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Notts County took to the pitch at the Eco-Power Stadium on Saturday afternoon, facing Doncaster Rovers in a match that saw both teams battle hard but ultimately share the spoils in a 1-1 draw. Coming into the game, the Magpies hoped to maintain momentum from their recent performances. While they showed flashes of attacking prowess, Doncaster’s resilience ensured honours were even. Play began energetically, with Notts County aiming to make their mark early on. In the 13th minute, their intent paid off when Alassana Jatta opened the scoring. Rising above the defence, Jatta powered a header into the high centre of the goal, leaving Doncaster’s keeper with no chance. Providing the assist, Jacob Bedeau delivered a pinpoint cross that found Jatta at just the right moment. Notts County fans celebrated, hoping their side would build on the lead. Despite going behind, Doncaster responded with determination. They quickly applied pressure, and their efforts led to several chances. Patrick Kelly had an opportunity early on, only to see his shot go high and wide, and a series of blocked attempts from both Luke Molyneux and Owen Bailey in the first half underscored Doncaster’s persistence. Statistically, Notts County controlled the tempo of the game, enjoying 59.2% of possession. However, Doncaster was efficient with their opportunities, managing 6 shots on target compared to Notts County’s 4. The home side’s nine corners, compared to Notts’ three, highlighted their attacking pressure, particularly in the latter stages of each half. Both teams traded fouls throughout the game, with Notts County committing 11 fouls and receiving three yellow cards, while Doncaster had 13 fouls without any bookings. As the game wore on, Notts County struggled to capitalise on their possession advantage. Doncaster grew into the game and began to create more meaningful opportunities. In the 73rd minute, their persistence paid off. Jamie Sterry floated a cross into the box, and Joe Ironside made no mistake, heading the ball into the bottom right corner to level the score. It was a well-taken goal, giving the home fans something to cheer about and setting up a tense final quarter of the game. In the last 20 minutes, both teams continued to push forward, with Doncaster’s Luke Molyneux looking particularly dangerous. He came close in the 89th minute, with one attempt saved and another narrowly missing the target. Notts County also had their moments, notably through Matt Palmer, whose long-range effort went just wide in the 78th minute. As the clock ticked down, the physical nature of the game intensified. Jevani Brown was shown a yellow card in the 90+3’ minute for a foul, adding to the earlier bookings for Jacob Bedeau and Nick Tsaroulla. While Notts County pressed hard in the closing minutes, they could not find a breakthrough, and the referee’s final whistle confirmed a 1-1 draw. This match highlighted both the resilience and areas for improvement for Notts County. While they managed to control possession and score first, converting this dominance into a decisive lead proved challenging. Their defensive discipline also came under pressure, with Doncaster’s relentless attack forcing the Magpies into crucial saves and blocks. Ultimately, the draw leaves Notts County with mixed feelings – a point earned, but an opportunity missed to secure a win. With this result, Notts County will now turn their attention to the next fixture, hoping to convert their solid possession play into more clinical finishing in front of goal. Cast your vote for Pride of Nottingham's Man of the Match from today's 1-1 draw with Doncaster Rovers! Join the conversation and share your thoughts on our match discussion for the same game over on Pride of Nottingham!