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Chris
On Tuesday the 12th of March 2013, Notts County put in another less than desired performance as they lost 1-0 to Preston North End. The echo's of discontent from fans rained down from the kop stand, as cries for more passion were clearly being heard. Notts now have to prepare themselves for Scunthorpe United who sit in the 20th position, so many fans will again want to see the desire in our play and the players will have to show a level of passion themselves, pride and dedication, just a sign that we can do much better!

Scunthorpe come into the game having lost two out of three, although they managed to hold off Stevenage to a 1-0 win prior to the two defeats. They narrowly lost to Coventry City 2-1 on the 9th of March 2013, so they can certainly show character.

The return of Dean Leacock will no doubt see interesting changes to the back of the pack, although it would be a shame to cost young Haydn Hollis his place as he been pretty reliable. Jamal Campbell-Ryce and Alan Judge are doubtful to play a part in the game, so we can only speculate that a start is now on the cards for young Curtis Thompson.

Brian Laws has confirmed that there are no fresh injury concerns. He is also set to start his recent loan signing Anthony Forde, who joins them on loan from Wolves. Also, this may come as a surprise to some of our fans, Scunthorpe leading goal scorer Karl Hawley is likely to make his return for the away side at Meadow Lane on Saturday.

The form of both sides seems very much hit and miss If Notts County can keep their heads high and play free flowing, passing football and work on trying to get on the end of chances then we could very well walk away with the 3 points, I certainly hope the fans can help give them a boost and chant, as no doubt they will, but our support can be the light to the recent results, showing we are behind the club regardless of disappointment.

A couple of good showings, improved work rates and possible victories right now would go along way to reward the fans and bring players own morale up, it could also raise interest for next season.

Please help us share our work, we 'pride' ourselves on trying to represent the fans. Thank you for taking the time to read and support us! COYP!
SlockNCFC1991
Watching Nottingham Forest when you could be watching Notts County. Surely every Magpie’s worst nightmare? Well, that was my experience on the 2nd of March. The Reds were coming to Hillsborough and as I live and work in Sheffield, and as both my sisters’ other halves were coming up to experience the Sheffield pub and club scene and watch the Reds, I was asked if I wanted to go along. I liked the pub sounding element, but watching the Reds? A day watching Forest at considerable expense while Notts were playing at Meadow Lane the same day?

As things transpired, partly out of family favour and partly as it would be much easier and cheaper to stay with them if I just went to the match, I went to the Hillsborough away end, and paid £28 for the pleasure. Fortunately Notts had already triumphed at home beforehand, beating Carlisle with an Alan Judge winner, (something I both enjoyed on the pub via Sky Sports News and later learned was a pretty un-entertaining match) so with this in mind I felt I could tolerate the upcoming events much better. The pre pub drinking and food was certainly pleasant and very reasonably priced owing to Sheffield’s impressive range of drinking establishments. However, we cabbed it to Hillsborough and suddenly my worst football nightmares were being realised; I was in an away end full of Forest fans who were singing the songs of the club I enjoy watching lose the most.

The game was actually pretty entertaining. Wednesday reminded me of when Notts turned up a few years ago and won 1-0, a game I also attended – aimless, desperate and essentially playing hoofball. I rather enjoyed making Luke, one of the lads in our group, feel nervous by referring to forest as ‘Forest’ and ‘them’, as I naturally had no desire to refer to Forest as ‘us’. I suspect he was worried too that I’d do what some of my Notts fan mates wanted me to do as well and take off my hoodie to reveal myself to be showing off my proud black and white stripes, but I was either too sensible or too cowardly to oblige. Forest, meanwhile, as much as I would never want to admit it, were brilliant. On the pitch their players passed neatly, Majewski was pure class (for which he was rewarded by a song from the Forest fans seemingly suggesting that the Wednesday fans employ him to ensure their cars remained clean) and ought to have been more than 1 up before withstanding a late Wednesday rally. Billy Davies certainly seems to fit Forest and get them playing brilliantly; at least, except where play offs are concerned (a trait I hope continues). The banter between the fans was fun too – I must admit I joined in the anti-Wednesday and anti-Yorkshire chants, while remaining silent during the Forest songs. The Forest fans singing about “keeping the Red Flag flying high” made me imagine I was actually in a crowd full of communist protesters, which was entertaining for a short time but then I remembered that it’s Forest fans and that they were unlikely to be able to understand such political systems. (I know, cheap dig.)

As an experience though I must confess that I have never felt quite so much an individual in a crowd as I did during this game. I stood (along with all the Forest fans who never seemed to sit down) and smiled ruefully as the admittedly quite impressive noise from the massed Reds was expounded around me. I felt like a spy in a Cold War enemy nation. The one more entertaining aspect was the Forest fan in the row in front who had snuck in a bottle of vodka and was getting progressively more drunk whilst (at least I think it was him) periodically releasing noxious gas that had everyone around us wincing. Other than that it was pretty much just watching the team I always want to see losing beat a team I don’t really like either. The pre and post match experience, however, was much more fun. On this basis I would certainly recommend nights out in Sheffield, both to pubs and clubs. Hopefully Super Notts can do their bit and get promoted and have games at Hillsborough themselves, as well as, of course, games with the other team involved in this match.

To conclude then; unless like me you have a good reason to be there, I would advise wholly embracing the presumably overwhelming feeling that seeing Forest play in a match that does not feature our black and white heroes is something to simply not be done. As A Notts fan I found that however entertaining the match and however good the atmosphere, you are still going to be stood there feeling like Dr Who in a Cyberman parade. And as that image happens to portray me as a lone hero who can think for himself in a large crowd of mindless automatons I am going to use it to bring to a close this piece of writing on what I would consider a snappy ending!
Chris

The Importance of Youth

By Chris, in Media,

The success to any football club isn't an exact science, although having the right balance of skill and desire is usually a good thing for any lower league team. The importance of the youth academy is one of the most desired areas, commonly over-looked and under appreciated. Many successful football clubs make use of this system, keeping the star youngsters and letting go the youth players who sadly do not make the cut. This is no more different at Notts County, where we have seen many good prospects emerge to almost starting 11.

Under the dynamic and inspiring Michael Johnson, he first took the task of managing the reformation of the Notts County youth academy back in 2008.

With his watchful eye, care, and passion for the game many prospects appeared to be coming through the ranks, which is a great achievement in such a short space of time and the volume would give any Notts County manager the task of deciding who deserves a professional contract.

Liam Mitchell, Curtis Thompson, Fabian Speiss, Jake Wholey, Greg Tempest and Hayden Hollis are prime examples of the success of having a youth academy, with many more coming through the system.

