Chris

In this edition of "PoN on One", Pride of Nottingham has taken time to ask two members to battle out for the crown. At some point, we will face the winners together if this interests them and we can also see a return for the unlucky contestants too. As a community it's always nice to have a fun way of interacting with each other, so it's nice to see two friends and two members compete for their pride. TonyHateley takes on Magpiejul, lets find out who has won the third edition of this feature. If you would like to take part please let us know! Come on you pies! Q-Les Brad Is Notts record goalscorer with 137 goals but who is in second place? Tony: I was in two minds about this either Tommy Lawton or my all time hero Tony Hateley. I am going to plump for Big Tony Hateley. Magpiejul: Lee Hughes Tony Hateley with 114 goals Q-Who managed Notts immediately before and after Jimmy Sirrel? Tony: Jimmy was in charge for two different times and I seem to remember after one of them Howard Wilkinson took charge Magpiejul: Jack Wheeler Before-Billy Gray, after-Ron Fenton. Q-In which season were Notts unbeaten at home? Tony: That would be when Big Sam was in charge I think, was it 1997-1978 season? Magpiejul: 1970.71 1970/71-19 wins,4 draws-4th tier champions. Q-What is the official name of West Ham United's home ground? Tony: I thought it was Upton Park but it's probably had a new name but I won't cheat and look it up, so my answer is Upton Park (probably wrong) Magpiejul: Boleyn Ground (Upton Park) A-The Boleyn Ground but it is also known as Upton Park. Q-Name 2 teams known as The Hatters? Tony: Luton Town is definitely one, is the other one Stockport? Magpiejul: Luton Town & Stockport County Luton Town and Stockport County due to millinery connection. Q-Where did Chris Kiwomya begin his career, being their leading scorer in season 1991/92? Tony: This is going to have to be a complete guess, I'll just pick a team at random and say Bolton Wanderers. Magpiejul: Ipswich Town. A-Ipswich Town. Again very interesting to see the answers, very close and credit to both contestants. Tony: 2.5 Points Magpiejul: 4 Points (Tony You haven't been playing attention in class!!, Magpiejul very well done to you!!) Pride of Nottingham would like to Thank both Tony (Pretty much considered a legend around PoN) and Magpiejul for taking the time to answer, feature and be part of this. Thank you very much!

Tomorrow Saturday 23rd of March, Notts County will make a trip to Swindon Town who are currently 3rd in the table. The County Ground will hopefully not fall victim to the weather that we are seeing, as the snow is starting to flurry down. It's pretty cold out in Nottingham, so it would be interesting to hear what it's like currently in Swindon. Notts come into the game having beat Scunthorpe United with a Dean Leacock goal sealing all 3 points in County's favour, all surrounding the club will say it's a nice returning gift for his team and fans. Swindon Town themselves having picked up three vital points at Yeovil Town last Tuesday, will hope to return to home soil collecting a further 3 more points by continuing their form against Notts county. Their manager Kevin MacDonald has urged The Robins to keep backing the team as Notts County visit the County Ground. Notts County will visit Swindon Town with very little risk, the expectations seen regarding the play-offs would surely now be seen as a miracle, so it's important that the lads just go out hoping to have fun and claim victories on the back of improved performances. Tommy Miller's fitness is currently being monitored after he picked up a suspected calf injury, with Louis Thompson returning after being on international duty with the Welsh under-21's. Jamal Campbell-Ryce has a knock, who is likely to miss the game. Right back Kelly continues to struggle with his calf injury which has seen him miss the past couple of games. Both sets of fans really need to get behind their respective squads, it will be a very good occasion for the 'Wheelbarrow Song' to be repeatedly sung and I personally hope to hear all Magpie supporters firmly getting behind the team and silencing the home crowd. Previous results might leave us asking questions, it's now we stay loyal and help to build for the upcoming season.

