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Stuart Maynard has certainly transformed the Notts County fortunes this season so far. Just one defeat in eleven matches since the start of the season. In what ways do PON members believe Notts have improved under Stuart & do you think that he can improve the team even further?6 points
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The turnaround under Stuart Maynard has been remarkable. His emphasis on defensive solidity has undoubtedly been a game-changer. Considering the challenges last season, with the lack of squad flexibility, Maynard has worked wonders with limited resources. It's evident that he's fostering a culture of resilience and teamwork, which brings out the best in the players. Those early hiccups were always going to be there, but his learning curve has been steep and impressive. Furthermore, Maynard's willingness to engage with academy prospects and integrate them shows foresight. Encouraging young talents not only bolsters team morale but also strengthens the club's identity. It's exciting to witness how he has seamlessly blended tactical acumen with player management skills. As the season unfolds, it will be crucial for him to maintain this momentum and ensure the team remains adaptable to ever-emerging challenges. There's a sense of optimism now that wasn’t there before, and that's a testament to his leadership.6 points
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Stuart Maynard has done remarkably well, and it's important to praise the owners for standing by him and providing a strong platform for his success. This shows their strong belief in his abilities. The recruitment this summer has been excellent, and we now have a squad that fights and defends much better than in previous seasons. Maynard is thriving with this support, and his tactical knowledge is becoming clearer as he grows more comfortable in his role. I am very pleased, as it reflects the hard work throughout the club and the brilliant effort our head coach puts in.6 points
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Maynard's impact on Notts' defence can't be understated. His strategies have brought a sense of stability that was much needed. Let's hope the upward trajectory continues!6 points
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I was hesitant to reply to this, as we’ve heard about the manager of the month award having a curse. I really think this topic has jinxed us. We were looking so strong, but then things took a turn for the worse. People started saying that Stuart Maynard was under pressure, even though we were third in the league table. The change we’ve seen is incredible. It’s impressive how much we’ve improved, and despite the challenges, we are managing them and finding solutions. I see no reason to doubt Maynard now. I believe he has earned our full support, and I am encouraged by both his progress and that of the team.6 points
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I think Stuart Maynard has done well with what he has control over. However, the early injuries and the squad's size have been difficult for us. The performances were improving steadily early on, but since Gillingham, they've been inconsistent. It's a good test of his ability to see how he manages to regain form. I'm not expecting Notts to win the league, but losing home games, inconsistent performances, and injuries are real tests for him. Losing Jodi Jones is out of his control, but Kellan Gordon should help fill that void. He needs to talk to the owners in January and encourage them to add more depth. A striker would help a lot, but how we rotate, bring in players, and pick up vital points will determine the transition's success. Early signs were promising, but if teams see we struggle with absences or if we get more injuries, it could be costly.6 points
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Stuart Maynard has got much right so far; the transformation in our play and defending has been very promising. I think we can forget this past Saturday, against Port Vale - I think he was desperately trying to navigate a very tricky game. I don't think we had many options to really change the outcome there, so I would hope nobody takes that result or Gillingham as a means to dampen what has been a very promising transformation. One thing, which might seem critical - I believe Maynard must demand high performance levels in every game. Morecambe, Carlisle United and Port Vale have seen a mixture of performance. Yes, each of the games which proved to be difficult, two away from home, but I do think various things have impacted the performance. One way experienced league managers navigate these periods is by motivating their players to play at high levels. Yet it's nothing short of promising the transformation we have seen, and whilst we have done well, there are signs at times that we do miss Macaulay Langstaff and even Aaron Nemane. Nemane would have been someone who could have changed the outcomes against Gillingham and Port Vale, no doubt. Yet I acknowledge we have to use what we have, whilst maintaining the same high levels and hopefully, we can continue to see the success on the pitch.6 points
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Every manager is learning, gaining experience, and trying to improve on the job. It helps Stuart Maynard that the board is giving him a platform to succeed. Their support last season was unlike many other clubs, and it was great to see because I think it’s helped us push on this season. Defensively, you could see improvements even when he first arrived, and with the new defenders, it’s gotten even better. He has a good squad, but he’s getting the most out of it. I like how he’s open to rotating players and doesn’t overplay anyone when it’s not needed. Some managers have favourite players or won’t drop the big earners, but Maynard has taken control of the squad. It was tough for him last season because most players were Luke Williams' signings. I’m sure they tried for Maynard, but he couldn’t change much and needed them to buy into his vision. He’s improving, and you can see it in how we play. We’re much more consistent and better overall. Credit goes to Williams and the managers before him for building the foundation, but Maynard is doing wonders in his own way.6 points