Hayden Hollis is a player who is currently the hot topic of discussion for Notts fans, his return to competitive football has seen some great performances from the young man. At the age of 20, he is showing great signs and rightly deserves his chance to cement a starting position.

What's it like coming through the ranks in the academy at Notts County and how does it vary from being a professional?

"Coming through the ranks at notts is a massive achievement as many young lads have failed. Its a massive honour for me to represent notts as a local lad."

After completing a two-year scholarship with us, he signed a one-year professional contract. It wasn't long before he would experience life as a footballer, as he was loaned to Barrow in order to gain experience, where he scored on his début.

You scored on your début at Barrow, how did this feel?

"Scoring for Barrow on my début is also another achievment of mine that I am very proud of. I have massive respect for the club and the manager as they were the ones to take a chance on me and give me my first games in profesional football."

He later returned to Notts County after making 3 appearances, where he then made his league début on the 2nd of January 2012, playing a full 90 minutes against Huddersfield Town. This meant young Hayden Hollis would become the first player to progress from the club's Centre of Excellence to a first-team start since its re-opening in 2008. In the same year as his league début he was loaned out again to Darlington, where he would make a further 9 appearances.

What were your loan spells like and how did it feel to go straight into playing competitive football?

"It was the best feeling ever. Thats all I wanted to do is play football. I enjoyed both loan spells at Barrow and Darlington. The experience I got from both loan spells was vital."

With the absence of Dean Leacock due to suspension, Hollis has continued to make appearances at the club and for myself he has been very impressive. His reading and understanding of the game seems to show that he is exactly what we need at the back, having him able to pair with Manny or Deano is only going to enhance his experience and such a promising sign that the youth system is vital to our own development as a squad.

It's a great pleasure for Pride of Nottingham to be able to speak to someone inspiring, we wish Haydn Hollis the best for the reminder of the season and beyond. Many thanks to him for agreeing to take time out to answer our questions! Thanks Haydn!!

Could you tell us what club you support?

"I always keep my eye out for local teams such as Mansfield and Notts but my main team is Portsmouth. I have followed them for years before playing. I traveled to Europe in 2008 when we got into the uefa cup. I never missed a game."

What was it like working along side Michael Johnson who also started his career at Notts County whilst a young lad?

"There's so much I could say about Michael Johnson. the amount of respect I have for him is out of this world. he made me the player I am today. he is still available now if I needed a chat or any advice. I couldn’t have learned the game off anybody else better in my opinion. he was different class to work with day in day out."

Your recent performances have seen you claim Man of the Match on an impressive return to starting football, How important is this to you as a young player?

"As a young player getting games is vital. Getting man of the match for me was a proud achievement. I still think there is more to come from me so hopefully I will pick up a few more man of the match awards for this football club. When you get the man of the match award as a young player it fills you with so much confidence."
Joe Jones
Arguably Notts County's worst game this season, the Magpies lost this crucial game against Preston 1-0, the Lilywhites bad-tempered and the home team just bad, in a performance which disheartened, frustrated and enraged fans. Chris Kiwomya began the game in a 4-5-1 formation. The team was again somewhat depleted, given the absence of Dean Leacock and Alan Judge. Notts threatened first, as Francois Zoko won the team a corner in the second minute, which however didn't come to much. A decent signal of intent, however.

Just two minutes later, Chris Beavon was denied by Manny Smith as Preston won their first corner of the game, and six minutes later, Beavon broke through and took a shot which deflected out for another corner.

The action in the first quarter of an hour, save for the corners, was largely scrappy and dour, until the fourteenth minute when Joe Garner fed through the lively Beavon, whose powerful shot was again blocked by Smith.

Four minutes later, Notts were once again under the cosh, as a headed clearance by Haydn Hollis was met on the volley by Lee Holmes, which flew just wide of the post.

Jamal Campbell-Ryce was then subbed off as an early injury called time to his game, the winger being replaced by youngster Curtis Thompson.

Notts' display was uninspiring and two-dimensional, and the fans in the Kop were genuinely heartened when Notts won a free kick midway through the first half, but before anything could happen after Sheehan's delivery, the whistle blew and the free kick was then given the other way. Cue groans from the Magpies faithful.

To make matters worse, Preston then took the lead through an own goal from the young Hollis. William Hayhurst was given room, too much room, to cross the ball into the Notts six yard box, and the young defender saw the ball ricochet off his thigh into the net. A farcical own goal befitting a farcical display.

More sloppy play from Notts very nearly saw the Lilywhites make it two, as Nicky Wroe's free kick met Holmes, who got two chances to cross, but first Gary Liddle cleared, then for the latter attempt, Bailey Wright couldn't get his header on target.

As the half drew to a close, Holmes and Beavon continued to harass and torment the Notts defence, and the home team, amazingly, nearly found themselves drawing level as sub Thompson was played through by Jeff Hughes, but Declan Rudd saved.

Hughes followed the save up with a volley which bounced off the crossbar, before Zoko brought the whole affair to an anticlimactic end by firing the effort high into the Kop.

There was still time for Preston to nearly score one final time before the half-time whistle, as Beavon latched onto a clearance and, were it not for imperfect control and Bartosz Bialkowski's skill, would have made it 2-0. As it is, Notts were extremely fortunate to go in only a goal down.

The second half began with intent, the young Thompson proving a handful on the wing with some dangerous crosses. Bishop and Showunmi caused havoc courtesy of his assists and very nearly pulled a goal back.

More tedium followed before a classic route one hoof out of the Preston defence saw Beavon beat Smith before smashing the ball towards goal. Bialkowski proved once again the difference between a bad scoreline and a terrible one.

Chris Kiwomya shifted his formation to 4-4-2 as Arquin replaced the lukewarm Zoko. The Frenchman got an early contribution in as he tested Rudd with a powerful volley.

The rest of the game proved testing viewing for the Notts fans to say the least, as the home side couldn't penetrate the Preston defence and ended up playing what some have dubbed the "crab", that is playing the ball side to side.

There was one final chance for Preston to rub salt into the Notts wound as Bialkowski joined the melee that was an injury time corner. Wroe claimed back the ball and attempted a long-range chip, but missed.

The whistle blew to the sounds of boos and the atmosphere of displeasure and bemusement. This abject display of football, combined with the scoreline, means that the play-offs are all but gone. The season can't end soon enough now for the Magpies, given we have eight games left and nine points to make up.

The sole positives to be taken from the game, aside from Bialkowski once again proving to be far too good for this division, is Curtis Thompson's promising, committed debut.
Chris
Firstly, Pride of Nottingham would like to extend our own thoughts regarding the loss of Notts Fan Joy Sharpe, our thoughts are with her family. It's such a sad sorrow to learn about this, I personally will always remember Joy as a fun, smiling individual. The match report will follow a little later, in the meantime you can read Mr Trews notes below from yesterday edition of #themag. Thank you for taking the time to visit our site, please do re-visit us and take a moment to reflect on Joy. R.I.P a true Notts Fan who inspired!