Pride of Nottingham returns with the 'Opposition View' prior to the game against Swindon Town, We've taken the time to ask a series of questions to medievalmikey. Notts have found a good string of form in away games, Saturday may prove to be a challenge. Swindon Town come into the game having previously beaten Yeovil 2-0 and narrowly losing to Brentford before that. As the season dwindles all games begin to be play there part, hopefully we can get something out of the game! Who knows if Judgey will score the winner again? Firstly, could you tell prideofnottingham.co.uk a little about yourself, such as how long you've been a fan for? I am 67 years old, mainly retired and have followed Swindon Town for many years. I recall my grandad taking me to watch 3rd Division South matches when I was 7 or 8 but watched local Southern League football in 60s and early 70s. I began watching Swindon seriously around early 80s and have held a season ticket for around 30 years. Can you tell us your opinion on the Di Canio saga and how did you feel about his departing from Swindon Town? Paolo DiCanio was very strong on the family ethos and had the vision that the club was an extended, loyal family. Both his parents died last season on the eve of our Plymouth matches and this seemed to tighten that bond. Despite this he has a fiercely individual persona and I felt that his standards were so exacting that our club would be too small a stage: his early departure seemed inevitable. Such a pity it was so abrupt and unpleasant. Under Paolo there always seemed to be a problem. Kevin MacDonald is much more pragmatic. The clubs debt sent a shock-wave around League One, I myself was surprised to hear such news. How is this going and are you any closer to a potential takeover? The debt appears to be internal and came to light because Andrew Black, the majority shareholder, seemed to have had enough of running the club in the style of the manager. He decided to sell up in a hurry and sell Matt Ritchie which led to all the well publicised events. We do have new owners but are still subject to a Football League embargo. Things are generally uncomfortable just now. Do you think Swindon Town can climb back into one of the top two positions? We are currently 3rd after another excellent away result so a top two finish is still on but it is very tight. We cannot be relegated! Please share a little about your clubs progress in the past 3 years, do you have a special memory from this period? The last three years have been like a roller coaster ride: wooden spoon, championship and losing appearances at Wembley. I guess the special memory would have to be the appointment of Paolo DiCanio and his team because this led to the on field excitement over the last 2 seasons. How long have you been following Swindon Town and do you travel to away games? I have watched Swindon Town off and on for close to 60 years but have done so regularly for around 30. I do not tend to travel to away games: home matches involve a 65 mile round trip. Matt Richie, an ex Notts County loanee departed for league one rivals Bournemouth. How much of a loss was this? I do not think that Matt Ritchie's loss was of major significance so far as the playng side was concerned and Kevin MacDonald can't miss what he never had. The political effect of Matt's move was cataclysmic. How important has James Collins been for you and at the age of 22, he must be gaining some attention from other clubs, how do you see Swindon Town handling any possible offers? James Collins is something of an enigma in that he seems to promise more than he has achieved yet has scored a lot of goals including 4 as a second half substitute. He appeared to be afraid of making a mistake because Paolo would have no hesitation in subbing him in the first 20 minutes. Many of our players seem to have suffered from that phobia. I think we must accept the fact that we will become a selling club especially since Kevin MacDonald's appointment. he is already giving youth players a taste of first team involvement. Which Notts County players would you consider to be a threat and which of your defenders is most likely going to be made aware of them? I must admit to knowing little of Notts County's strengths. Our defence is well marshalled by Darren Ward and Wes Foderingham is our best goalkeeper for years. Our strength is teamwork: we have no star player. Can you tell us which Swindon Town players are most likely to be lively? Nathan Thompson has been a revelation this season and has seamlessly replaced Paul Caddis. Darren Ward is a great leader and Alan McCormack is hurting oppsition with his strong runs now he is back in midfield. Simon Ferry is our best ball player. Andy Williams has pace and control but finishing is not great. James Collins and Adam Rooney are beginning to score more regularly. Please tell us about the facilities around County Ground and anything which our travelling fans may find useful? There are a few fast food oulets close to County Ground and various pubs although I don't know which are away fan friendly. Our friends from Walsall meet up for a drink in the cricket club which adjoins the County Ground. There are Pay and Display car parks within easy walking distance. Lastly could you tell Pride of Nottingham about your all time footballing hero? My all time footballing hero is Brian Clough an immense footballing talent whose career was cut short by injury. He then became a very successful and charismatic manager. I was fortunate to see him play against Sweden at Wembley in 1959. I turned up and paid at the turnstile! We would like to Thank medievalmikey for taking the time to answer our questions, also for taking the time register and join us. Any members reading this who haven't already please consider saying hello to his introduction.