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Defensively we have improved leaps and bounds. The team has belief throughout and that really makes for the intake of Stuarts game plans and football philosophy. They run and play for each other, which in turn works well in both attack and defensively. Also having a squad capable of covering each other breeds confidence and maintains healthy competition. Long may it last. COYP.6 points
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It’s good to see him performing well. I always believed he could come good. Last season, the critics said we would be in the relegation zone, and I do wonder if their energy could be better spent encouraging the team. It’s disappointing that some people wanted them to fail. He is a good coach, and all they needed was time. The squad has improved since last season, which is a massive positive. I think the club made the right choice by standing by him, and the transition after Luke Williams’ departure has been quite smooth now that he has his own players.5 points
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Injuries have been a dampener, but Maynard's approach in managing the squad depth is commendable. Adding a striker could be the key in January.5 points
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Maynard's done wonders with the squad rotation. His willingness to use different players highlights his adaptability and foresight.4 points
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I think this was a game where Matty Platt really showed his leadership at the back. The first half was cagey, and we didn’t look like ourselves, but the way the defence stayed organised was key. Platt’s ability to get forward for corners has been excellent, and today it paid off. He’s right when he says we needed to keep things tight and avoid sloppy mistakes, and you could see how much they focused on that. His goal was a bonus and a deserved reward for his hard work. Great to see the team bounce back and keep the clean sheet, especially after the last two home results. Up the Pies!4 points
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It was a dissapointing end to last season, no one can deny that, but to give Stuart some slack he was basically stuck with the squad that he had until season's end. But during that time I'm sure that Stuart & his coaching team identified the areas where the weaknesses were & the players that needed to be released & retained. I would have thought that Stuart & his coaching staff would have great input on the type of players they wanted to fill the gaps where the team were weak. I think he got what he wanted, but then he had to gel them together into a team which I believe he's done well up to date. I also think that he has ensured that Notts can introduce different styles of play when it's necessary. For example, this side now has flair going forward, but can defend with grit & determination to grind out a result if required. We have seen examples of this this season. A side looking to be successful has to be adaptable to the conditions & the opposition. Let's hope that the great form can continue & this squad can only get better as the season progresses.4 points
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As others have pointed out I think the defence is the main difference between last season and this one, whether it was down to Maynard or the recruitment team or a mixture of both I don’t know nor do I really care, I’m just glad that we are doing really well at the moment and long May it continue, I’m so pleased for Stuart he has certainly proved a lot of fans wrong and there are lots having to eat humble pie. I’m hoping that Stuart (and let’s not forget his management team) can take the players from strength to strength and continue this marvellous form.4 points
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Maynard has certainly tightened things up at the back in his team , but whether that was his doing or something the Recruitment team recognized maybe up for Debate. I think I would come down in Maynard/s favour as the Recruitment team didn't sign any new defenders in the Last January Transfer Window. Richard Montague and his team seemed to think along the Luke Williams line of thinking and decided to leave things has they were, with almost Disastrous Results. Like any New Coach it took time for Maynard to incorporate his playing Style into the Notts Squad and on a couple of occasions ,he seemed have the right (the away wins at Bradford and Newport(?) ) balance only for the Magpies to Struggle in matches following those excellent Results causing Fans, to Doubt if he was up to the Job. And his lack of Experience as a Full Time Coach was also a huge concern for Fans and with Notts tumbling down the League Table in the latter half of last season, the Fans worries seemed to be confirmed. With New Defenders and Goalkeeper arriving at Meadow Lane, the overall outlook for the New Season seemed to be on the Up, however with a Poor Preseason and the Magpies still shipping Goals it looked as if the New Head Coach and his Staff hadn't learned from the Lessons of Last Season. But once the League Season began suddenly we Fans have seen a different Stuart Maynard, he seems to have Stiffened his Backbone and he's slowly starting to Stamp his Personality on His Team. And this could be why there as been an upwards turn in the Notts performances and Results. He certainly isn't the Finished Article by any means, but hopefully like his Squad of Players he will Carry on Improving and will be able to Push the Magpies forward, to at Least a Playoff Place come the Season's End.4 points
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Defensive stability has been the cornerstone of Maynard's approach, and one can't help but feel optimistic about the club's trajectory under his guidance. His vision for integrating young and veteran talents alike has paid dividends. It’s always a challenge when new management comes in, but the players seem to have responded positively. The ability to adapt to different formations and keep opponents guessing has been thrilling to watch. We have a style that’s both solid and dynamic. As long as Maynard continues this approach, there's every chance we'll be pushing for those playoff spots. Stability, adaptability, and a keen eye for talent make him a manager to watch in the coming seasons.3 points
