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Jorge Grant urges for Notts County to keep feet on ground despite impressive start

Jorge Grant has admitted that Notts County’s impressive start to the season has exceeded everyone's expectations, but has stressed the importance of not letting complacency slip in.
The Magpies have cemented their hold on second place in League Two thanks to a fourth win - and clean sheet - in a row, with Crawley Town the latest side to succumb to defeat against Notts.
Grant, who scored the winner on Saturday, has echoed manager Kevin Nolan's sentiments in playing down their great form, claiming that it's important to keep getting the basics right and taking it one game at a time.
“I don’t think you ever expect it to go as well as it’s gone, but we’ve got to keep our feet on the ground,” he told the Nottingham Post.
“We’ve got to keep doing what we’ve been doing and the wins will keep coming. We’ve got to keep doing the basics right and then we are expressing ourselves in the final third.
“That’s the way you’ve got to do it, so we’re very happy at the moment.”
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Joe Jones

Glenn Morris: 'You can see why Notts County are near the top of League Two'

Crawley Town goalkeeper Glenn Morris has paid tribute to Notts County following their performance and result in their 1-0 win at Broadfield Stadium.
Jorge Grant scored the winner on Saturday, firing home from Jonathan Forte's slide pass, as the Magpies cemented their hold on second place in League Two.
Morris said Notts are well worth their high ranking in the table as they put in a solid performance on the Red Devils' patch.
He told the West Sussex County Times: “They managed the game well, we just couldn’t get our football going because they were breaking it up well, getting fouls, sticking the ball in the channels and doing the nasty side of the game.
“They’ve got some experience in their team, they’re up at the top of the league this year and you can see why.
“They’ve kept a clean sheet away from home, won 1-0 and go home happy.
“They didn’t really cut us open and I didn’t have too many saves to make, it was just one of those games where it just drifted away second half.
“It’s disappointing, but I think we’ve got to give them a little bit of credit for the way they dealt with it but we’ve got to be cuter and create some chances at home.”
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Joe Jones

Jorge Grant: 'Notts County are doing the basics right'

Jorge Grant is delighted with the way Notts County are playing at the minute, saying they're doing the basics right and taking their chances up front.
The Magpies cemented their hold on second place in League Two after claiming a fourth consecutive win - and fourth consecutive clean sheet - at Crawley Town on Saturday.
Grant scored the only goal of the game in the 1-0 win at the Broadfield Stadium and, as well as praising the team as a whole, he also feels that he is growing up as a player thanks to Kevin Nolan's input.
"I'm absolutely buzzing with the away win," he told the official Notts website. "It's perfect to keep a clean sheet and win the game 1-0.
"We're doing the basics right and then expressing ourselves in the final third so we're all really happy at the minute.
"I'm starting to grow up a little bit more and my choices on the pitch are showing that as well. I speak to the gaffer regularly and he helps me out a lot.
"You never expect it to go as well as it has but we have to keep our feet on the ground, keep doing what we have been doing and the wins will keep coming.
"We've had three games in a week and the gaffer has been able to make changes today and on Tuesday against Swindon. The depth of the squad is really good."
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Joe Jones

Match Reaction: Crawley Town 0-1 Notts County, Saturday 16 September 2017

Notts County have secured a fourth win in a row as they saw off Crawley Town by a score of 1-0 in Saturday's trip to Broadfield Stadium.
Jorge Grant was the hero once again for the Magpies as he drilled home from close range after Jonathan Forte played a low ball into the loanee's path.
The result keeps Notts second in the table and takes their unbeaten run to eight matches, ensuring yet another weekend of smiles for the Black and White Army.
Here is some of the reaction from some of the Notts players, the manager, and the Black and White Army.
Kevin Nolan
“I’m absolutely delighted. The lads have got a mentality about them now.
“They’ve come here and made sure they played the way they wanted to play and countered Crawley’s strengths. I thought we deserved the win.
“When we’re not on top form in possession, we make sure we scrap and battle. Sometimes you’ve got to put your body on the line.”
The players
 
 
 
 
 
 
The fans
TheSkipper: Solid win for Notts. Will always take the victory over the performance because we have done well before and not got what we deserved. I am 100% sure Kevin Nolan will soon get the performances spot on. What another fantastic win!
Liampie: "We can't complain about the performances when we are winning like this. Notts just seems to be a different team this season, perhaps we are finally having a bit of luck now?"
WeymouthPIE: "Not a game which was easy on the eye, but a win is a win. You don't get any extra points for playing pretty football, 3 points is 3 points. You can tell we've built that winning mentality, and we  have learnt how to dig results out. We're learning how to do jobs against the s**t in this division. These last 4 games, we probably wwould have lost 2 or 3 of them the last couple of seasons. It's early days. I'm not getting carried away, after the last few seasons I'm more than happy to enjoy the ride and see where we end up. But this is very much a team to be proud of right now. YP"
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Joe Jones

