Sam Austin's brace helps Notts County close gap on National League leaders

Notts County kept up the pressure on National League leaders Wrexham by beating Woking at Meadow Lane. Sam Austin scored twice and assisted another as Notts County secured an excellent victory over fourth-place Woking.

The win moves Notts County one point behind first-place Wrexham, who play their game in hand on Tuesday.

Notts County made three changes to the side that lost to Wrexham. Aden Baldwin replaced Geraldo Bajrami in defence, Jodi Jones replaced Aaron Nemane and Sam Austin came in for Jim O’Brien. 

Junior Morias was named in the match day squad for the first time. After a first half of few clear-cut chances, Notts County turned up the pressure in the second half. 

Austin brilliantly dispatched Palmer's low cross to open the scoring. He then turned provider, playing a delicious cross into the area which Nemane directed goalwards with an acrobatic effort inside the six-yard box.

It was half saved by the keeper, but the ball ricocheted off the sub and into the net. 

Scott then played the perfect through ball for Austin to scamper into the area and apply the coolest of finishes for Notts County's third goal.

Slocombe saved from Rhys Browne as Woking tried to find a way back into the match, but Notts County remained relentless. 

Palmer controlled the ball superbly 25 yards out before curling an effort just wide. On the stroke of full-time, Palmer had another chance to score, but his shot was saved. 

Morias, who had replaced Langstaff earlier in the half, controlled a looping ball on his thigh, but his powerfully-struck half-volley was well-kept out by the Cards’ keeper.

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