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Matty Platt has responded well. The match against Wimbledon was nothing short of spectacular. The team worked together brilliantly, and they are becoming stronger. Despite the injuries at times for Notts, we are still doing well. It might not always be pretty, but at the end of the day, it’s the results that matter. Nobody really cared about last season when we were performing well and would lose games. We need to accept that sometimes we have to grind out results.3 points
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The goal might’ve been a scrappy one, but Platt’s determination to keep going after the first corner was great to see. He felt there was something there, and he was right! His partnership with the backline was really strong throughout the game, keeping Wimbledon from causing too much trouble. Even though it wasn’t the most exciting match, you could tell the team’s focus was on being disciplined and waiting for their moment. It’s also good to hear Platt wanting to add more goals to his game, if he can keep getting in those positions, he could be a real threat from set pieces all season. Great win!3 points
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Platt’s comments after the game really reflect the mentality of the team right now, keeping things tight at the back and waiting for the right moment to strike. It wasn’t the most exciting first half, but it’s games like this where you need to stay patient. Matty did that perfectly, and his goal from Palmer’s corner was well deserved. His performances have been consistently strong this season, and getting that second goal early on in the season will give him plenty of confidence moving forward. The team as a whole looked more disciplined, especially defensively, which was great to see after the last couple of home results. Onwards and upwards!3 points
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It's great to see someone unexpected scoring the winning goal, especially in such an important match. I agree that his height makes him a natural target. With players like Jatta as well, it forces the opposition to think carefully about who to mark. The joy on Matty Platt's face after scoring, along with his celebration with Jacob Bedeau, was absolutely brilliant.3 points
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That was a real battle, but Platt stepped up when it mattered! Great to see us bounce back.3 points
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Matty Platt is part of a defensive unit that has made such a difference to Notts this season. His contribution to this improvement has been immense. And I believe our defensive team can only get better as the season progresses. The improvement in Notts defensive game gives them a real chance of getting promotion if they can keep up the good form they have been showing.3 points
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Platt’s ability to get that goal from Palmer’s corner was exactly what the team needed. I think it’s a great sign when defenders can step up and make a difference in tight games like this. His goal might not have been the flashiest, but it showed real awareness and hunger. It’s also encouraging to see him aiming to add more goals to his game. Getting two goals so early in the season from a centre-half is brilliant and could be a huge asset as we push for more results. Defensively, he and the backline were solid, and that clean sheet speaks volumes after recent home games. Well-deserved win!3 points
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It was a tough game to watch at times, especially in the first half where we didn’t create many chances. But what I loved was how Matty and the backline kept things tight and stayed composed. Platt’s goal was the turning point, and I think it just shows how much he’s growing into his role. The fact that we kept the clean sheet as well just makes this win even more satisfying.3 points
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set pieces is an area where i do think we can get goals, but i am delighted for matty platt. he put a lot into his performance and i think we might see him score a few more before the season is over. brilliant worked goal, persisting paid off.3 points
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Love seeing Matty Platt contribute with goals! Excellent performance all round.3 points
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Everyone needs a break sometimes, and mental health is important. I noticed he looked unhappy at the final whistle against Port Vale, but that might have been because of the result. I hope he’s not too hard on himself about his performances. It’s good that he’s opened up and has been given time to get more support.3 points
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I agree @Robbie it’s great to see home grown players playing a part in games on the downside it’s pretty certain if they do well we won’t have them for long because they’ll be poached.3 points
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Another great transformation under Stuart is that he is not afraid to give the Notts Academy youngsters an opportunity to shine. There were 10 Academy players in the squad against Northampton with 3 in the first 11, & there were 6 youngsters in the team all at once towards the end of the game I don't think it will be long before we see a few of them get on the bench for a league game.3 points
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One thing I’ve particularly noticed about Stuart Maynard’s tenure is the sense of unity within the squad. The players seem more cohesive, and there's a noticeable uptick in morale. Each match feels like a fresh opportunity, and the boys are genuinely playing for each other. It's a stark contrast to the disarray from last season. Maynard's tactical flexibility, especially with our backline, has brought a real sense of assurance. I believe he's creating a solid blueprint that will serve us well in the long run. And it's not just about this season; Maynard seems focused on laying the groundwork for sustained success. It's been a pleasure seeing this transformation unfold, and there's hope for even more improvements.2 points