Good evening everyone and welcome to Meadow Lane for this npower League 1 game against Preston North End, our last scheduled evening game of the season.

With just eight games left after tonight, it’s make or break time in terms of who will be involved in the end of season play-offs. We’ve got our work cut out to make it into the top six, but it’s still possible so has to remain our target.

We have, of course, already started putting some plans in place ahead of next season, but we have to focus on the current campaign, so some decisions will have to wait for now.

One thing remains in no doubt though, and that is my commitment to moving this club forwards, both on and off the pitch. I like to think that the club has come a long way in the past three years, but there is still a lot of hard work to be done and I am relishing the challenges that lie ahead.

There is a real challenge facing our side this evening in the shape of a resurgent Preston North End team. I would like to welcome the players, officials and supporters of our guests to Meadow Lane this evening.

I must end my notes this evening on a sad note, following the tragic passing last week of a lifelong supporter and one of the most ardent commercial sponsors that the club has been lucky enough to have over the years, Joy Sharpe.

Although I only had the pleasure of knowing Joy for a short time, the impact that she has had on Notts County will never be forgotten. A true stalwart of the club, who was always ready to help in any way she could, Joy will be sorely missed by everyone who knew her and everyone associated with Notts County Football Club.

RIP Joy.

Ray Trew
Chairman

Pride of Nottingham would like to thank Mr Trew and the Media Team for these notes.
Chris
Preston who sit 17th in League One, find themselves facing Notts County at Meadow Lane. The tie originally scheduled to fall in December, which was postponed, is a game against two sides who's fans will be saying 'What if?'. Notts County 10th, still have an outside bet of reaching the playoffs but it will be games like this which ultimately seal our fate. We've taken the time to speak with two Preston fans and we sincerely hope you enjoy this feature. We appreciate your time reading, sharing and inspiring us.

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

James: I'm James Shuttleworth, a 20 year-old Literature student at Bangor University. Born in Preston, live in the town of Leyland when not at University. I've been a North Ender since the age of 7 due to my Dad being a fan of many years before me.

Ben: I am a 17 year old college student who is a season ticket holder, and has been since the age of 6, however my first game was at the age of 3, a 3-0 win over Ford United in the F.A Cup in 1998.

Simon Grayson were on the lips of many Notts County fans to replace Keith Curle, How happy are you with the appointment and who did the majority of Preston fans want?

James: I'm very pleased with the appointment of Simon Grayson. With the track record of 3 promotions with 3 clubs from this division, who wouldn't be happy? A few of the more deluded fans wanted Nigel Adkins, others touting Owen Coyle. Simon was the favourite pretty much from the off, though.

Ben: Most fans are delighted with Simon as the new manager, he has a proven track record in this league, and most have seen through his past allegiances with 'that lot down the road' and welcomed him as manager. Most fans wanted Grayson as soon as the odds came out, some wanted Owen Coyle but would be way out of our price range, whilst some wanted the local lad, Gareth Ainsworth in.

Who at the start of the season did you see getting promoted?

James: For me, it was hard to look past the force that is always Sheffield United. I'm not a huge lover of them (to say the least), but they're always good. I'd also thought Doncaster and Bournemouth would be up there, so they'd probably have been my 3.

Ben: For me, it would have to be Sheffield United and Doncaster automatically, and Bournemouth through the play-offs. Both the Yorkshire clubs had the players to succeed in this divison with lots of experience throughout both line-ups, whilst Bournemouth spent a lot in the summer to create their squad.

Start of the season Preston were looking like strong contenders for promotion, where did the season go wrong?

James: Westley's constant switching up of the team certainly did us no favours. A couple of injuries here and there and a drop in home form (resulting in a lack of confidence) added to the pressure.

Ben: Graham Westley. That's where it went wrong. The season did start well, Carling Cup wins over Huddersfield and Crystal Palace, big wins in the league over Swindon, Doncaster and Hartlepool, however, and somewhat coincidentally, the slide started after the reverse of this upcoming fixture, at Deepdale. Both of our full-backs, Keith Keane, and more notoriously, Scott Laird, were ruled out for some time and we never looked the same after that. We went on a run of 8 league games after that before we could find a win, then another 5 games without a win in the league, and the collapse at Coventry in the Johnstones Paint Trophy was especially hard to take. It's an understatement to say that some of the players didn't get on with Westley and did not agree with his methods. In the end, he had to go, he had lost the dressing room. It's no surprise to see once he had gone, we haven't lost since.

What's your hopes for the rest of the remaining season?

James: My hopes for the rest of our season are to consolidate, pick up a few home wins and finish in the top 14. It would be good if Simon could continue what he's done in the first few games - keep a steady starting XI and let them work out any issues with their play. From experience, I like to think that consistency breeds success in a football club.

Ben: Get a good run of results, steer away from the relegation zone and play attractive, winning football. On the basis of what I have seen so far of the post-Westley era, i'm convinced Grayson is the right man for the job. However, we will need to see in the summer what moves he makes in regards to transfers.

Please share a memory from your earliar days of supporting Preston North End?

James: The earliest memory I have is of a home game against Grimsby. 'Super' Jonny Macken scored after 17 seconds. We proceeded to lose 2-1. That season was brilliant - we were newly promoted, beat Birmingham in the play-off semi-final and went to the Millennium Stadium. We got thumped 3-0 by Bolton Wanderers, but we won't dwell on that too much.

Ben: The 2000/2001 Championship play-off semi-final 2nd leg, which was at Deepdale, we hosted Birmingham City, trailing 1-0 from the first leg at St.Andrews, if I remember correctly, Nicky Eaden got the goal. We had a great start in the second leg, leveling the tie through David Healy, but Geoff Horsfield restored the Blues lead in the second half. The normally level-headed Graham Alexander crashed a penalty against the bar after this, which shocked the majority of the crowd, he was a penalty expert. We thought it was all over when Lazardis rounded David Lucas in the 89th minute, but somehow, his shot from a tight angle trickled all the way across the goal without going in, and the counter attack started, and was put in at the other end by Mark Rankine, who wasn't known for his attacking prowess. We survived several scares in extra time, and subsequently won the penalty shootout, despite Trevor Francis' protests at the penalty kicks not being taken at the empty end which was once the Town End, instead they were taken infront of the vocal North Ens fans in the Bill Shankly Kop. We did go on to lose the final in Cardiff to Bolton Wanderers, but it wasn't bad for a team who'd just come off a promotion from League One.

How is Scott Laird's recovery going?