Tactical Talk: Crawley Town 0-1 Notts County, Saturday 16 September 2017

Notts County have made it four clean-sheet wins on the spin after securing a hard-earned 1-0 win over Crawley Town in Saturday's League Two encounter at the Broadfield Stadium.
Jorge Grant was the hero once again for the Magpies as he drilled home from close range after Jonathan Forte played a low ball into the loanee's path.
The result keeps Notts second in the table and takes their unbeaten run to eight matches, ensuring yet another weekend of smiles for the Black and White Army.
Here is an in-depth analysis of the game from Chris.
Was the result fair?
Both sides created several decent chances, but the whole game lacked a leading side. I think a draw would have been fairer but I’m delighted to see Kevin Nolan’s side push past a difficult performance to maintain the winning streak.
How did Notts play?
You’re watching it, even in the highlights and you're pondering what could make this Notts squad click and turn into a similar side that we saw back in 2010 – that said it doesn’t really matter, as Notts worked hard yet again and passed around nicely in spells. Defensively they looked comfortable, so not much else matters.
How did Crawley Town play?
They played as I expected and wrote in my scouting report, so quite well and very much focused on committing players forward. Their finishing was very poor, which was a good thing for us because they managed to create some cracking chances. Defensively they played much better, yet a few wobbles could have had us threaten them a little more. Crawley fans can’t be downhearted though, as they seem capable of doing well.
Did our tactics work out?
The simple answer is yes, it allowed us to hold the game but we failed to create any convincing chances – which I personally feel could have been amended at half-time - but hey, we won.
How did the referee perform?
As per usual there a few gripes, though largely he didn’t make much of an impact on the game and at League Two level it would suggest an okay performance by any match official.
Who do we play next?
Lincoln City – a local derby which has already seen a good amount of tickets sold for the away end at Meadow Lane. The game should be lively, though on a personal note I am hoping for a result similar to the Chesterfield game.
How should we play them?
Defensively if Notts play as we have been we should be okay, I’d like to see Notts build from the back – as this would increase the confidence and provided our defenders a chance to get a proper feel for the game.
There’s no doubt in my mind that we must be patient, yet careful at the same time.
I actually feel Chesterfield would have been the harder game, yet as this one leads into Mansfield – I think it’s vital that we get the best possible result. So, for Notts it’s about building clear chances and maintaining that steady work-rate we have seen.
Regarding changes there’s not much I feel Kevin Nolan should do, leave the line-up without making several changes and just monitor how the game pans out as it happens.
Lincoln can’t be written off, yet I think if we assert the right amount of control from the off – the game will be easier to manage and that Notts will create good enough chances to get the points at Meadow Lane.
Crawley fan views (from the CTFC Fans Forum)
Hampshire Guest: "Total trash. We didn't look like scoring no threat up front at all and usual blunder at the back. It was like watching a games under Yates era. No enjoyment or entertainment what so everybody." (sic)
Hickmottsenior: "We did ok to contain them in the first half but in the second we didn't get a look in and looked utterly clueless. Not having a striker is costing us. I think we had a fair shout for a penalty though. As above, this was like traveling back in time to any of the previous few seasons. Crap. I think it's made my mind up about (not) going to Barnet."
AlexBH: "Absolutely woeful display in the end. First half was OK, we competed, but didn't threaten. Second half we give a silly goal with another mistake at the back and from then onwards we lost of shape and looked completely desperate. The tactics were awful! Play out from back, no recognised midfielder for the last 15 minutes except smith with 5 attacking players on the pitch. It was schoolboy stuff, lump it up there and then Notts county won all the second balls as we had no midfield to speak of except Smith. Truly woeful showing. I can't remember us having a single shot on target all game. What on earth Harry was trying to achieve with the players out there I don't know. We looked OK first half with Bulman, Smith and Payne in there. Then he goes and takes off Payne and Bulman and we completely lost our shape. We looked desperate and clueless. Harry has got to learn that this playing out from the back doesn't work especially when you don't have midfielders showing for the ball. I thought after some good results against Swindon and Yeovil he was beginning to realise this. Instead we seem to be going backwards."
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Chris

Match highlights: Crawley Town 0-1 Notts County, Saturday 16 September 2017

Notts County have made it four clean-sheet wins on the spin after securing a hard-earned 1-0 win over Crawley Town in Saturday's League Two encounter at the Broadfield Stadium.
Jorge Grant was the hero once again for the Magpies as he drilled home from close range after Jonathan Forte played a low ball into the loanee's path.
The result keeps Notts second in the table and takes their unbeaten run to eight matches, ensuring yet another weekend of smiles for the Black and White Army.
Notts have uploaded the match highlights to their YouTube channel - we have shared it on here so you can relive yet another superb win for Kevin Nolan's boys!
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Joe Jones

