play as a team with regards to our main threats.
 
Can you tell me which formation and team you see Crewe starting with on Saturday?
The squad hasn't changed all that much recently, hopefully Anthony Grant will start. Formation wise I hope we play a steady 4-4-2 but we seem to favour packing the midfield with numbers, this is something which can work but is often the root of our problems because we play 3 at the back at times.
 
Who are Notts County's main threats on Saturday, which players are currently in form?
I have been keeping a look out on your forum, I know that Alan Smith is not favoured by the Notts County faithfuls. It seems the veteran Gary Jones is standing out, with Garry Thompson. I would be a little clueless without having had looked but last season I thought Ronan Murray looked to be in hot form for you.
 
Lastly how do you see Crewe and Notts playing, including any possible score prediction?
Considering the way we both are performing I see the game ending as a draw. I am not expecting a lot of goals, so I will say 1-1 but I would leave Meadow Lane happy avoiding defeat.
 
Pride of Nottingham would like to thank Railwaymen's fan Nick for taking the time to answer our questions, we wish Crewe Alexandra well with their bid for safety within League One and we hope he enjoys Saturday.
 
 
Match Thread - League One Preview - Scouting Report - The Match Officials - League Link-Ups  
Chris

The Match Officials

By Chris, in News,

Saturday 17th of January, Notts County will entertain visitors Crewe Alexandra at Meadow Lane. This is a good opportunity for Notts to grab themselves a much needed win, however the visitors form is very impressive as they have enjoyed winning 3 of their last 6 games (including Bristol City), drawing 2 and losing only one.

A win for the Railwaymen could see them push away from the bottom pack within League One, whilst Notts could move up to 10th with a win.
The Match Officials for Saturdays game against Crewe Alexandra will be Iain Williamson, with his two assistants Simon Mather and Wayne Porter. The fourth official will be Akil Howson.
 
Match Officials
 
Referee; Iain Williamson
From – Berkshire
His matches involving Notts County and Crewe Alexandra in the last four seasons;
League Two – Saturday 31st December 2011 – Bristol Rovers 2 Crewe Alexandra 5 – 5 Yellow Cards
League One – Saturday 31st March 2012 – Notts County 1 Oldham Athletic 0 – 5 Yellow Cards
League One – Saturday 26th January 2013 – Bournemouth 3 Crewe Alexandra 1 – 3 Yellow Cards
League One – Saturday 17th August 2013 – Walsall 1 Notts County 1 – 2 Yellow Cards
 
Run down of his last games this season;
League Two – Sunday 28th December 2014 – Cheltenham 0 Newport 1 – 6 Yellow Cards
League Two – Saturday 3rd January 2015 – Dagenham & Redbridge 1 Bury 0 – 4 Yellow Cards
In his only two appearances of 2014/2015 10 yellow cards have been shown and currently no red cards.
 
Assistant Referee; Simon Mather
From – Manchester
Last 3 officiated games;
Saturday 15th November 2014 – Walsall 0 Peterborough United 0
Saturday 6th December 2014 – Derby County 3 Brighton & Hove Albion 0
Friday 26th December 2014 – Preston North End 1 Barnsley 0
 
Assistant Referee; Wayne Porter
From – Lincolnshire
Last 3 officiated games;
Saturday 12th April 2014 – MK Dons 0 Crawley Town 2
Saturday 22nd March 2014 – Brentford 3 Coventry City 2
Saturday 10th January 2015 – Peterborough United 0 Colchester United 2
 
Fourth Official; Akil Howson
From – Leicestershire
 
Do you have an opinion on the game? - Match Thread
 
Also, please do leave us a comment below if you have time.
 
 
Match Thread - League One Preview - Scouting Report - League Link-Ups  
Northants Pie

Youth Team Report

By Northants Pie, in News,

Saturdays game for the Youth Team provided them with the opportunity to start the new year in a positive manner, unfortunately the lads lost 3 - 0 to Rotherham United putting in another disappointing display after a good win just before the Christmas break against Burton Albion.