James: Scott has tweeted recently about his recovery. He got back to running lightly a couple of weeks ago, so he's steadily coming back. The club has hopes to get him fit to take a decent part in pre-season and be ready for the start of next season.

Ben: He's started running again in training, although won't be fully fit until pre-season. It was a shame to lose him as he was by far our best and most consistent player before the injury, and i'm still a bit bitter to this day as I feel it changed our season for the worse. We just hope he returns the same player he was before the injury.

How much of a loss his Scott's absence to your starting line up?

James: Losing Scotty was a huge blow. He was, at the time, easily our most influential player. Solid in defence, quick up and down the wing and a great attacking threat. Also, he was top of our assists charts at the time! We have David Buchanan who has deputised well, but he's not the same player.

Ben: For the first few months he was a major loss. We missed his attacking presence down the left. We thought we had a very able replacement in David Buchanan, who was Tranmere's player of the season last year, but things weren't going right for him, and towards the end of Westley's tenure, Buchanan was replaced by youth team player Ben Davies. Since Westley has gone, Buchanan admitted that he and the ex-gaffer didn't see eye to eye, and his performances have sky-rocketed since.

Which Notts County players do you consider to poise a threat to your defence and why?

James: I see Francois Zoko as a threat, simply because he reputedly 'nearly' signed for us during the summer but opted for Notts instead. Also, I'd consider Alan Judge to be a tricky customer. Our defence has shored up reasonably well recently though, and the lads will arrive with a clean sheet under their belts. It should be a tight affair.

Ben: We know all about Francois Zoko, he destroyed us at Deepdale in his Carlisle days on Boxing Day 2011, we also know Alan Judge is a very creative threat from midfield, he can do anything.

Can you tell us which Preston players we should be aware of and who is your key player?

James: The wingers. Lee Holmes and Will Hayhurst. Lee is a classy player for this level - if it weren't for injury then he'd be a Championship player. Sweet left foot on him. Young Will has scored 3 goals in 3 games from the left flank, so he's a massive threat too. The likes of Stuart Beavon and Nicky Wroe also can't be overlooked - Beavs has picked up a few goals and Nicky chipped in with a hat-trick at Scunthorpe earlier in the season.

Ben: Stuart Beavon is an absolute workhorse upfront and runs himself into the ground for the team, whilst also scoring goals, 10 this season he's tallied so far, but he would have liked to have more. It's hard to look past our wing wizards at this stage, with Lee Holmes putting in some dazzling performances, but Will Hayhurst has been taking the plaudits as of late. The 19 year old who suffered two leg breaks in his youth team days, has grown in stature since some tame performances in the first few months of the season, and has netted 3 goals in his last 3 games, and if he carries on, clubs from the higher echelons will start to notice his talents. Even better that he's a local lad, supported PNE as a boy and will give it all for the club.

Do you have a favourite away day and who were you not looking forward to visiting this season?

James: Due to being away from home, I haven't made it to many games this season - but surprisingly, made it to a few away games! I enjoyed the trip to Hartlepool on New Years Day. Without meaning to offend Pools, it was a quaint trip to an older style ground. I also made it to the Ricoh Arena twice in a couple of weeks - including the JTP Northern semi-final on my birthday, where Steve Simonsen forgetting how to use his hands cost us dearly. So I'd have to say, Coventry holds the worst away day feeling for me at the moment!

Ben: I'd have to say Bury was my favourite away day. We outnumbered the home support, taking close to 3,000 fans to Gigg Lane, and won 2-1 thanks to goals from Shane Cansdell-Sherriff and Akpo Sodje, who have both departed the club, SCS only on loan. I wasn't looking forward to visiting Colchester as we never seem to get a result in the deep heart of Essex, and we didn't, losing 1-0. I would like Blackpool to be relegated this season though, it'd be nice to have a closer game seeing as Bury is our local derby being 45 minutes away!

Please tell us about your current favourite player and your all-time hero?

James: My current favourite player has to be Scott Laird. Driving force, passionate about the game and very talented. Otherwise, I've a soft spot for our (currently) sub keeper Thorsten Stuckmann. Pulls off some blinders, full of passion and a generally nice lad.

All-time hero - Graham Alexander. A real-life Roy of the Rovers.

Ben: My current favourite player is Stuart Beavon, who like I said works his socks off for the benefit of the team. My all-time hero would be Sean Gregan. He lifted our last trophy when we won League One in 2000, and gave many good performances before being sold to West Bromwich Albion in 2002. We called him 'God' for a reason!