Notts Alumni: Gary Lund

A key member of the Notts County side that enjoyed a swift climb to the top flight of English football, Gary Lund was born on 13 September 1964 in Cleethorpes.
He began his career at local club Grimsby Town and made his debut in September 1983, shortly after his 19th birthday, against Barnsley.
Reminiscing about his debut, the forward  told independent GTFC site The Fishy: "I replaced the injured Kevin Drinkell (I think) and came close to scoring when I hit the bar. I was substituted with about 20 mins to go. I suppose it was an average success!"
Lund made 60 appearances in total for the Mariners, with a good return rate of 24 goals in that time, including two hat-tricks, against Sheffield United and, ironically, Notts.
In 1986, after three years in the Grimsby senior setup, he upped sticks and moved to Lincoln City, where he spent one season, playing 44 games and scoring 13 goals.
Then came his stint at Meadow Lane, joining in the pre-season of 1987-88, one of many changes at the club with Derek Pavis coming on board and John Barnwell taking over the first-team reins from the retired Jimmy Sirrel.
In his first season at Notts, he scored 20 goals in Division Three, plus one in the Associate Members' Cup, as the Magpies finished fourth and secured a playoff place, only to succumb in the semi-finals to Walsall.
The 1988-89 season was less remarkable for both Notts and Lund, who scored just eight goals all season as the Magpies finished ninth in the division, but with Neil Warnock taking over in January, things were about to get very exciting for the club.
Lund broke into double figures again as Notts finished third in the third division, before navigating the playoffs and securing a place in the second tier.
The following season, Lund became more of a rotational player as Dave Regis joined in September, making 16 appearances and only scored five goals all season, though one of these was the 89th-minute winner against Manchester City in the fifth round of the FA Cup.
That year, Notts secured back-to-back promotions after finishing fourth and once again enjoying a successful stab at the playoffs.
With Notts now a top-flight side, Lund found himself on the fringes of the first team, making just 13 appearances (10 starts, 3 subs) as the strike force was repeatedly chopped and changed, sadly to no avail as the Magpies slipped back into the second tier.
Lund made more appearances in 1992-93 as Notts struggled to re-adapt to life in the new Division One, finishing 17th, and also had a loan stint at Hull City.
When Warnock was sacked and Mick Walker was brought in, Lund eventually found himself back in top form, with 1993-94 yielding 12 goals in the league and a further seven in cup competitions, of which five came in the Anglo-Italian Cup on the way to the final.
When asked about the best manager he worked under, Lund told The Fishy: "Mick Walker at Notts. He was only manager for a short time but we played some wonderful football in his time and only just missed out on the first division playoffs."
The following season proved very bittersweet for Notts as they won the Anglo-Italian Cup but were relegated from Division One. It proved to be Lund's last season at Notts as he then joined Chesterfield, where he remained until 1997, when he hung up his boots.
A loyal servant at Notts who made close to 250 appearances, Gary Lund will always be remembered fondly by the Black and White Army.
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Joe Jones

Kevin Nolan delighted with Notts County players' mentality

Kevin Nolan has praised Notts County's mentality in claiming a fourth win on the bounce against Crawley Town on Saturday.
Jorge Grant bagged the winner from Jonathan Forte's cross-shot at the Broadfield Stadium to leave the Magpies in rude health at the top of League Two.
The Notts gaffer told the official site following the 1-0 win: “I’m absolutely delighted. The lads have got a mentality about them now.
“They’ve come here and made sure they played the way they wanted to play and countered Crawley’s strengths. I thought we deserved the win.
“When we’re not on top form in possession, we make sure we scrap and battle. Sometimes you’ve got to put your body on the line.”
“There’s more to come from these lads. Their confidence will grow and they’re learning every day.
“I feel we’re going to continue to get better if we can keep working the way we have.
“The attitude and application was absolutely fantastic today and that’s why we’ve won the game.”
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Joe Jones

Match Report: Notts County winning run continues with victory at Crawley Town

Notts County's season continues to go from strength to strength as their unbeaten run now stretches to eight games, not to mention a four-match winning streak in League Two and four clean sheets in a row.
The latest team to fall victim to the Magpies' continued renaissance is Crawley Town, with Kevin Nolan taking his team to the Broadfield Stadium and leaving with a 1-0 win.
Notts weighed in with an effort on target after just two minutes when Jon Stead's low angled shot was held by Red Devils goalkeeper Glenn Morris.
There was little to shout about for most of the remainder of the first half, however, save for Enzio Boldewijn firing across goal and Jimmy Smith blasting over from a well worked free kick.
Just before the break, Lewis Alessandra fired wide from close range at the second attempt after his initial one was blocked, Dan Jones causing havoc with his cross in the box.
Into the second half and Notts took the lead in the 54th minute when the prodigal Jorge Grant stabbed the ball into the net after Jonathan Forte played the ball into the loanee's path.
The visitors could have been further ahead as Matt Tootle saw his effort saved from 25 yards and in the final minute Forte lobbed wide of the goal from 40 yards.
Harry Kewell's side did not muster a single shot on target as County saw the game out to remain high up in the League Two table.
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Joe Jones

Richard Duffy happy to see Notts County boast a mean defence

Richard Duffy is happy for Notts County to be known and established as a side with a solid, watertight defence as he aims to lead the team to an eighth unbeaten game in all competitions today.
The Magpies have kept four clean sheets in seven games, virtually overturning the calamity that was Coventry City away, to set up a League Two clash at Crawley Town this afternoon from the dizzying heights of second in the table.
Duffy, this season's skipper for Notts, also praises his defensive partnership with centre-back teammate Shaun Brisley, and is happy enough with his tenure as captain so far.
In an interview with the Nottingham Post, Duffy said: “I’ve really enjoyed [working with Brisley], obviously the results make it a lot better. I think we work well on the pitch, we talk to each other and off the pitch we talk quite a bit in training.
“We’re learning each other’s games, what’s the strengths and what we’re not so good at and we can cover each other on those things. I’m really enjoying playing (with him).”
“The first game of the season was disappointing but we’ve bounced back really well since then.
"It wasn’t great; we were way off the mark on the first day which was disappointing. The previous six games we’ve put that to bed and shown what we can really do.
“I think we’re solid, we’re compact and defending well as a team and we’re attacking as a team. Everything we do, there’s no individuals out there. The work we’re doing on the training ground is really paying off.
“I feel as though I’ve done alright [as captain]. Four clean sheets in seven games says it all really for the whole team, especially the back-four and the goalkeeper. That’s what we try to pride ourselves on, clean sheets and keeping the ball out of our net.
“We’ve got to keep working hard and not get too far ahead of ourselves. After the first day, if you’d have said we’ve have won five and drawn one, most people would have snapped your hand off. It’s been really good.
“The club has a bit of stability at the minute, and we’ve got to get that on the pitch and get as many points as early as we can and see where we go from there. We’re definitely solid, I’ll take solid all day long as we win games.”
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Joe Jones