They went 2 - 0 down early on and never recovered despite starting the second half brightly, in truth poor decision making and a lack of a cutting edge proved to be their downfall.
They go again tonight away against Mansfield Town with a 7pm kick-off looking to put in an improved performance.
Mick Halsall said on the defeat to Rotherham "We will be working on decision making and options on the ball throughout the week and we will go again. We didn't produce enough. To get straight back on the pitch is great for us. We know Mansfield are decent at this level and have done well this season in the cup especially, as they knocked out Aston Villa, so it will be a difficult game against a confident side".
The updated league table can be found here, the fixture grid can be found here
 
 
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Chris

Crewe - Scouting Report

By Chris, in News,

Crewe Alexandra currently find themselves in decent form having picked up 3 points at home against Gillingham. Whilst also successfully obtaining points against Doncaster Rovers, Bristol City and Preston North End. Their form prior to their recent spell wasn't as good, however they are a reasonably decent side.

The Railwaymen are not to be under estimated and although in form it would suggest Notts would come out the likeliest of winners, they cannot be written off so easily.
 
Run down of their last six games.
Saturday 29th November – Crewe Alexandra 1 Doncaster Rovers 1
Saturday 13th December – Scunthorpe United 2 Crewe Alexandra 1
Saturday 20th December – Crewe Alexandra 1 Bristol City 0
Friday 26th December – Oldham Athletic 1 Crewe Alexandra 2
Sunday 28th December – Crewe Alexandra 1 Preston North End 1
Saturday 10th January – Crewe Alexandra 3 Gillingham 1
 
The Players – Fact Sheet
Highest Goal Scorers; Nicky Ajose 4, Marcus Haber 4, Billy Waters 3 and George Cooper 3.
Persistent Foulers; George Ray 2 Red Cards and 4 Yellow Cards, Anthony Grant 7 Yellow Cards, Oliver Turton 4 Yellow Cards and Adam Dugdale 3 Yellow Cards.
 
The Key Players.
Nicky Ajose, Marcus Haber and Uche Ikpeazu would be considered Crewe Alexandra's key front men.
The former Magpie Marcus Haber is well known for being a battler and the occasional goalscorer, whilst Nicky Ajose is the one to watch out for with Uche Ikpeazu being a player who can drift in and out of games, combining especially well with Ajose upfront.
Anthony Grant one of their experienced players, who is also a physical player who likes to make his presence known to the opposition. He creates play, whilst linking up well with the strikers.
Billy Waters is an academy player who is steady all round performer, he has a good set of skill within his locker but he plays the 'simple' passes very well.
Jamie Ness is a direct player who looks to involve himself with every passing phase, when played in the centre of the park he offers the creativity and the forward momentum with his calm influence and his natural ability to string out long distance passes.
 
Style of Play, Strengths, and Weaknesses.
Crewe Alexandra are not the underdogs to under estimate, they're also not to be fooled by their league position either. They try to play direct football especially within the right way and although they can be a tad bit physical. The Railwaymen look to always get the ball forward, keeping their movement free by picking out the right passes.
Their height and strength are a key pluses, something Crewe find to be very effective within set pieces and when dealing with weaker inexperienced defenders.
The effort they put into the games, whilst looking to explore opposition sides through their attacking play can often foresee decent build up play and this is the method they have put well into practice within recent games, resulting in several impressive results.
Main weaknesses is scrappy play, rushed passes and a general panic when put under pressure. When sides look to get into goal scoring opportunities, players make poor decisions and runs, resulting in other players finding available space.
They have a tendency of dropping behind their opposition and paying too much attention to the ball, better players can use this very effectively.
When hit with pace, there is a vulnerability which suggests space and time will always open up for opposition sides to gain and take chances. Their inability to close down their opposition is a direct result to many teams having scored against them within this season.
 
 
Match Thread - League One Preview - League Link-Ups  
Chris

League Link-Ups

By Chris, in News,

The importance of networking and making club connections, especially within the local community has never been as beneficial for lower league teams as it is under the new financial fair play rules. Teams within League One and Two have far more to gain by opening their doors to the local teams which play around them.

This of course means clubs will have to put aside rivalry for the betterment of their own development if they struggle to bring in that additional quality.
 
