The first half against Newport was genuinely enjoyable to watch. The intent and vigour in our attacking play were both refreshing and encouraging. Yet, as has often been the case, we seem to struggle with maintaining that momentum without conceding, particularly when we reach half-time at 0-0.

Playing in front of our own supporters always appears to give us an edge. Notts traditionally favours attacking the KOP in the second half, and that familiar setting seems to galvanise the team. However, after the break against Newport, we lacked that same sharpness and intensity.

Our strong start was undeniably a positive, and I believe there are more reasons to be optimistic than some fans might suggest. The real question, though, is how Paterson can inspire the squad to deliver a complete performance across the full ninety minutes, regardless of where the backing comes from.

Does anyone else notice this pattern? I’m not levelling criticism at the players or the new head coach, as this seems to be a longstanding Notts trait. I just can’t quite pinpoint the reason behind it.

i dont know what it is or how to explain it.

i have noticed that it does make a difference, i cant say i know a lot about the mental side of football. its a strange one because most teams are able and there are times when notts has the confidence to perform well for 90 minutes but attacking does tend to be better when its towards the support the team have. maybe we need to try to be louder and more encouraging throughout the games even when its tough or boring? i am not saying newport was boring.

It's a well known fact that football teams tend to play much better at home in front of their own supporters, although I think Notts have bucked that trend over the last few seasons.

I won't go into the advantages here because it's readily available on Google, but they do say that generally there is a psychological boost when playing at home due to the noise of the home supporters & if a team gets good away support.

A big factor unconected to the club support, is the way Notts play as a possession based team & you get teams playing defensively against Notts at ML but they have to come out & attack Notts at their place, thus giving Notts more room to exploit.

I think all of that is a big factor with how successful Notts are from match to match, but I do agree that support is equally important to Notts too, & we have the best supporters in the EFL so that does make a hell of a difference home & away.