Despite dominating large portions of the game, the Magpies were unable to find the back of the net, with Gillingham’s Elliott Nevitt scoring the only goal in controversial circumstances.
Maynard remained proud of his team’s performance but lamented missed opportunities, suggesting that on chances alone, Notts County should have won the game.
"I thought we were excellent all afternoon," Maynard said. "In the first half, we could be 2 or 3 up. We played some really good football and showed what we're about this season."
Notts County's first half was filled with promising chances. Jodi Jones forced a fine save, Nick Troussla and George Abbott both struck the post from close range.
Soon after, another effort found the side netting. Maynard reflected on these moments as key to the match: "We deserved to win the game on chances alone. We performed to a very high level today, but it's frustrating when things don't go your way."
Adding to the frustration was a disallowed equaliser late in the second half. Maynard was quick to highlight what he believed was a clear error by the officials.
"We've had a goal that's been disallowed that we believe, and we've seen back, is onside," he explained. The decision left the fans and players alike feeling aggrieved.
Maynard also received a yellow card for his protests over a penalty appeal that was denied. "We watched it back, and from the angle you can see on the video, it's a clear penalty," he said.
Despite these contentious decisions, Maynard remained philosophical about the outcome, stating that his team cannot rely on officials to win matches. "We can't control the officials; what we can control is making sure we go away and come back even better."
Compounding Notts County's frustrations were injuries and key absences. Alassana Jatta was ruled out due to a concussion protocol following the previous game against Bromley, and Jodi Jones was forced off late in the match after a tough challenge.
"Jodi got injured, and we didn’t have an attacking sub to bring on. But Cundie is brilliant in the air, so we put the big man up there, and he caused real problems."
Maynard also gave an update on Jatta, explaining the decision to rest him. "It’s precautionary. He felt a little dizziness after the Bromley game, and we’ve got to treat him with the right medical care."
Despite the defeat, Maynard praised his players for their mentality and determination. "I’m proud of that performance. When you go 1-0 down and are as dominant as we were, to keep going is difficult, but we’ve got a really good mentality within this group," he said.
Maynard emphasised that while missing key players like Jatta and Scott Robertson is a challenge, he believes in the depth of the squad.
The focus now turns to the upcoming EFL Trophy fixture, where Maynard hinted at squad rotation. "Every game we go into, we want to win, no matter what team we put out," he asserted.
With the possibility of fresh legs coming in, Maynard remains confident that his side can bounce back quickly.
Maynard also took a moment to credit Gillingham's defensive resilience. "They’ve come here, defended excellently, and left with a clean sheet. They’ve only conceded two goals all season for a reason," he admitted.
However, he remained confident in his team’s attacking play. "We could have scored three or four goals today. On the attacking side, I thought we were excellent."
The result may have been disappointing, but Maynard’s focus remains on the positives as Notts County look to get back to their winning ways.
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