Notts have actually been making their own progress in this department this year, whilst the club has actively put into place methods of balancing their financial outgoings by reducing agent fee's with their deals. This allows a club like Notts County to open their doors and to become a club whereby teams can trust Notts with their upcoming players. Shaun Derry has said himself that it is a good way of reducing unnecessary costs at the football club by working with local sides, the likes of Aston Villa, Nottingham Forest, Leicester City, Birmingham City and Derby County to name a few.
Locally based players will not have the cost of apartments, hotels and other fee's which come attached to signing players who have to settle a way from their home.
Becoming trusted by managers, whilst working on that reputation offers Notts a platform which they can work off. It promotes the club in an efficient and effective way which means once trusted with youngsters, clubs may trust Notts with their out of form players.
Of course it puts Notts in a situation where by free players might become interested in seeking the exact same opportunity, so it serves more purpose to be patience about signing young players on short term loan deals, as this enables Notts to really forge themselves within the transfer market.
The difficulties of balancing expectations, along with establishing a strong squad for promotion is a difficult game, especially when budgets don't permit a lot of movement.
This is where the abilities of being a good neighbour comes into it, it allows teams just like Notts to gain that extra special quality to bulk up their existing squad. It doesn't always mean the arrival of an established head, or a player with a known name. sometimes it means taking a gamble on youngsters eager to make that step up who are below that radar.
Who had heard of Callum McGregor or Jack Grealish before they arrived at Meadow Lane last season? Their hard work put themselves on the map, it opened the door to them to their respected clubs first team.
The same principles can be applied to this seasons loan players such as Reece Brown, Louis Laing, Stephen Mclaughlin, Michael Petrasso, Jake Cassidy and Zeli Ismail.
Louis Laing has that opportunity to prove himself at Forest, whereas Stephen McLaughlin will be in contention for the first team with both players being required under the embargo the club have found themselves under.
Michael Petrasso will possibly be loaned out to a Championship side, with Jake Cassidy and Zeli Ismail potentially ending up back on loan with a team lower than that.
Yet it does show the openness of Notts to work along side locally based teams, especially now that Alefe Santos and Kwame Thomas arrive at Meadow Lane, it is for Notts to show that they can look after them, make use of their talents and perhaps further doors will be unlocked with time.
 
Aided with the ability to produce young talent of our own, the budget in future seasons might be balanced out with a mix of players offering a vast variety of skills which can be used by Shaun Derry.
It's likely until Notts have a few good seasons, whereby crowds increase largely and with the addition of any possible cup runs that things may be different but even under those circumstances the ability to be trusted with loan players is of vast importance to the club.
You have to make use of every opportunity available in order to overcome the difficulties attached and really, we can consider ourselves lucky to already have the widening net under our current manager.
We have made a lot of ground this season and the way it's going, I see no reason why in the future we can't replicate a mix of aspects the likes of Walsall (youngsters), Peterborough (non league signings) and of course Swindon (parent club, i.e Spurs) have made in order for ourselves to progress.
Really you have to make sure that the club is doing all in which it can, I honestly believe Notts are. Whether you agree or not, this leads to a discussion which I openly encourage.
 
 
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william1984

League One Preview

By william1984, in News,

In this weeks PoN's preview to the League One games played on the 16thand 17th of January, six key games have been identified – This includes the important game between MK Dons vs Sheffield United, which several teams within League One will be looking out for. Whilst Doncaster take on Barnsley at the Keepmoat Stadium.

If the Dons win, they could close the gap on Bristol City and Swindon. If the Blades win they could pull away from the sides just outside of the play off places.
 
* Important Game – **Key Game
Friday 16th January 2015
*Preston v Leyton Orient – Kick Off 7:45pm – Score Prediction (2-1)
 
Saturday 17th January 2015
Colchester v Walsall – Kick Off 3:00pm – Score Prediction (1-0)
**Doncaster v Barnsley – Kick Off 3:00pm – Score Prediction (1-1)
Fleetwood v Oldham – Kick Off 3:00pm – Score Prediction (1-0)
Gillingham v Coventry – Kick Off 3:00pm – Score Prediction (0-2)
**MK Dons v Sheffield United – Kick Off 3:00pm – Score Prediction (2-1)
*Notts County v Crewe – Kick Off 3:00pm – Score Prediction (2-0)
Port Vale v Peterborough – Kick Off 3:00pm – Score Prediction (1-2)
Rochdale v Crawley – Kick Off 3:00pm – Score Prediction (2-1)
*Scunthorpe v Bristol City – Kick Off 3:00pm – Score Prediction (0-3)
**Swindon v Chesterfield – Kick Off 3:00pm – Score Prediction (2-1)
Yeovil v Bradford – Kick Off 3:00pm – Score Prediction (1-3)
 
My Stand-out Games
MK Dons v Sheffield United
Doncaster v Barnsley
Swindon v Chesterfield
 
