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Notts County midfielder Dan Crowley has been a pivotal figure in the Magpies’ successful start to the season. Despite missing their win over Accrington Stanley due to a minor injury, Crowley’s impact has been undeniable, and his return was marked with a stunning performance in the 4-2 victory against Bromley, where he scored and provided two assists. Reflecting on the club’s promising form, Crowley emphasised the importance of the Meadow Lane faithful and staying grounded as the season progresses. “It’s massive," Crowley said when asked about the support at Meadow Lane. "I remember going to big clubs earlier in my career, and it was intimidating. When you play against teams that are possession-based, and they have this massive pitch, perfect grass, and a roaring crowd in the stadium, you feel like you’ve already lost before the game even starts. So, I can imagine what it feels like for other teams coming to Meadow Lane with our fans and how well we play.” Indeed, Meadow Lane has become a fortress for Notts County, and it’s clear that Crowley thrives off the atmosphere. “I’m not worried about home games,” he continued. “It’s more the away games. We feel that as a team, if we can get really good at our away performances and keep picking up points, it’s going to be easier for us to get promoted. I just love playing at Meadow Lane; it’s so enjoyable.” Despite his confidence in home games, Crowley is not one to rest on his laurels. When pressed on how he motivates himself for away matches, he clarified, “It wasn’t that I focus more on away games; it’s just that I know how well we do at home. If we can pick up points away, it’s going to give us a massive chance of going up. So, it’s not that our focus is solely on away games.” One of the most impressive aspects of Crowley’s season so far has been his ability to contribute directly to goals. With three goals and four assists in just six games, he has already bettered many players’ season-long statistics. Yet, Crowley isn’t satisfied just yet: “Hopefully, I always want to keep getting better. Last season, my goals and assists were pretty good, but this season I want more, and I think I can do that.” Amid the positive start, Crowley stressed the importance of staying grounded. “Last season was a massive learning curve. At the start, when we were doing so well, I thought we were going to win the league,” he admitted. “This season, it feels different in terms of the characters we have in the team. It’s a very calm group, and that’s nothing against last season’s squad, but this year it feels more chilled.” Crowley’s maturity and reflective nature are evident as he discusses the importance of taking each game as it comes. He knows the dangers of getting ahead of themselves, especially in a long season. “You never win the league at the start of the season," he warned. "There’s a long way to go. We just have to keep focusing on our performances, and the results will work out if we keep playing well.” Crowley’s message extends beyond the dressing room, urging fans to share the team’s mindset. “I hope the fans stay humble and take it one game at a time, just like we do. Of course, everyone gets excited when we perform well, but we have to stay level-headed. That’s how we’ll go far.” As Notts County continue their charge in League Two, Crowley’s leadership, both on and off the pitch, will be crucial. His awareness of the challenges ahead, combined with his belief in the squad’s quality, makes him a key figure in Notts County’s quest for promotion. With Meadow Lane packed and buzzing, and a team growing in confidence, Crowley’s vision of success might well become a reality. But as he wisely reminds everyone, the season is long, and the journey has just begun. If you enjoyed the match report on Pride of Nottingham, why not share it with fellow fans on social media? Spread the word! Don’t miss Stuart Maynard’s thoughts ahead of today’s game against Gillingham. Read the preview and leave your comments!

Notts County fell to a narrow 1-0 defeat against Gillingham in a match that was overshadowed by questionable officiating and missed opportunities. Despite dominating possession with an impressive 70.5% of the ball, the Magpies were left frustrated as they struggled to convert their control into a tangible result, while Gillingham, with just 29.5% possession, capitalised on a controversial goal to secure all three points. The game's only goal came in the 38th minute, with Gillingham’s Elliott Nevitt slotting home after latching onto a through ball from Remeao Hutton. The timing of Nevitt’s run was contentious, with many in the stadium believing he was in an offside position, but the officials waved play on, and Gillingham took the lead. Whether timed to perfection or a missed offside call, the goal stood, and it ultimately decided the contest. Notts County, for all their possession, found it difficult to break down a resolute Gillingham defence. Their best chance came in the first half when Nick Tsaroulla rattled the post with a left-footed strike from the centre of the box, leaving the home fans gasping in disbelief. Jodi Jones, who looked lively down the right flank, also came close with a shot saved by Gillingham’s Glenn Morris. Unfortunately for Notts, Jones’ day was cut short as he was forced off with an injury in the 90th minute, adding to the Magpies' woes. The second half saw Notts push for an equaliser, with Sam Austin seeing a goal disallowed in the 86th minute. Deemed offside by the slimmest of margins by a late call by the assistant referee, much to the dismay of the Meadow Lane faithful. This decision, coupled with several other questionable calls throughout the match, only added to the frustrations of the Notts County players and supporters. Gillingham, while content to sit back and absorb pressure, was dangerous on the counterattack. The Gills managed five shots on target to Notts' three, highlighting their efficiency in front of goal. The visitors also benefitted from some resolute defending, particularly in the closing stages, as they withstood a barrage of corners and late pressure from Notts. Despite their limited time on the ball, Gillingham made the most of their chances and were well-drilled defensively, with Max Ehmer and Shadrach Ogie particularly impressive. The officiating was a key talking point after the match, with both sets of fans and players left bemused by several decisions. Notts County were shown three yellow cards, while Gillingham picked up four. The physical nature of the contest was reflected in the 21 fouls committed between the two sides, but it was the inconsistency of the refereeing that left a sour taste. Ultimately, it was a game of missed chances and misfortune for Notts County. Their 70.5% possession and six corners yielded no reward, and their inability to find the back of the net proved costly. Gillingham, on the other hand, will be pleased with their defensive display and the vital three points. For Notts, the focus now turns to regrouping, with the extent of Jodi Jones' injury a major concern ahead of their next fixture. Despite the loss, the Magpies can take heart from their overall performance, but they’ll know that results need to follow to maintain their push at the top end of League Two. Join the Pride of Nottingham match discussion and share your thoughts on the performance. What stood out to you? The lads still put in a solid shift despite the result, so take a moment to vote for your Pride of Nottingham Player of the Match and show your support!