Pride of Nottingham would like to Thank James (check out his band) and Ben (PrestonPlumber) for taking the time to answer our question. We would like to throw a special mention to our own WeymouthPie who helped locating James when we thought this feature would be lost.
Joe Jones
In the lower reaches of the Football League, the turnaround of players at football clubs is generally quite high.
Contracts tend to be one or two year deals, and players who fail to make the grade are shipped out or let go before long, while better players are more inclined to make the step up to bigger clubs in higher divisions who can offer better wages and challenge for honours. 
Mike Edwards, however, bucks that trend. Over two spells, the combative defender has been on the books of Notts County for a combined total of over ten years, becoming club captain and playing over 300 games for the Magpies in the process.
Born in Hessle, a town near Hull, on 25 April 1980, the Yorkshireman began his career at Hull City, joining the club as a trainee. He made his debut in December 1997 away at Rotherham United and turned professional at the end of the season.
Edwards is loved by the Hull fans because, aside from making over 200 appearances for the club, he was the last East Riding protege to be raised and discovered locally and to work through the schoolboy and apprentice ranks to become a fully-fledged first team player.
He was part of the famous Great Escape team of 1998/9, which survived relegation from the Football League after being rooted at the bottom of the table for much of the season, and continued to thrive under managers Brian Little and Jan Molby before suffering a cruciate injury. Peter Taylor arrived and, sadly for Edwards, decided to release him just as he was restoring his fitness.
A short spell at Colchester United in 2003 was followed by a season at Grimsby Town, and in the 03/04 close season, he was signed by then Notts manager Gary Mills on a free transfer.
He quickly established himself in the heart of defence for the Magpies, relegated from the Second Division the season before, but just ten games into the season, a cruciate ligament injury suffered against West Ham in the League Cup ruled him out for six months.
As Mills was replaced by Gudjon Thordarson, the defender recovered and was back in the first team by the time the 2005/06 campaign began. A versatile and committed player, Edwards played all 50 league and cup games during the troubled season, both in central defence and central midfield, and did enough to earn a new two-year deal.
The following season, his consistency, talent and commitment to the cause saw Notts finish the season comfortably in mid-table, a massive improvement on the year before, as well as embarking on a great League Cup run which saw them defeat Crystal Palace, Middlesbrough and Southampton (against whom he scored). His reward was the Player of the Season award and the club captaincy.
In a cruel turn of events, Edwards then suffered another long-term injury in the 07/08 pre-season. A dislocated right ankle, fractures to both bones in his lower leg and ligament damage meant he was ruled out until the end of January.
Notts missed him terribly, only surviving relegation by the skin of their teeth in the last two games of the season, and the club recognised his importance by offering him a new deal, the player more than happy to repay the faith showed to him by the club in the face of his injury problems.
"Steady Eddy" was ever-present in 08/09, playing 43 league games as Notts, aided by points deductions to several teams in the league, survived another season in the Football League.
http://i.telegraph.co.uk/multimedia/archive/01992/eljero-elia-mike-e_1992927i.jpg
Then came the oddity that was the 09/10 season and everything that came with it, as Notts were taken over by the enigmatic entity that was Munto.
A season that began on a high, with promises of investment and marquee players and staff coming to Meadow Lane, soon became a confusing and anxious mess as the takeover turned out to be fraudulent, but luckily there was a happy ending as the club finished top of the league and the ownership and financial issues were resolved.
Despite all the uncertainty, Edwards played 40 league games and scored 5 goals as Notts were promoted with 93 points, and for his efforts was awarded another new two-year deal.
Back in League One, Edwards initially lost his first-team place to the pairing of Graeme Lee and Krystian Pearce, but soon, unsurprisingly perhaps, won his place back, and played a total of 39 league games as Notts consolidated their position in the third tier. He also captained his side, and played his 500th professional game, in the fixtures against eventual FA Cup winners and future champions of England, Manchester City.
The 2011/12 season saw Steady Eddy become one of a select few to play 300 games for the Magpies, reaching the milestone against Scunthorpe United in March, and also played against Juventus in the historic first game at the Juventus Stadium.
When Edwards was only offered a one-year deal at the end of the season, he decided to up sticks for a more secure contract, joining Carlisle United, and it looked like the love affair between Notts and him would be consigned to history.
Like all good love stories, however, this also came with a happy ending because, two years later, he returned to Meadow Lane as a coach, and also registered as a player to help the team out in times of need.
As it turned out, Edwards played a total of 21 games in his first season back in black and white, scoring three goals in the process, and in 2015/16 he upped his game considerably, bagging FIVE goals in just 17 games - the kind of rate you could expect from an attacking midfielder - including TWO braces.
In 2016/17 he was used much more sparingly, but still appeared twice from the bench against Cambridge United and Barnet in November, and this season, with the club under a new lease of life under Alan Hardy, he has been able to get on properly with his coaching role at last, although he is also registered as a player and can be called upon if need be.
Mike Edwards' statistics speak for themselves. He has played or otherwise worked under TWENTY-FOUR different managers or caretakers at Notts - Gary Mills, Ian Richardson, Gudjon Thordarson, Steve Thompson, Ian McParland, Michael Johnson, Hans Backe, Dave Kevan, Steve Cotterill, Craig Short, Paul Ince, Carl Heggs, Martin Allen, Keith Curle, Shaun Derry, Paul Hart, Mick Halsall, Ricardo Moniz, Richard Dryden, Jamie Fullarton, Mark Cooper, John Sheridan, Alan Smith and now Kevin Nolan (hopefully the list stops there for at least a couple of years).
He was a figure of stability, professionalism and consistency over one of the most turbulent eras at the club and is still giving his all for Notts now that stability is back.
For all this and more, Steady Eddy will forever be remembered as one of Notts County Football Club's all-time greats.
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Joe Jones
Notts County were lucky today against Crawley. Very very lucky. The amount of times they got out of jail today, you could write another series of Prison Break. Both teams were very attack-minded and got plenty of shots in, but some instances of slack defending by Notts would have surely seen Crawley pick up maximum points as they edged the Magpies on the attacking front. The referee, however, was very lenient, and you cannot blame the Crawley players and fans for feeling aggrieved when no penalty was given for Manny Smith handling the ball in the Notts box in injury time.

The Notts team sheet was surprising to say the least. With Dean Leacock suspended and Alan Judge picking up a knock against Orient, the replacements came in the form of Smith and Hamza Bencherif. However, Francois Zoko, Yoann Arquin and John Cofie were all benched, with the untested Jacob Blyth the lone frontman in a 4-5-1 formation.

The game began in a lively manner, Haydn Hollis facing up against Jamie Proctor early on and coming off best. Within five minutes, Neal Bishop released Jamal Campbell-Ryce early on and the winger won a corner, taken by Sheehan but easily cleared.

Although Blyth was officially the lone forward, he was supported up front by JCR and Bencherif, the youngster serving a kind of support role for the others by knocking on headers thanks to his strong aerial presence.

First proper chance of the game came to Proctor, whose strong effort from outside the box was tipped round the post by Bartosz Bialkowski.

JCR, criticised in recent weeks for below-par displays, was on great form again today, the winger threatening down the wing with his swerving runs and decent crosses, and on ten minutes, even attemped to chip the keeper like Judge did against Carlisle, but Paul Jones wasn't beaten.

Unlike the grittier displays of the last few games, Notts were very cohesive and played a strong passing possession game, to the point that the travelling fans began chanting "Ole!". However, Crawley also threatened, Matt Sparrow coming very close several times, but Bialkowski was in top form again.

Half an hour in, a good run by JCR saw him find Boucaud, who then set up Hughes for a good effort which was tipped wide.

The first half soon became very physical, as Hughes found himself both giving and receiving fouls, before Gary Liddle upended Nicky Adams for a yellow card. He also received a retaliatory foul later on for his troubles.

The first half finished 0-0, both sides putting in a strong display and having several good chances on goal.

After the food/drink/toilet/cigarette break, the 458 travelling Notts fans saw their team shoot towards their end, and the Magpies came at Crawley straight away, Bishop getting a shot in on goal, but the ref had already blown as Bencherif, ineffective in the first half, had fouled Jones.

Ten minutes into the second half, Blyth's ball penetrated the Crawley defence on the counter-attack, but JCR couldn't connect. Just a few minutes later, Bishop went for a very ambitious effort from over 30 years out.

The attack-minded Magpies were at times exposed in defence, and Adams was given way too much space outside the Notts box on 62 minutes, though he couldn't convert.

Five minutes later, Adams was just a tap-in away from giving Crawley the lead, but Liddle did just enough to knock it out of play. Predictably, the first substitution of the day for Notts saw Bencherif replaced by Zoko.

More get-out-of-jail antics ensued on 70 minutes as Hollis hit the ball against his own bar, Notts fans' hearts in mouths.

Blyth was the next to go, Showunmi replacing the on-loan Leicester player, and his impact was immediate, testing Jones with two good attempts on goal.