Scouting Report: Crawley Town (A), 16 September 2017

This weekend, Notts County head to the Broadfield Stadium to face Crawley Town in League Two.
The Magpies have a chance to make it eight games unbeaten in all competition should they get a result against Harry Kewell's side.
History
Notts County have only ever played Crawley Town 10 times in their history.
The first fixture between the two was just under five years ago, on 10 November 2012.
This milestone first meeting between the two, played at Meadow Lane, finished 1-1.
Meanwhile the return fixture, played away on the 9th March 2013, ended as a goalless draw.
The record stands at six Notts wins, two defeats and two draws.
Our recent record against them is very good, the Magpies winning the last four encounters (all in League Two) and six of the last seven.
The last fixture took place on 28 January this year at Meadow Lane, a 2-1 win with Thierry Audel and Jonathan Forte grabbing the goals for us.
Run-down of their last 5 fixtures
Saturday 19th August – Crawley Town 0 Cambridge United 1
Saturday 26th August – Swindon Town 0 Crawley Town 3
Saturday 2nd September – Crawley Town 2 Yeovil Town 0
Saturday 9th September – Colchester United 3 Crawley Town 1
Tuesday 12th September – Stevenage 1 Crawley Town 1
The Players – Fact Sheet
Highest Goal Scorers: Jordan Roberts 3, Jimmy Smith 2, Enzio Boldewijn 1 and Ibrahim Meite 1.
Persistent Foulers: Josh Payne 3 yellow cards, Jordan Roberts 2 yellow cards, Mark Randall 1 yellow cards and Dean Cox 1 yellow cards.
The Key Players
Out wide Dennon Lewis can be very influential when going forward, the 20-year-old winger can also offer Crawley Town a lot of pace and direct movement – which can be tricky.
The youngster, who is out on loan from Watford, can also switch flanks and likes to drift into the middle where he tends to get more chances on goal.
Jordan Roberts is another player that likes to get time on the ball, and can take a shot from range which is usually not far from the target.
Whilst Enzio Boldwijn and Ibrahim Meite offer Crawley Town a lot of options upfront, as the versatile strikers tend to move around – offering them support out-wide when needed.
They both also have a fair bit of pace and like to run directly at the opposition defence.
Style of Play, Strengths, and Weaknesses
Crawley Town largely mix between hoofing the ball, and trying to play the ball on the ground – with more focus on attacking through the centre of the park.
They tend to commit players when going forward, whilst they resort to having shots at goal largely from distance.
The Devils are an able side capable of moving the ball nicely around, however they do appear to have limitations on how best to use their momentum.
From a defensive point of view, they leave a vulnerability at the back when they commit players forward and they struggle to re-group when hit on the counter.
Their position play going forward can be very good, yet at the back its very dubious to say the least and as a result they look very weak when coping with attacking minded teams.
Notts will have to try to create chances whereby they can get behind their defenders, as Crawley like to keep the play in front of them.
Jorge Grant should be able to find more time on the ball against these, so he will be key to unlocking play and pushing Notts forward.
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Chris

Stat Attack: Crawley Town vs. Notts County, Saturday 16 September 2017

Notts County have only ever played Crawley Town 10 times in their history.
The first fixture between the two was just under five years ago, on 10 November 2012.
This milestone first meeting between the two, played at Meadow Lane, finished 1-1.
Meanwhile the return fixture, played away on the 9th March 2013, ended as a goalless draw.
The record stands at six Notts wins, two defeats and two draws.
Our recent record against them is very good, the Magpies winning the last four encounters (all in League Two) and six of the last seven.
The last fixture took place on 28 January this year at Meadow Lane, a 2-1 win with Thierry Audel and Jonathan Forte grabbing the goals for us.
Crawley Town have been a non-league side for the majority of their history – last decade, while Notts were struggling to survive in the old Second Division, Crawley had just been promoted from the Southern Football League.
Crawley have won plenty of silverware in their history, though the majority of it is amateur-based. This changed when they won the Conference National title in 2011 and the League Two title just a year later.
2010-11 was a record-breaking season not just for Crawley, but also for the Conference.
The West Sussex club broke the points total in one season (105) and tie with other teams for most wins in one season (31), fewest defeats (3), and highest goal difference (+63).
Because of this season, alongside the funds they had to buy players and an unlikeable manager (Steve Evans), they were known as “the Manchester United of non-league football”.
The town of Crawley is known for being close - just three miles in fact - to Gatwick Airport, the world's busiest single-runway international airport.
Famous people who have links to Crawley include Australian footballer Kevin Muscat (born in Crawley), Gareth Southgate (attended the town's Hazelwick School), English rock band The Cure (formed in Crawley, several of its members attended St Wilfrid's RC School) and Gorillaz lead singer 2D (a fictional character, his back story claims he grew up in the town).
Team news
Crawley boss Harry Kewell has no new injury worries ahead of tomorrow's game.
Striker Thomas Verheydt, who has not featured since the end of last month, is the only unavailable player due to a knee injury.
Midfielder Jordan Roberts is fit to play after missing the last two games because of a minor injury.
On-loan Cardiff forward Ibrahim Meite will hope to retain his place in attack after scoring his first senior goal in the midweek draw at Stevenage.
Shola Ameobi is a significant absentee for Notts County's trip, as he had to go off with a hamstring injury in the first half of the Magpies' victory over Morecambe last weekend.
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Joe Jones