Pride of Nottingham returns with their 'PoN on One' feature. We take one community member and find a fan from any of the English leagues, asking both a series of 6 questions. The original trial went down very well, which saw Dan vs 2Piesonmyshirt. This time we've asked Daz who's main side is Nottingham Forest, we put him against our very own MuddyPatchPie. We hope you enjoy reading this feature, if you would like to take part please get in touch. Now let's find out who our winner of the PoN on One #2 is!! Best of luck to both contestants. Q-Which team did Notts beat in the 1894 FA cup final and what was the score Daz: Bolton 3-1 I think Muddy: Notts beat Bolton in the 1894 FA Cup Final, I believe the score was 4 1. A-Bolton Wanderers-4-1 Q-What were Notts nicknamed before becoming The Magpies. Daz: Not sure on the nickname, County? Muddy: Our original nickname was 'The Lambs'. I think we were named after a gang of Nottingham thugs! A-The Lambs-Apparently named after a notorious gang of Nottingham thugs. Q-Which team plays at Glanford Park. Daz: I think Glanford Park is Scunthorpe Muddy: Scunthorpe United play at Glanford Park. I've been there twice to watch Notts. On my last visit, Judgey broke a light fitting in the away stand during the pre match warm up and the stewards tried to cordon the area off with tape, which we then had to climb over every time we left our seats. Think we were more in danger from the tape than the light fitting dropping on our heads!! A-Scunthorpe United. Q-Name 2 teams who play or have played at a ground called The Racecourse Ground (not the same ground) Daz: Wrexham for sure, I don't no who else plays at the racecorse ground Muddy: Well Wrexham is the obvious one. I think i'm going to go for Derby County as I believe they played at the Cricket Ground known as the Racecourse Ground before they moved to the Baseball Ground. A-Wrexham play at one now And Derby County played on one before moving to The Baseball Ground. Q-Which player scored 6 goals in a FA cuptie but finished on the losing side. Daz: Dennis law Muddy: Denis Law scored 6 goals for Manchester City against Luton. The match was abandoned and they lost the replay. A-Denis Law-Man City were beating Luton but the match was abandoned after 70 minutes.Luton won the replay 3-1. Q-Which team is known as The Glovers. Daz: Yeovil Muddy: Yeovil Town are known as The Glovers, something to do with the town's links with glove making. A-Yeovil Town. Another well thought contest between two knowledgeable football fans, lets see who wins. Daz: 2.5 Point Muddy: 5 Points (Daz very narrowly missed out on 1.5 points, MuddyPatchPie very impressive!!) Pride of Nottingham would like to Thank both Daz (Forest Fan - Boooo!, He likes all locals teams in truth) and @MuddyPatchPie for taking the time to answer, feature and be part of this. Thank you very much!