The final quarter of an hour was frantic, with both sides going all out for the win. Hollis made up for his earlier mistake with some sturdy defending, bailing out Boucaud and making some great tackles in the box to deny Crawley.

JCR was the last player to make way for a benched team-mate, coming off for John Cofie. The loanee made a mistake soon after coming on, losing the ball and allowing Crawley to break, but luckily that came to nothing.

The home team kept threatening, but they seemed to be suffering from the same problems as Notts up front, ie plenty of chances but nobody to convert into goals.

Proctor flashed a header past the Notts goal but Liddle cleared.

The last few minutes saw both teams huff and puff, but the whistle finally blew on a 0-0 draw which, in all fairness, seemed about right, but not before the controversial penalty appeal.

In the grand scheme of things, another draw isn't the ideal result if we're to push for the play-offs, but the travelling Notts fans can be pleased with the boys' performance as a whole, especially Hollis, who surely seems to have made a first-team place his, and really, we were very lucky to survive the waves of Crawley attacks and escape with a point.
UniPie
After a disappointing showing on Wednesday night, Notts have had just 2 full days to prepare for Saturdays away trip to Crawley. With Wednesday looking like 2 points dropped, it seems Notts will be unable to reach the play offs this season. So with this in mind, let us have a look at what tomorrow might install. Notts are 3 places higher sat in 10th over Crawley by 2 points. However Crawley have 2 games in hand over Notts and for a team that has been very quiet all season, Crawley will be looking to join Notts on level points.

Crawley have lost 1 game in their last 5 matches and beat Bury 2-0 in their latest match whilst drawing to Carlisle 1-1 in the match prior to that. Notts’ loss on Wednesday came on the back of a win against Carlisle and a point against Tranmere.

The biggest blow for Notts comes as Dean Leacock picked up his 10th yellow card of the season and will miss tomorrows match. Leacock has certainly been a lynch pin of the Notts back four (or three) and will be sorely missed. This will provide however a chance to Manny Smith who has been suffocated of any game times this season. Of course, this is no certainty as Haydn Hollis put in a solid performance on Wednesday and could be partnered up with Gary Liddle at centre half. Both John Cofie and Julian Kelly are likely to miss out on tomorrows match with a facial injury and hamstring problem respectively.

Crawley could see the return of their top goal scorer Billy Clarke who has netted 12 goals already this season. He did not feature midweek and is likely to be much stronger and fitter in time for Notts’ game tomorrow. Crawley captain Josh Simpson is still absent with an ankle injury and Kyle McFadzean is still absent with a virus that he contracted in November.

Tomorrows match is certainly one in which features many injuries and absentees. Notts, although collecting more points than has been the case this season, have not been performing to a very good standard. It is likely that tomorrow will be a scrappy affair with both teams attempting to grind out a result to better off their standing. Notts still look unable to score and with Leacock missing, the midfield will be oh so vital in protecting the back line, as well as aiding the front pairing.

With all this considered, I am going to predict a draw tomorrow. The speculative score prediction would be 0-0 with Notts looking unable to do anything but defend and Crawley being a middle of the park team who have not been able to break down teams this season. All that said, expect a 4-4 all draw tomorrow…
Joe Jones
We're in the final lap now for the promotion places, and the sprint is on. The reward for those who finish in the podium positions is the opportunity to win a place in the Championship. Notts are one of those teams that are lagging behind the leading pack, but just as it seemed like they were building momentum and maybe, just maybe, would be able to edge into contention, they stumbled against Leyton Orient and the gap may now prove too wide to finish into the play-offs.

Chris Kiwomya once against tinkered with his formation and began the game in 4-4-2, as Haydn Hollis partnered Dean Leacock in centre-back, Gary Liddle moved to right-back and Jeff Hughes was dropped to the bench.

The O's started the game as the brighter side, and within ten minutes had the ball in the back of the net, but Charlie MacDonald was ruled offside.

They continued pressuring Notts, who were barely able to even venture out of their own half and were guilty of losing and giving away possession a number of times. However, Orient weren't able to muster anything more meaningful than long range shots.

A good break from Notts saw Francois Zoko find Jamal Campbell-Ryce, but O's keeper Jamie Jones claimed the ball from the cross.

On 32 minutes, Notts took the lead in impressive fashion. Boucaud, Bishop, Zoko and Judge combined to split open the Orient defence before the skipper curled a great finish past Jones. 1-0 to the Magpies.

Rattled, the O's came back all guns blazing, Jimmy Smith smashing the crossbar shortly after the restart.

John Cofie, the Man Utd loanee, had to be withdrawn on 40 minutes as he suffered a facial injury, suspected to be a fractured cheekbone. Yoann Arquin came on for the youngster.

Dean Leacock came close to doubling the Notts lead, while winger Moses Odubajo fired wide in injury time for Orient.

Zoko was replaced by Jeff Hughes at half time, and the Northern Irishman's pace was instrumental in setting up Arquin early on in the second half, but the forward fired straight at Jones.

After a few half-decent attempts by the home side, Notts then proceeded to undo all their good work so far as Leacock cynically fouled MacDonald in the box. Kevin Lisbie kept his composure in front of the loudly booing Notts fans and fired a cool, calm shot past Bartosz Bialkowski to draw the game level.

The game opened up as both teams desperately chased a winner. Sadly for Notts, some of the issues of old resurfaced, as the forwards struggled to really test the away keeper, either firing wide or directly at him.

Andre Boucaud attempted a powerful long-range shot but it whistled past the right-hand post, while in the final minute, JCR was denied after connecting with a defence-splitting chip by Alan Judge. At the other end, Hollis, having been superb all game, denied Romain Vincelot with a last-ditch block to keep the scoreline at 1-1.

The final whistle finally blew on a frustrating performance which promised so much but delivered only a draw, which leaves Notts in tenth place. There are ten more games to go and Notts are seven points adrift of the play-offs, so you never know what could happen, but there is no more room for slip-ups now if Notts are to better last season's finish and squeeze into the coveted top six.
Chris

PoN on One - #1

By Chris, in Media,

Which club holds the dubious distinction of scoring the fewest goals and conceding the most goals in the Premier League – unfortunately in the same 38-game season?

Dan: I think that was Derby.

Dave: Thats easy (sorry super_ram) - Derby County

Which three English players have each scored five goals in a Premier League game?

Dan: Andy Cole did it for Man U v Ipswich I believe. Shearer must've done & a guess at Robbie Fowler.

Dave: Andy Cole, Alan Shearer, D Burbatov (? not sure on spelling), though I think Defoe may have as well.