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Matty’s goal was scrappy but well-deserved! Brilliant effort from the whole squad. Great to see the defensive line hold firm! Platt’s goal just topped it off.2 points
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Matty Platt, Notts County’s 27-year-old central defender, was thrilled after his side’s hard-fought 1-0 victory over AFC Wimbledon at Meadow Lane. Not only did Platt’s header secure the win, but it also ended the club’s two-match winless streak at home, delivering both a crucial three points and a clean sheet. Speaking after the game, Platt expressed his joy at what he described as the perfect outcome. "Yes it is, it was a tough game to be fair today. I think Wimbledon came and made it difficult for us at times, especially in the first half," he noted. Notts County had been eager to avoid conceding the first goal again, particularly after their previous home results followed a similar pattern. Platt acknowledged that their first-half performance was far from ideal but emphasised the importance of remaining defensively solid during periods when they weren't at their best. "At times in the first half we weren't at our best, but I think especially us at the back, we were thinking, just keep it tight, keep it at 0-0," he explained, adding, "and then we know at some point things are going to change and we're going to grow into the game." The first half, characterised by a lack of clear-cut opportunities for both sides, was described by Platt as a "slow burner." He stressed the team’s focus on maintaining their defensive shape during such a tense period, knowing that they would eventually find their rhythm. "We just didn't want to concede any sloppy goals in that first half because when the game is probably not, as you say, free-flowing, there's not many chances, you just want to keep it tight," he said. The match's pivotal moment came in the 67th minute when Platt rose to meet Matty Palmer’s corner, securing the game’s only goal. Reflecting on his goal, Platt admitted that it wasn’t the cleanest strike but was nonetheless delighted. "I'll take anything that I can get to be fair," he said with a smile. "We've been trying a lot of in-swingers this season and I think we just thought today we'd mix it up a little bit, go with a little bit of an out-swinger," Platt revealed, describing the tactical tweak that led to his goal. He continued, "The first one he [Palmer] did I got on the end of it, and I just felt like there was a bit of something there for us, so I just told him to keep doing it, and thankfully one went in for us." The goal, which travelled through a crowd of players, left Wimbledon’s goalkeeper stranded. Platt credited teammates David McGoldrick and Alassana Jatta for distracting the goalkeeper. "I think Didzy and Ajay have gone for it and that's probably put the keeper off a little bit," he speculated. There was a moment of confusion during the goal celebration when the stadium announcer credited the goal to McGoldrick. However, Platt was confident it was his. "I was a bit confused when he said that because I was pretty sure it was mine. I was 90% sure it was mine," Platt recalled, laughing off the mix-up. Having already scored once away this season, Platt expressed his happiness at scoring at Meadow Lane." It's always something that I try and add to the game," he said. Referring to his ambitions as a centre-half to contribute more goals. With two goals to his name early in the season, Platt is aiming for more. "As the centre-half, I'm trying to get 4 or 5, you know, 6 a season, and to get 2 pretty early on is good." Looking ahead, Platt is eager to continue the club’s positive start to the season. "I think we've had a pretty good start," he said, reflecting on recent results. "It was important today to get back to winning ways, and we look forward to Barrow midweek." With his goal securing a much-needed win, Platt's performance will undoubtedly give Notts County a boost as they aim to maintain their momentum in the coming fixtures. Don’t miss Stuart Maynard’s thoughts on Notts County’s hard-fought win over AFC Wimbledon! Read the full interview now on Pride of Nottingham and share your comments – we’d love to hear what you think! Check out our match report on Notts County’s 1-0 win over AFC Wimbledon! Share your thoughts on the key moments and join the established feedback on Pride of Nottingham. Have your say and be part of the conversation!2 points
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I hope he’s ok.2 points
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He spoke well in his interview after the match. I appreciate the respect he shows, even when the other team doesn't display the same level of class. The management has done their research, and we should be better at set pieces. It would be great to score more from corners, but that will come with time.2 points
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I think I was a tad over critical with my comments against Wimbledon and I undervalued our ability to grind out a result. Plan A is to out-play teams and I know there are some very good teams in League 2 and this isn’t always going to happen. If we grind out another win against Barrow I won't complain! Their good form at the start of the season has tailed off a bit so it's as good a time as any to play them. They've lost 4 of their last 5 and are struggling for goals a tad, the first goal from us might just dent their confidence even more and should put us in strong position to get something from the match. If Macari is struggling a bit McDonald would seem the obvious choice, but he is left-footed so it might make things a bit harder for him to play the RCB role. You could move Platt across but he’s been so good I would be reluctant to do it. I think Cundy has looked awkward there, so Ness might be the best option if he's fit enough. Mad to think after last season we’ve now got a lot of defensive options both in defence and midfield but now we’re struggling in attack due to injuries. Think I’d start Brown, with Ceds out we kind of need to see something from him now. We overplayed McGoldrick last season so although I'd want him to start, bringing him off the bench would still be a great option if we needed him. And I’ve no idea who our best wingbacks are still, no-one's found any consistency there yet but I think Tsaroulla and Gordon are the sensible choices.2 points
