By PON_News
The Magpies battled to a hard-fought 2-2 draw against Chesterfield in a tense local derby at the SMH Group Stadium.
This clash lived up to its billing, with drama, intensity, and a late equaliser for the travelling Notts County fans to celebrate.
The game started at a blistering pace, with Chesterfield breaking the deadlock just six minutes in. Paddy Madden struck for the Spireites, guiding a right-footed shot from close range into the bottom right corner, following a setup by Dilan Markanday.
The early goal set the tone for a lively encounter, with Chesterfield looking to build on their early advantage.
Notts County, however, were quick to respond, finding their equaliser in the 14th minute. Alassana Jatta, a constant threat in the air, nodded home from close range, directing George Abbott's well-placed cross into the bottom right corner.
The goal brought the game level and sparked a period of dominance for the Magpies, as they looked to take control with 55.7% possession by the final whistle.
The first half was a physical affair, with both sides creating chances but unable to find the net again before the break.
Despite Chesterfield’s threats, Notts goalkeeper Alex Bass held firm, saving efforts from Armando Dobra and Michael Jacobs. The Magpies, meanwhile, had their own opportunities, with Dan Crowley and Sam Austin testing the Spireites' defence and keeper Max Thompson.
The second half continued the end-to-end action, with Chesterfield edging ahead once more in the 74th minute.
Substitute Will Grigg connected with Tom Naylor’s corner delivery, heading in from close range to give the Spireites a 2-1 lead. Grigg’s goal seemed to rattle Notts County, but they regrouped and pressed for an equaliser.
Late drama ensued as the clock ticked into added time. Notts were handed a golden opportunity when Liam Mandeville conceded a penalty for handball. David McGoldrick stepped up, but Thompson made an excellent save, pushing McGoldrick’s effort away from the bottom left corner.
However, just moments later, McGoldrick redeemed himself, slotting home from close range following a chaotic set-piece to level the match at 2-2 in the fourth minute of added time.
The final moments saw both teams pushing for a winner, with Mandeville’s long-range attempt for Chesterfield saved by Bass in the dying seconds.
The match concluded with both sides sharing the spoils, a fair reflection of a thrilling encounter in front of a passionate crowd.
Notts County can take heart from their resilience, fighting back twice in a hostile environment. They registered six shots on target, equalling Chesterfield's tally, and won the battle for corners, with nine compared to the home side's five.
However, both teams were guilty of infractions, with Notts committing eight fouls and receiving three yellow cards. Chesterfield matched them with nine fouls and three bookings of their own.
This result leaves Notts County with plenty to build upon as they look to solidify their place in the upper reaches of the League Two table.
The Magpies will be eager to convert this hard-earned point into momentum as they prepare for their next challenge.
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