Can you name two goalkeepers who moved from Mansfield Town to Notts County and further two who moved from Notts County to Mansfield Town (including loans)

Dan: Liam Mitchell went this season to Stags. I think Darren Ward left us to go to Notts. We had David Grof on loan from Notts. Struggling with the other one. Must be Kevin Pilkington?

Dave: Notts to Mansfield - David Grof and Liam Mitchell

Mansfield to Notts - Darren Ward and, er, I cant remember

Who were the 12 founder members of the football league?

Dan: Blimey that's hard. Preston, Notts, Aston Villa, Sheff Wed, West Brom, Wolves, Old Etonians?, Bolton, Blackburn, Burnley, Sheff Utd, Stoke.

Dave: Back to schoolboy days

Accrington, Aston Villa, Blackburn Rovers, Bolton, Burnley, Derby County, Everton, Notts County (You Pies), Preston North End, Stoke FC, West Bromwich Albion and Wolverhampton Wanderers

Can you name Notts County's current highest goal scorer and by how many goals?

Dan: I think its Les Bradd as I've heard him on Radio Nottingham a few times. Dunno how many he got though, I'll say 250.

Dave: Jamal Campbell-Ryce, 8 goals, leading by 1

Which football club does this stadium belong too?



Dan: Nuneaton

Dave: Tyrell Waite could answer this one, Nuneaton Town (Boro to a lot of fans)

A very close response, question 5 clearly misunderstood poor Dan and I'll word things a little better next time.

Dan: 3 Points
Dave: 4 Points

(I would have given Dave full marks had Pilks been mentioned)

Pride of Nottingham would like to Thank Dan (who must be very busy) for taking part, we'd also like to Thank dave (our resident 2pies) for taking part also, adding Berbatov... honestly you astound me Dave!! Well Done.
Chris

My World - R.I.P Grandad

By Chris, in Media,

When I was little, my brother (older) was always playing football in the garden. I showed very little signs early on of being interested as I preferred playing with toys. I used to spend hours with plastic toy soldiers, these days children don't play enough or go outside but once I did start playing football I quickly fell in love with the sport. I'm hoping my son will also take to the sport, as I think it will do wonders for his confidence. I think it's easier when the people who surround you inspire and draw you into it, which Jake doesn't.

Growing up, I fondly recall my father taking my brother to Derby games. I always wanted to go, it disappointed me that I would always tend to be overlooked. This was something my Grandfather noticed and it's how my love for Notts County started.

Being a young impressionable boy, I mainly liked teams I could watch on television. I used to watch division one games (now the championship).

When I wasn't watching television or playing with my toys, I would be outside playing football with my brother and I quickly became obsessed with playing. Usually towards the end of the week, we would all play outside in the garden and I really thrived being able to play.

My grandfather who was a huge Notts County fanatic would tell me stories, I used to listen with a glee in my eyes and I would always ask him to continue telling me about a story despite there being nothing else to say.

He could tell the most amazing stories, his facts and knowledge were like no other. You could ask a question about the early days which he saw as a boy himself and he would relive it in crystal clear detail.

I'll never forget the kindness, the life lessons he taught me and even now I get upset thinking that he's gone. It's something in honesty I have never got over, he was such an important part of my life and a big role model too.

My early memories of attending games with him always involved around our Wembley trips, he would never allow me or my brother to miss out on going.

I can remember travelling one time in a supporters coach, my grandfather parked his car at my uncles arcade and we waited opposite, outside a pub. This really annoying guy would always make a fuss of my brother and I. My grandfather was an extremely well liked man. Being young however, I hated it when strangers would come up to us and sort of steal our attention.

There's a photo he took,somewhere in my parents house of a goal whilst he and my brother visited a play off final, I think I recall it being against Brighton .

Despite being high up, my grandfather being the person he was, posed with my brother on his shoulders, very fond memory despite not actually being there. I do however flicker back to when we won the Anglo Italian Cup and he did the same thing to both me and my brother, although he was unable to take a photo of course.

On a daily basis he would keep me informed on Notts's news, It was harder when I were little to check on what was going on, no internet and limited resources, it was great being able to bond with my grandfather in this way.

The trips to Meadow Lane were always special, he would always put us first and no matter if he couldn't afford it really, he would still take us.

I used to be fairly confident as a child but I didn't like speaking too much in certain situations. He would often call players so I was able to obtain signatures and I can recall him speaking with Michael Johnson and Phil Turner.

It's a shame I no longer can recall the games that I attended with him, I do recall the Wembley trips but league and home cup ties are virtually just a vague recollection.

My grandfather would collect programmes and thanks to him we have some very old programmes, in fact the earlier one's are no more than team sheets but very rare and special. I've continued this with my son, I collect and ask him to read them to me which he enjoys doing.

Sadly in 05/03/2000 my grandfather passed away at the age of 71, he had believed to be suffering from bronchitis but it turned out to be cancer.

Whenever an occasion would come about that was special, he would guarantee that my brother and I would be there.

The 97/98 season was so special for this reason, I enjoyed having him lift me and proudly hold me in the air like I was the league trophy. On the final game he fell down some steps at Meadow Lane and hurt himself, I tried to help him as I know he would of done me.

The last game I recall going with him was the friendly against Arsenal, he took me for two reasons 1) he didn't think I would see such a team for awhile at Meadow Lane and 2) since I liked them. He spent awhile trying to get Arsenal players in-attendance to sign the programme he bought me and I safely kept somewhere.

I've avoided this sort of thing because it's hard when you lose someone when you're young, in such an unexpected way but I hope he's proud of me. I certainly think my life would have been different had he not been around, so in many ways I have him to thank for so much more than introducing me to Notts County.

He's the proud great grandfather my own children would look up to, my father shares a similar relationship with them as I did with my grandfather.

Raymond Townrow was more than my grandfather, he was my world. I'm thankful that I know he'll be looking after mine and Kate's daughter who we lost so tragically. I take great strength knowing she would have been well looked after with him, so Thank you granddad.
Chris
After a draw against Tranmere Rovers, Notts county return to Meadow Lane where they beat Bury FC 4-1 live on sky sports. Mr Trews notes found in the Carlisle United edition of #themag touches upon the armed forces who were present for charity at Meadow Lane and promoting the good work of Prostate Cancer UK. As always the notes are a highlight with the award winning programme and we're very proud to feature this on our website.

Good afternoon everyone and welcome to Meadow Lane for this npower League 1 game against Carlisle United, our first home game since Chris Kiwomya was officially named as manager.

We have some very special guests with us this afternoon, in representatives from the Territorial Army and SSAFA (Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen & Families Association) promoting the work of our armed forces and helping raise money to help support those that have served for our country.

I have a tremendous amount of respect for the armed forces and the brave men and women who protect our interests and freedom both at home and abroad, so I hope you will make our guests feel most welcome and give generously if you see the collectors around the ground.