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It's not a problem for us; we can give him the time he needs. I just hope he can find the inner peace to avoid feeling down over time.2 points
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I understand this is just an idea, and there's nothing wrong with that. It's good to share thoughts on topics that could help the site. I believe we should encourage healthy discussions, so I wouldn't support downvoting or disagree reactions. I would prefer to explain my reasons instead and not focus on reactions. I wouldn't want to discourage anyone or make them feel that their posts aren't valid.2 points
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Let’s keep working with the young players, as they can gain valuable time and experience. I hope we rest our two forwards; I wouldn't want to risk injury to Jatta or Didzy. However, this raises the question of who could play in their place.2 points
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#waffle1004 5/5 streak: 79 #wafflediamondteam wafflegame.net2 points
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#waffle1004 3/5 streak: 193 #wafflemaster wafflegame.net Dealt a dud hand2 points
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Platt’s header was brilliant! Solid defensive work from the whole team too. Much-needed win!2 points
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I think that Notts can get a positive result at Barrow. McDonald coming into the side at Barrow, if Macari is injured, will not weaken the Notts side at all. I believe that McDonald will soon be a regular in the Notts side as the season progresses. Away from home, the Notts attacking midfield & strikers get more space to work there magic & with a rock solid defence, Notts shouldn't be afraid of any side in this division.2 points
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I imagine there will be several changes....DM ran himself into the ground LM looked like he pulled something. AJ headed the upright right in front of us in the FS.hope it isn't another concussion protocol.SR can hopefully only make the bench wasn't impressed by him today..I think several more picked up knocks. Tuesdays team will be very interesting....2 points
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I only use the reactions “like” etc. sparingly if I really like something or the laughing reaction if I find it funny, I don’t necessarily like everything I agree with and I would hate to think that anyone thought I disliked or disagreed with something because I haven’t liked it. If I strongly disagree I would quote the section I disagreed with and say why I disagree.2 points
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A few years ago, some fans might have questioned it, but that’s not for us to do. In this day and age, we can only hope that the darkness he feels will turn into happiness, joy, and things he enjoys. So, best wishes to Cedwyn Scott. Your wellbeing comes first, and if anyone questions you needing time, forget them.2 points
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Cedwyn Scott has done the right thing by opening up, asking for time, and seeking the appropriate support channels. This won't be an easy challenge for him to face, but we as fans can't allow him to feel like football is more important than his happiness. At the same time, we must offer him the support needed to show that once he does return that we will continue to be by his side. As a Notts player, his wellbeing is important but on a human level, his happiness and mental health is even more vital. Speaking from personal experience, people say it's brave to open up but some, like myself, can find speaking openly helpful. The worst part is if you don't have that support network, or if you seem to lose those you thought were your friends whilst struggling. Loneliness can be part of it, but depression is much more. It's a horrible thing to experience, so offering support is what helps. Again, I stress this isn't me making it about myself - but I relate to it.2 points
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Cedwyn Scott masks his struggles well, as I would never have guessed. I think it's a shame that he has taken so long to open up about it. Don't misquote me, it's good he has, but the moment it becomes a problem, I would hope any player would know the majority of fans would only want him to be happy and that Notts would support them. I guess Scott tried to be brave and keep it inside. It's good he's come out and is seeking the help needed.2 points
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All The Very Best Cedwyn. Not really Surprised the Poor Guy has Struggled to get his Career back on Track after the Injury he suffered, and Playing a Different Role which he's found difficult to Adapt too hasn't helped with his Recovery, there will be all kinds of things going through his Mind and Questions he'll be asking himself. Thankfully there is Help for Modern Footballers from Experts. Where in the Past a Player may have resorted to Alcohol or Even Drugs, these Days hopefully Ceds will Get The Expert Advice he needs to Regain His Confidence and He Will Be Able To Come Back Mentally Stronger and Produce the Performances in a Black & White Shirt We All Know He's Capable Of. Good Luck Fella, Notts Fans Have Got Your Back.2 points
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His nationality doesn't matter. What is important is his ability to get the best out of the players he chooses and his knowledge of tactics. All this "I would have rather had an English manager" is a fairytale belief because there are few good enough English managers ready for such a big appointment. Unfortunately, this is just how it is. While I would love to see Eddie Howe in the role, he has plenty of time yet for this to happen. If not Howe, then who? Lee Carsley was an interesting decision, but I don't think the F.A wanted him either. All this complaining is part of the issue with England. We have a manager now, and we need to get on with it.2 points
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