Harry Kewell expecting aggressive, entertaining game between Notts and Crawley

Crawley Town boss Harry Kewell is expecting an aggressive and entertaining game between his side and Notts County tomorrow.
The Magpies travel to the Broadfield Stadium at the weekend with the chance of making it eight games unbeaten in all competitions.
Kewell knows Nolan well, having faced him in the Premier League in the 2000s, and is relishing the chance to take him on from the dugout this time.
"It's sure to be an aggressive game, but an entertaining one as well," the Australian told the official Crawley website.
"I'm sure as fellow former players who've played against each other, we'll both know what we're going to bring with our respective sides.
"It'll be tough, they're on a good run, but we've already shown this season we can rise to challenges and tough opposition.
"This weekend is no different, we approach every game in the same way."
Nolan, meanwhile, spoke fondly of Kewell and says he will be looking forward to renewing acquaintances with him on Saturday.
“They (Crawley) made an appointment in the summer which I think probably shocked everybody, in the respect that I didn’t think Harry Kewell would want to go down that route,” Nolan told the Nottingham Post.
“But it’s fantastic. It’s nice that people are trying to break the mould and realising that to try to get better, you’ve got to come to League Two to try to prove yourself. Hats off to him.
“He was one of the big names in the Premier League. I think the last time I saw him, he was winning a Champions League medal in Istanbul. I was actually with the fans and he was obviously on the pitch with the trophy!
“It will be nice to catch up with him and Warren (Feeney, assistant head coach), who was manager of Newport when I was at Accrington. It will be nice to say hello and have a beer with them afterwards.”
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Joe Jones

Opposition View: Crawley Town (A), Saturday 16 September 2017

Notts County continue to go from strength to strength, unbeaten in seven games in all competitions and sitting second in the League Two table.
Up next for the Pies is a trip to Broadfield Stadium, where Crawley Town await.
Pride of Nottingham spoke to Red Devils fan Jordan Knott (@JordyTekkers) to get an insight on the opposition.
About Jordan: I'm 21 years old and have been a Crawley Town fan since 2002, when my dad took me to my first game at the age of 6. My all time favourite player is Matt Tubbs.
Crawley are relatively new in the Football League - how do you make of your time in the EFL so far?
I would say our time in the EFL so far has been quite successful for a club of our size. Back to back to promotions to League One in 2012, after finishing 3rd in League Two, and reaching the 5th round of the FA Cup for the second season running, losing out to Stoke City.  In our first ever season in League One we finished 10th under the guidance of then manager Richie Barker. He then departed the following season, with John Gregory replacing him in December 2013. We ended the 2013-14 season in 14th place. During the summer of 2014 is when things started to go down hill. Gregory had a complete overhaul of the playing squad, getting rid of many fans favourites including Sergio Torres, Dannie Bulman and Kyle McFadzean, partly due to lack of funds from the club. The 2014-15 squad was unrecognisable, with only a handful of players remaining from the previous season. Subsequently we were relegated back to League Two that season, along with Notts County. Dean Saunders had taken over as interim manager in December 2014, and did his best to try and keep the club up. There were signs of improvement under Dean Saunders, but unfortunately it wasn't too be, losing out to Coventry City on the final day in May 2015. In our first season back in League Two we finished 20th under manager Mark Yates, our lowest finish since joining the EFL. We had a new owner take over the club in March 2016, Turkish businessman Ziya Eren. Yates departed in April 2016 with a few games of the season left. Former Chelsea and Arsenal youth coach Dermot Drummy replaced him, taking charge of the final few games. Last season we finished 19th under Drummy, a much improved squad from the previous season with the arrival of James Collins, Dean Cox, Enzio Boldewijn and the returning fans favourite Mark Connolly from Kilmarnock. However it was again a disappointing season with the team only just staying up. Hopefully there are better things to come this season.
Steve Evans made his name at Crawley. A rather divisive character, what do you make of him?
Steve Evans is a manager who is a lot like Marmite, you either like him or loathe him. If you've ever read former Crawley and Hereford United midfielder Ben Smith's book Journeyman, then you'll see exactly what Steve Evans was like to play under. A very much Jekyll and Hyde like character in the dressing room. Personally I like Steve Evans, and we played some of our best football under him. In August 2006 the club came within an hour of liquidation, but luckily we survived. Steve took over in May 2007, and we had 6 points docked before the start of the season due to our finances, so not the easiest of starts for him. We finished 15th that season, despite the off field problems and points deduction. The 2010-11 was our best season under Evans, promotion from the then Blue Square Premier to the EFL, and a 5th round FA Cup tie with Manchester United at Old Trafford.  Steve departed us for Rotherham United in April 2012, and was very successful there, having got them from League Two to the Championship in a few seasons.
Striker James Collins left in the summer - how big a loss is he?
The departure of James Collins in the summer to Luton Town was a big one for us. Without his 22 goals last season then we would without doubt have been relegated. Our last player to score that many was Izale McLeod, who we sold to Notts County in 2015. Whenever Crawley find themselves a prolific goal scorer, we find it very difficult to keep hold of them. Unfortunately we haven't been able to bring in a striker of James' quality this season. We have signed 3 new strikers, including Panutche Camara from Non-League Dulwich Hamlet, Thomas Verheydt from MVV Maastricht, and Ibrahim Meite on loan from Cardiff City. So only time will tell if they can fill James' shooting boots.
Harry Kewell is a well-known name in English football - how did fans view his appointment?
Harry Kewell's appointment was received with mixed opinions from fans. The fans were hoping for an experienced manager who knows the lower leagues. After appointing Dermot Drummy, a head coach with no lower league managerial experience last season, fans were sceptical with the appointment of Kewell. Having been sacked as Watfrord under 21s head coach in April 2017, and having no football league managerial experience, it did seem a strange one. Without doubt Kewell's playing CV is up there with the best, but his lack of experience as a manger does have to be questioned. He brought in former Plymouth Argyle forward Warren Feeney as his assistant, as the two played together at Leeds United. Warren has got lower league experience having been manager at Newport County in 2016. We have got off to a mixed start under Kewell so far, inconsistency being the main problem for us. When we play well, we play really well, but when we're poor, we look like a team that hasn't played together before. It seems to the second half of a match that we actually start playing, so hopefully we address this problem sooner rather than later. However it is still early days, so hopefully we can get back to winning ways and kick off from there.
Who are Crawley's danger men in the current squad?
Our main danger man is Jordan Roberts, who we signed from Inverness Caledonian Thistle last season. He's missed the last few games with injury but he's back for selection to face Notts County. Predominantly a midfielder, he's been playing up front so far this season and is our top goal scorer with 3 goals. Ibrahim Meite who scored his first Crawley goal at Stevenage the other night looks to be a really handful as well. Our captain Jimmy Smith will be one to look out for too, his return from injury coincided with our first two league wins of the season against Swindon Town and Yeovil Town respectively.
Score/scorer predictions
Notts County are doing well so far under Kevin Nolan this season. They have got a very experienced squad and look like a tough opposition. Notts County have got the better head to head results, and we have struggled against them in recent seasons. However, I believe we can take positives from our draw at Stevenage the other night, so I think the score will be Crawley 1-1 Notts, Meite getting his second Crawley goal.
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Chris

