Match Report: Notts County much improved in draw with Bury

Some pros and some cons at Meadow Lane this afternoon as Notts County failed to beat Bury, with Jon Stead missing a penalty, but put in a much-improved performance that saw warm applause by the Black & White Army at full time.

Neal Ardley had clearly talked some sense into his ailing players as they were bright from the off, with Rob Milsom going close with heading wide before rifling wide from just outside of the box, while Shaun Brisley also came close.

David Vaughan then smashed the post with a superb effort from long range, while Kristian Dennis and Andy Kellett missed gilt-edged opportunities before the break, giving the Notts fans something to smile about - something which hasn't really happened often this season.

In the second half, Bury picked up the pace as Chris Stokes headed just wide, but Notts soon regained the momentum and were given a superb opportunity from the spot when Andy Kellett's cross was handled in the box

Stead, County's top scorer with eight goals this season, took to the spot, but this time, Mr Reliable spurned the opportunity as he shanked his effort way over the bar into the Kop.

Notts did dust themselves off and continued to impress, with Matt Tootle seeing a half-volley palmed away by Bury goalkeeper Joe Murphy, but in the end, the spoils were shared at the San Sirrel, with Notts three adrift of safety.

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