MK Dons against Sheffield United looks like the most important game this week as MK Dons try to push for a automatic promotion place whilst Sheffield United try to hang onto a play off spot.
A win for MK Dons could move them up to 2nd whilst Sheffield United could move up to 5th depending on the result of Yeovil v Bradford. Teams around Sheffield United will want them to mess up so that they might be able to gain points on them.
Doncaster against Barnsley is also another game that jumped out at me this week not only because it’s a local derby but also for the fact of whichever team loses could move further down towards the drop zone.
A win for Doncaster could move them up to as high as 8th which will make their fans think more about the play-offs again rather than relegation, whilst a win for Barnsley could move them up to 10th which could also ease their relegation fears.
Whichever team loses could move down to within 3 places of the drop zone which makes it a key game for more then the local rivalry.
Swindon against Chesterfield is a key match for effecting the automatic promotion places aswell as the play-offs and surrounding teams as Swindon try to hang onto top spot or 2nd whilst chesterfield try to push into the play off places.
A win for Swindon will put them top or maybe keep them in 2nd place whilst a win for chesterfield could move them up to as high as 5th and move them away from several chasing teams for a play off spot.
 
Thoughts on Notts County v Crewe
This weeks match for us should be an easier match then previous weeks whilst at the same time Crewe’s form has picked up as of late.
Our current results against Crewe Alexander have been positive although previously we have had better results away from home.
The last time we dropped points against Crewe was back in 2013 when we drew 1-1 at Meadow Lane in the league.
The overall head to head record shows us as favourites as we have won 20 whilst Crewe have won 12 and drawn 7.
Crewe haven’t beaten us since 1997 when they won us 1-0 at Meadow Lane.
We have picked up 14 points out of 15 from the last 5 meetings.
I believe this is a match we should win but it wont be an easy game as Crewe’s form has improved over the past couple of weeks, I would at least hope for a point but Notts should get all 3 points.
 
 
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Chris

On The Table

By Chris, in News,

We're now starting to see which sides are real contenders for promotion from League One, Pride of Nottingham reflects on the league table with it's 'On The Table' feature. Form for many teams is rapidly becoming important, as the table changes for the better, as those who maintain their form are rewarded with contention for promotion.

Teams which slip or fail to progress increasingly lay in limbo, as they struggle to keep up with the pack and demand of the tough division.
 
Bristol City have regained the very top position after they cruised against a struggling Notts County, the final score 4-0 in the Robins favour.
Swindon Town haven't played, they face Coventry City away from home on Monday 12th of this month. If Swindon win, they move back to 1st, however this would leave Bristol City with a game in hand. A win for Swindon Town would be the best possible outcome, as this would leave for an exciting title challenge.
 
MK Don's move from 4th to 3rd within League One, they drew 2-2 against struggling Crawley Town.
Preston North End drop a position after losing to Sheffield United away from home, the final score at Bramall Lane was 2-1.
Bradford City and Sheffield United remain in their respective places, despite Bradford losing 2-1 to Rochdale and Sheffield United winning. Bradford sit 5th and Sheffield United 6th. If the Blades win their game in hand, this would leave them 4 points clear of 7th.
Chesterfield enjoyed a respectable 3-0 win over Port Vale, this leaves them in 7th position.
Rochdale move a position higher after their 2-1 win against Bradford City, they now retain the 8th position within League One.
Fleetwood Town jump from 12th to 9th after beating last years league leaders Leyton Orient.
Port Vale drop two places from 8th to 10th, they lost to the Spireites 3-0. Peterborough United remain 11th after their shocking defeat to the hands of Colchester United.
Notts drop two places from 10th to 12th as a dominant Bristol City went on the rampage at Ashton Gate.
Oldham Athletic move from 14th to 13th, they drew 2-2 to Doncaster Rovers. The Vikings (Donny) move from 15th to 14th thanks to the poor result from Walsall.
Walsall themselves drop from 13th to 15th after being defeated by the hands of Scunthorpe United 4-1 at the Bescot Stadium.
Barnsley move from 17th to 16th, they beat rooted Yeovil 2-0 at home.
Scunthorpe United move up one position from 18th to 17th, their surprising win over Walsall continues their claim away from the relegation where they had remained for a considerable amount of time within the 2014/2015 campaign.
Coventry City drop from 16th to 18th, they are scheduled to play Swindon Town on Monday.
Crewe Alexandra jump from 22nd to 19th, the League One strugglers beat Gillingham 3-1 at home. Leyton Orient drop from 17th to just outside the relegation zone at 20th, their 1-0 defeat to Fleetwood Town sees them dangerously close to falling into the drop. They share the same amount of points as Gillingham who sit 21st, after the Gills lost 3-1 to fellow strugglers Crewe Alexandra.
After Colchester United's impressive win over Peterborough United, this saw them move 23rd to 22nd. Crawley Town drop from 21st to 23rd despite their 2-2 draw to MK Dons, it wasn't enough to prevent them slipping.
Poor Yeovil Town remain rooted to the foot of the League One table, they ended the weekends fixtures with a 2-0 defeat to Barnsley.
 