Kevin Nolan to reassess Notts County goals after safety is achieved

Kevin Nolan has urged again for perspective at Notts County, reiterating the need to take each game as it comes and secure safety before reassessing the objectives for the season.
The Magpies could make it eight games unbeaten in all competitions if they get a result away at Crawley Town on Saturday, with the Magpies sitting second in League Two.
Despite talk among fans shifting towards promotion, Nolan insists that it's too early in the season to look ahead all the way to next May when the league reaches its decisive fixtures.
He told the Nottingham Post: “When I did my initial interview with Alan, it was saying we need to sustain our league status, then it was about making sure we sustained it again this year but with more ease and not a topsy turvy season. Then it was a three to five-year plan to get us out this league and sustain ourselves in League One to then start looking for Championship football.
“We haven’t really now set our goals. I think it’s been a bit different from where we were at the end of January – although probably after the first game of the season (a 3-0 defeat at Coventry City) we were back to where we were in January!
“Now, there’s a lot of positivity. There’s a lot of people shouting, ‘yes, we can do this and we can do that’. But I think it’s really key that we remain grounded and at a medium, happy level.
“We’ve got to make sure from the start we’ve had that we finish in the top half of the table, because that would be success for this club after a number of years being in the doldrums of this league – where you’re fearful of relegation.
“We’ve got to get to safety as quickly as possible. If we do that, then we can reassess what we’re going to do this season.
“We can’t start getting carried away, saying ‘we’re going to win it, we’re going to get promoted’. We’ve got to have realistic aims and realistic ambitions.
“It’s a club in transition and sometimes if you go a bit too quick, and go too soon, that can bite you in the bum. We’ve got to make sure we get it right.
“We’re in a very good place at this moment in time, and everyone who’s connected with Notts County Football Club should be thankful for that.”
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Joe Jones

Kevin Nolan plays down Shola Ameobi injury

Kevin Nolan has played down Shola Ameobi's hamstring injury, suggesting that he will not be out of action for too long.
The veteran striker was forced off in Notts County's win over Morecambe last weekend and was unavailable for the midweek win over Swindon Town.
Ameobi is not expected to play any part in the Magpies' trip to Crawley tomorrow, but Nolan insists his backroom team will take good care of him and should be able to establish a recovery timeline in the next few days.
“We’re just taking it daily. It’s going to take a bit of time,” Nolan told the Nottingham Post.
“It’s his hamstring. We thought it was maybe an overstretch, but when we looked at the video, and when the medical staff looked at the video, it seemed it was more what a sprinter would get in the way he hyper-extended his leg.
“They are really confident that he won’t be out for too long. I’ve got a wonderful backroom staff who work tirelessly day in, day out, so I’m sure they’re giving him (Ameobi) the best treatment at the minute.
“Knowing Shola, it won’t be too long until we see him back on the pitch.
“Hopefully I’ll be able to give you a timeline in the next few days, certainly after the weekend. But at the minute, we’re just taking it daily because we haven’t really scanned it yet because we wanted to let it settle down.”
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Joe Jones

Chris: 'Amazing to see so much positivity at Notts County'