We are also promoting the good work of Prostate Cancer UK, the official charity of the Football League for this season. As the most common form of cancer amongst men in the UK, we owe it to our fans to raise awareness of this disease and the treatments and support available to those affected by it.

Lots going on off the pitch then, but of course the reason that we are all here is to see what happens on it and to that end I would like to welcome the players, officials and of course the supporters of Carlisle United to Meadow Lane.

As I mentioned, this is Chris Kiwomya’s first home game since being confirmed as full-time manager and I hope that you will all get behind him as we look to build on the encouraging start that he has made in the job.

I thought that we deserved more from the game at Tranmere on Tuesday night, but if we maintain that level of performance, we will get the rewards that we deserve in the run-in to the end of the season.

Onwards and upwards
Ray Trew
Chairman

Many Thanks to Mr Trew for the notes and the Media Team.
Joe Jones
The sun was shining, the weather was mild, the sky was cloudless today at Meadow Lane. By contrast, the display on the pitch, save for a few bright spells, was overcast and grey, but crucially, Notts County finished the game with three very important points which ensured beaming smiles on the supporters' faces and left the club with a much better outlook for the rest of the season.

Chris Kiwomya, forced to take Julian Kelly's absence into consideration - the full-back is recovering from a calf injury - switched the Notts formation to 3-5-2, slotting Jeff Hughes into the left wing position and shifting Alan Judge to central attacking midfield.

The game began slowly, with a couple of half-chances by Carlisle in the opening exchanges, before Notts threatened in the eleventh minute, but John Cofie lost possession when close to goal.

Francois Zoko, the former Carlisle player involved in the previous move, then set up Judge after beating Frank Simek on the left wing, but the Irishman's chip was caught by keeper Mark Gillespie.

Carlisle had a good chance afterwards, when Gary Liddle blocked Liam Noble's goalbound effort, but afterwards, for a good twenty minutes, both teams were bogged down in midfield and not much happened.

This changed all of a sudden when Cofie picked out Judge, who marauded into the Carlisle penalty box and, catching Gillespie off his line, majestically chipped the ball over the keeper. 1-0, 35 minutes played, the crowd delighted at what they'd just seen.

Neal Bishop threatened five minutes later with a quick breakaway, but couldn't find a player to feed the ball through to. Shortly afterwards, a scramble in the Notts box very nearly led to a Carlisle goal were it not for another great goal-line clearance, this time by Alan Sheehan.

In injury time, Notts nearly doubled their lead, but Zoko couldn't finish a move started by Sheehan, who crossed into the area.

One player who stood out for Carlisle was Lee Miller. Although the majority of the time it was for bad behaviour and baiting the Notts players, he did get a good shot on goal in the 57th minute when a great Bartosz Bialkowski save denied him from six yards out.

Just a few minutes later, Sean O'Hanlon was a dead cert to equalise, but again Bart managed to miraculously keep the shot out, so much so both sets of fans applauded him for his save.

Later on in the game, Notts were under the cosh and needed Bart to bail them out again, James Berrett's fine hit parried behind by the Pole.

The skilled Andre Boucaud, towards the end of the game, unleashed a thunderbolt from 30 yards which smashed against the crossbar and into the crowd, before a fingertip save by Joe Jones and a catch by Notts Joe ensured the ball was back in the keeper's hands promptly. Good honest ball work, no time-wasting and ball-spooning akin to ball boys working for trophy-winning Welsh sides.

The much-maligned Miller finally received his marching orders in the last few minutes, as a headbutt on sub Joss Labadie earnt him a straight red card. His ignominious trudge back to the dressing room was accompanied by the very satisfying chanting of "cheerio, cheerio, cheerio" by the Notts crowd.

Despite some last-ditch Carlisle pressure, Notts were well organised and kept the waves of attacks at bay, and when the final whistle went, it was a cause for celebration as the Magpies earned three desperately needed points, courtesy of the Irish Messi's solitary goal, and managed to keep a clean sheet.

Notts remain tenth on 52 points with a game in hand, eight points off the playoffs, and unbeaten in five with three draws and two wins.
Chris
Carlisle suffered defeat at the hands of Walsall on 26/02/2013, Carlisle have found themselves in poor form in recent games. Notts County come off the back of a draw against Tranmere, which was a game that sounded like we had controlled fairly well. We've taken the time to speak with Dave ahead of our game against Carlisle, the first opposition view in recent times due to being unable to locate an interested party. We hope to continue to feature opposition views when possible.

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

I've been a Carlisle United fan on-and-off since I was a child, although annoyingly I only started going to the games with family the year after our only top flight season. I was an early connector to the Internet, though, and I ran one of the first Carlisle United fansites - Reeves Is Offside Again!

How do you feel about Carlisle United coming into the game on Saturday and what do you think the result will be?

CUFC have been so inconsistent this season that we don't know what to expect from any game, although we do seem to win a few, then have a humiliating defeat, then get a few good results again.

You previously lost to Walsall in what sounded like a very good game, was this a game you were looking forward to?

Not particularly, unfortunately, as my gut feeling was that this was going to be our humiliating defeat, and so it turned out to be.

Could you tell us about Greg Abbott and what your thoughts are of him as a manager?

I think the politest thing I can say is that he is good at keeping his job, but that I've never been convinced about his abilities as a manager.

Please share a high and low point from your memory of supporting Carlisle United?

High points have to be the Wembley finals, and the low points were the seasons at the end of the Knighton era.

What formation do you see Carlisle playing against us and do you generally stick to one formation?

Probably an ineffectual one.......

Will you be travelling yourself to Meadow Lane and how many times have you visited, could you tell us about it?

I won't be there this Saturday, but I have been previously and had a good meal and pint in your supporters area under the stand, chatting with some of your fans.

Who do you consider to be Notts County's danger-man and which of our players would prefer to see marked?

I'll be honest and say that I pay no attention to Association Football other than Carlisle United, so I don't know many players of other clubs. I only watch soccer on TV to be sociable with friends and family.

How many fans do you think Carlisle will bring to Meadow Lane on Saturday?

We always have a strong away following, so I would expect to see at least 400 there.

Are you looking forward to any remaining games and can you tell us why?

I'm looking forward to the last game of the season so that this "nothing of a season" is over. Hopefully we'll avoid relegation, but with Ah'but in charge.......

Where do you think your club will finished at the end of the season along with Notts County?

I think Carlisle will just avoid relegation, but hopefully Ah'but will be gone very quickly and we can look forward to a better season next year. Preferably with better and more ambitious owners, too.....

Pride of Nottingham would like to thank Dave for taking time to answer the question and SadLad for helping find a opposition fan.

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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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