 
Match Thread - League One Round-Up - Match Report - Aftermath  
super_ram

League One Round-Up

By super_ram, in News,

There have been some surprising victories for sides in League One within this past weekends fixtures, Crawley, Colchester and Scunthorpe are all within this bracket. Whilst sides like Rochdale, Crewe, Fleetwood and Sheffield United have all triumphed in close and difficult games within their own rights.

The most surprising result would be at the Bescot Stadium where Walsall lost to Scunthorpe, the West Midlands side will be stunned after this defeat.
 
League One Results
Barnsley 2 Yeovil 0
Bradford 1 Rochdale 2
Bristol City 4 Notts County 0
Chesterfield 3 Port Vale 0
Crawley 2 MK Dons 2
Crewe 3 Gillingham 1
Leyton Orient 0 Fleetwood 1
Oldham 2 Doncaster 2
Peterborough 0 Colchester 2
Sheffield United 2 Preston 1
Walsall 1 Scunthorpe 4
 
Upcoming Fixture – Monday 12th January 2015
Coventry v Swindon – Kick Off 7:45pm
 
League Update
Home wins today for Barnsley, Bristol City, Chesterfield, Crewe, Sheffield United and away wins for Rochdale, Colchester and Scunthorpe. This means that Bristol City move 3 points clear of Swindon at the top, though Swindon will hope to beat Coventry in Monday nights fixture. MK Dons move up to 3rd after drawing away at Crawley, while Preston drop to 4th after losing away 2-1 to Sheffield United who remain in 6th place.
At the other end Yeovil remain rooted in bottom place after losing 2-1 at Barnsley. Crawley occupy 23rd place despite drawing away. Colchester move up to 22nd with a surprise 2-0 win away at Peterborough. Gillingham slip into the bottom 4 after their 3-1 loss away at Crewe.
Sheffield United have 36 points, while Gillingham have 25 points, so there are only 11 points separating a promotion or relegation place.
Notts having slipped to 12th place could be overtaken if Coventry win at home against Swindon on Monday and are now just 6 points clear of 21st placed Gillingham. They are however only 5 points behind 6th placed Sheffield United and have played fewer games than some teams around them.
 
 
Match Thread - League One Preview - Match Report - Aftermath  
Joe Jones
A rampant Bristol City performance left Notts County in tatters and sent out a message to the whole of League One that Steve Cotterill's side has what it takes to get themselves into the Championship next season.

The Robins dispatched the Magpies 4-0 to soar back to the top of the third tier, thanks to goals by Joe Bryan, Matt Smith, Jay Emanuel-Thomas and Derrick Williams.
 
Eight minutes is all it took for City to open the scoring, as a sizzling run from Emmanuel-Thomas carved open the visitors’ defence and led to a cross that was bundled in by Bryan.
When Notts talisman Mike Edwards was forced off with an injury in the 11th minute, you just know the tone would be set for the afternoon.
Notts were under the cosh for much of the half and required Roy Carroll to pull off a great save from Korey Smith, before substitute Taylor McKenzie cleared off the line.
And indeed, the hosts doubled their lead just before the break when Luke Freeman’s cross was tapped in by Matt Smith. The ball appeared to have gone out of play in the build-up, but the referee let the goal stand.
Notts showed more intent at the start of the second half, with some penetrating play causing some concern to City, even though Emmanuel-Thomas continued to show glimpses of magic at the other end.
Just after the hour, the visitors were undone again when the 24-year-old former Arsenal academy man surged forward and slotted a low ball past Carroll.
By this point it was game over, and City were enjoying themselves, even though Notts continued to push forward and saw Robins goalkeeper Frankie Fielding require to pull off a save from Garry Thompson.
However, the fourth goal duly came when Bryan cut the ball back from the touchline for Williams to drive a low shot into the far corner past Carroll.
The result means that Notts slip to 12th after a run of three successive losses.

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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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