One striking difference I have noticed during the 2017-18 League Two season for Notts is that Kevin Nolan has delivered on his words.
He has his side playing for the shirt, he’s tightened up the defence and made each player accountable on the pitch. It’s hard to imagine Notts playing like they did last season, especially under John Sheridan.
When you think about changing the philosophy a team plays, you wouldn’t expect the changes to be made so quickly – yet it was visible upon the appointment of Nolan that we have someone unlike the previous managers at Meadow Lane.
Whilst I would like to point out that it’s early days, I know enough fans who have warned me about the ‘Shaun Derry’ effect – but I do believe the club is moving in a clear direction, in fact I would say from the board down we are finally a club moving together.
The positivity around Meadow Lane is a joy right now, I have noticed fans who had stopped attending games due to the frustration (and various other reasons) are now back.
Home games are just another level, and although at times the Kop could be louder and the players could perform a little better – the fact we are grinding results out is such a positive thing right now. The stability level at Notts is at a new high, and this is something I hope will continue for a long time.
In previous articles, I have mentioned concerns which I do feel are starting to be addressed.
I’m pleased for Jonathan Forte and Rob Milsom who played well against Swindon Town – in a game where more than a few fans questioned the decision by Kevin Nolan to change five starting players.
I actually think Carl Dickinson picked up during the game and played well, although he looked like he was desperately needing match time early on (as he looked a little rusty). This demonstrates the availability we have within the squad, although I do agree there are areas which can be approved – this can happen come January.
I’ve always said it’s important for Notts County to send a signal of intent, not solely from the players that are signed but from the way we operate business on and off the field.
I feel it’s important for all players to feel respected, and settled within their squad duties. This starts from the board, yet it continues within the management and team dressing room. This is why I feel the contract talks between Alan Hardy and Nolan over the latter's future is pivotal to the success we may see this season.
Having the players see him secure a new contract on the merit of the work already achieved is such a huge reward, it sends the most positive message out of Meadow Lane and it’s a signal of intent that the football club is moving forwards.
Previous seasons I have been nervous seeing players’ contracts dwindle down, whether this was down to not knowing what the following season's budget was, debt, or simply a case of the players being unsure over their futures.
The foundations outlined by the managerial team is a big part of any club's success, I know this is football basics but for our club it seems to have been lost within the recent years.
So, it’s just good to see the positivity right now. I firmly believe the team performances will improve further, it will just take that moment for things to click on the pitch – hopefully between our strikers we have enough to continue.
Yet the goals are coming from all over the pitch, and one area I would love to see Notts score from is a corner – it seems like ages ago since we have done.
Though whilst it is early days, we must continue with our support and try to make Meadow Lane as lively as possible – after Jon Stead scored against Swindon Town I honestly feel the Kop shown its potential and this must create a buzz for the players.
I’m just very keen to see the work-rate continue, and would actively encourage Kevin Nolan to pen his contract – as I feel he can take the club much further than from the foot of the League Two table to where we currently stand.
You Pies!
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Chris

Notts County boss Kevin Nolan reveals "ruckus" with Rob Milsom

Kevin Nolan has revealed that a "ruckus" took place between himself and Rob Milsom over the midfielder becoming sloppy in training.
The current Notts County Player of the Year made his first League Two start of the season as the Magpies beat Swindon 1-0 at Meadow Lane in midweek.
Nolan has already spoken numerous times of a "frank discussion" with striker Jonathan Forte, and now he has revealed that something similar took place with Milsom.
“Milly was unfortunate to miss five to 10 days of pre-season with a stiff neck and we brought in a couple of midfielders in in that time,” he told the Nottingham Post.
“It wasn’t really difficult to keep him happy. He’s just had to wait for his chance.
“We had a bit of ruckus a few weeks ago when I felt he was becoming sloppy in his training.
“It showed in a game when we put him on. I feel he’s now training with the intensity and quality that made him player of the year.
“It’s only a matter of time before he gets his run. He got his first game (on Tuesday). He’s made my job a lot harder.”
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Joe Jones

League Two news roundup: 7-14 September 2017

Here is Pride of Nottingham's roundup of all the biggest news stories from League Two over the last week.
- Barnet striker David Tarpey looks set to miss the rest of the season after the summer arrival suffered damage to his anterior cruciate ligament in the club's 3-1 victory over Cambridge United (Swindon Advertiser)
- Coventry City midfielder Tony Andreu has been ruled out for the season with a serious knee injury. The 29-year-old summer signing was injured against Port Vale on Saturday and has been diagnosed with a tear to his anterior cruciate ligament, leaving him out for a minimum of nine months (Swindon Advertiser)
- Cheltenham Town defender Jamie Kilkenny has been told to find a new club after being released for ‘non-footballing reasons’. The teenager, had been playing for the Under-18s and took part in pre-season, but after 10 years at the club, has been told not to come back by Gary Johnson (Swindon Advertiser)
- Lincoln City manager Danny Cowley has accused Forest Green goalkeeper Bradley Collins of spitting at defender Sean Raggett late on in Tuesday's League Two match, which the Imps won 1-0 (BBC Sport)
- Swindon Town announced the full-time appointment of Lee Peacock as the Academy's new Head of Coaching. The former attacker made 138 outings for the Robins between 2006 and 2010 (Swindon Town FC)
- Yeovil Town goalkeeping coach Sam Shulberg has left the club and has been replaced by former Bristol City and Bristol Rovers keeper Steve Phillips, who is described as joining the Glovers on an 'interim' basis (Ciderspace)
- Manchester United have agreed a deal to sign 15-year-old midfielder Charlie McCann from Coventry City's academy (Coventry Telegraph)
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Joe Jones

Tactical Talk: Notts County 1-0 Swindon Town, Tuesday 12 September 2017

Notts County have climbed to second in League Two following a solid 1-0 win over Swindon Town in Tuesday night's clash at Meadow Lane.
Jon Stead's penalty just after the half-hour mark, after he was bundled over in the box by Olly Lancashire, was enough to secure the points for Kevin Nolan's charges.
The result also sees the Magpies notch up a seventh unbeaten game in all competitions, which has resulted in an incredible vibe among the Black and White Army.
Here is Chris's tactical analysis of the game.
Was the result fair?
Swindon Town fans might feel they deserved at least a draw from last night’s game at Meadow Lane, however a determined Notts County succeeded and for me warrant the win due to sheer hard-work from a very respectable performance.
How did Notts play?
Notts played like the underdogs in an F.A cup tie, however at times they fully took the game to the Robins who struggled to adapt to the changes made by Kevin Nolan. Whilst there was a lack of goal chances, with only two shots being recorded as on target for the Magpies – this doesn’t reflect the full picture and it was a very solid performance which can only be improved on.
How did Swindon play?
As I mentioned within the PON forum, and within my ‘Scouting Report’ – Swindon Town tried to make the most of the flanks. They used their pace and threw everything they had at Notts, despite several fans telling me they were poor. I felt entertained by them and I think they overthought their tactics, but in truth they played quite well and forced Adam Collin to be at his best.
Did our tactics work out?
Absolutely! Whilst the majority of fans seemed to believe the changes were nothing more than an effort by Kevin Nolan to save certain players legs for Saturday’s clash against Crawley – for me I could see that it was more about controlling the game and combating the obvious way that Swindon Town play.
I felt it was solely to inject pace into our team at a time when Swindon Town would be fading from trying to overpower us on the pitch.
The tactics were absolutely spot on, and it shows that Kevin Nolan does have more than a plan A.
How did the referee perform?
I felt the referee was better than most we had in recent weeks, however at times it was clear that he had lost control and even went as far as deciding favourably to whoever made the most fuss (which was usually a group of Swindon Town players).
There were some key moments, such as their number 7 tripping one of our players which was totally missed and a kick to Jorge Grant which for me warranted at least a card.  
Who do we play next?
Crawley Town – this will be a totally different game for Notts. Crawley are a side capable of playing very well on their day, they can be physical but generally play in the right way.
How should we play them?
For Notts they need to apply common-sense, use bulk in midfield to control the flow of the game. Again for me Rob Milsom will be key, as will a fresh Jorge Grant.
I would revert back to having Dan Jones at left back, however Matt Tootle should retain his position – the defence must deal with Crawley promptly but in a way which doesn’t rush the play, so it’s vital that the ball is played on the ground when possible.
Hopefully Shola Ameobi will be fit, we really missed his presence yesterday but I would like to see him start with Jonathan Forte at the cost of Jon Stead.
We need to bide our time, create chances which can be avoided from rushing – with it being vital to not make whoever is upfront not chase everything. Notts generally struggle to get the ball on target, so fewer chances will come if we don’t adjust.
Swindon fan views (from Thetownend.com)
Stevens: "I made my views early that I did not like this managers way of playing football. We have gone from a side who plays young potential good footballers who were badly handled to a load of old farts past there sell by date and a few loanees playing typical division two football. Thank goodness I missed tonight and will be out of the country for the next month so I don't have to go and watch."
Donkey: "Ok, just before I turn in for the night, I'm going to try to be positive. I liked Norris, worked hard, won a lot of headers, put a shift in. Vigs made a cracking save and held the crosses he came for. Also, I had a genuine fear that we'd slide through this division (Vale are bottom), but I believe this team have enough about them to be mid table. They should halt the decline. At the end of last season, I'd have taken that."
London Pride: "Just got back after an overnight stay and have to say I am somewhat surprised by Flitcroft summary of the game I can only assume he was at another match. It was 100% a penalty as all us could quite clearly see from where we were sat. I have watched every game this year home and away and my confidence in us getting promoted at the first attempt has started to fade. We are clearly not a very good side with some very average players and a manager whose tactics are extremely questionable. The mindless aimless hoof ball that was on display last night which is seeming to become the norm is extremely embarrassing to watch. The only way that we will ever make the playoffs this season is if there are 18 other teams more crap than us."
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Chris

Meet the Fans: Notts County 1-0 Swindon Town, Tuesday 12 September 2017

Notts County have made it seven matches unbeaten in all competitions thanks to victory over Swindon Town on Tuesday night.
The Robins came to Meadow Lane hoping to extend their superb away record in League Two, but luckily - for us - it wasn't to be.
Arguably the toughest opponent on paper for Notts so far this season since Coventry City, Kevin Nolan's charges were well drilled and well organised.
The winner came midway through the first half as Olly Lancashire conceded a penalty, which Jon Stead duly rattled home.
County's win puts them second in the League Two table and ensures that the Black and White Army is on a great wavelength as autumn rolls in.
Pride of Nottingham spoke to a number of Notts County fans and asked them a few questions ahead of the game, including whether Jonathan Forte has anything left to prove to Kevin Nolan, which player has exceeded their expectations the most, and of course the score prediction.
Share your thoughts about this week's Meet the Fans on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans.
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Chris

Faces of PON: Notts County vs. Swindon Town, Tuesday 12 September 2017

Notts County have made it seven matches unbeaten in all competitions thanks to a 1-0 victory over Swindon Town on Tuesday night.
The Robins came to Meadow Lane hoping to extend their superb away record in League Two, but luckily - for us - it wasn't to be.
Arguably the toughest opponent on paper for Notts so far this season since Coventry City, Kevin Nolan's charges were well drilled and well organised.
The winner came midway through the first half as Olly Lancashire conceded a penalty, which Jon Stead duly rattled home.
County's win puts them second in the League Two table and ensures that the Black and White Army is on a great wavelength as autumn rolls in.
Pride of Nottingham was at Meadow Lane for the game, speaking to fans and taking pictures.
Check out our midweek Faces of PON and see if you're in any of our snaps!

Share your thoughts about this week's Faces of PON on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans.
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Chris

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