Over the years I've followed football I have witnessed some very special events though I haven't seen Notts County in the highest English division or seen England win a major international trophy. I have witnessed things I hold dear to my heart, so growing up as a Notts County fan never really held me back. I was never bothered during Junior school about what people said about Notts County, I was always proud, more importantly, when you have someone who inspires you, well nothing can make it seem as bad for following your heart. When I was in year 5, I switched school as the one I was attending wasn't very supportive. I recall being told stories about how rough the school was, little did I know it would become a place where I felt I could be me,to do the things I wanted and not listen to what people thought of me. My first day went very quickly, it was a hot topic when people found out who I supported. I recall being asked why, although nobody really judged me – It was all friendly. I recall the majority supporting either Nottingham Forest, Manchester United or Liverpool. My best school years was the year and a half I spent there, I made so many friends and got to know them pretty well. It was during break time or dinner, when it became fun. Playing football and being the only County fan who would voice it, I think that brought me a lot of respect and my attendance and learning all become a very positive thing. One lad, a forest fan, used to put himself across a bit like Paul Gascoigne, a practical joker but also very weird. He was alright though, I used to enjoy listening to his antics and my class probably had the most natural mix of people. The first time I was given the nod to play for the school, I honestly didn't see myself making the side. I was talented but I allowed my confidence to become an issue, 5-a-side was the first competition I entered and I excelled in the smaller space. Rival players started having to take me out, I recall the last game being subbed because two lads had sandwiched me into this thick plastic divider, pushing me straight into it. I can't really say I ever played well on a normal pitch, I never really settled and it's much harder than people realize. By this point in my senior year, I was into playing football all the time and any chance I got I would do so. The ball was never too far from my feet, naturally I liked to be the player who shone when I did. I never really shined when I was around people equal or better, which is a shame. Some interesting moments towards the final years, if there's enough interest I will touch upon these more. I only really intended to talk about my earlier days, then start mentioning my work. I got a little side tracked remembering a fond period of my life, one I often wished I could re-live. Out of school, I didn't play much football. I went straight into working pretty much, I got a job very quickly thanks to my brother and it was going well. During that time, I had met the Australian cricket team which included stars like Shane Warne. They actually got me into trouble and were very unprofessional, although later on one of them apologised to me. I didn't know who he was, I just pretended. A couple of other famous people stayed at the hotel I worked, although it was on the decline to be honest and I started working mainly mornings and functions. I got quickly noticed for being a hard worker, which ended up getting more responsibilities. It was pretty cool, laid back and if it wasn't for the chef, well it would have been a totally different story. From there, I moved onto helping to look after my mum who had become fairly ill. It wasn't really until Kate was expecting that I managed to find work again. It was very rewarding, yet was a stressful place to work. I came across and met more famous people during my time there, it was pretty cool for that. Nottingham Forest's opposition would generally stay, especially if it was long distant. I recall Watford booking the upstairs function room for their meals and a couple of players spoke to me, again I didn't know who they were. The highlights for me was when Notts County actually were taken over by Munto, although now it's not the best thing, it was exciting for me then. Peter Trembling, Sven-Göran Eriksson and Sol Campbell etc. All people I met and spoke to, although I never really liked Peter, he was very flashy and a little snappy. Sven was amazing, he made a fuss of me for wearing an England shirt (I always did back then). He stopped, politely asked me if I supported England, I laughed a little, then realizing who it was I became tongue tied. He then asked me 'Do you follow local football or support a premier league side?'. I responded nervously, local. He quickly smiled and rather passionately said 'I (long pause) like that very much', adding 'Are you a Notts Forest or Nottingham County fan'. I smiled, responded 'Notts County of course'. I then showed him my wallet and keys, which both had the Notts County badge on. He gave me a brief, very slight hug and then put his hand out. I didn't expect him to be so friendly! He was a real gent. I had the pleasure of seeing him very frequently, he would always visit for a meal at the weekend and become a figure who would be in attendance in events upstairs. However my surprise was going into work and the bar manager, then (a friend of mine) told me that 'you know who' was upstairs and he turned it into a game as to 'who' they were meeting, I didn't really know and guessed. I had a very strict briefing from the general manager, a women I despise to the tallest order. I was then asked by the events manager to go into the function room located upstairs, to collect some things behind the bar, while the shutters were actually down (which was odd). A faint voice (Peter Trembling) kept saying 'We can offer you a very good package, we want you to be a part of this' his voice quietened down. I then heard a laugh, then the same person asked a question which I didn't hear properly. Peter responded to the question 'Your Sol Campbell, we don't need to say any-more. We need iconic signings and the people behind the takeover are fully prepared to bring other top players into the club'. It was this point I really needed to stop being nosy, so I rushed to collect a few items I was asked to fetch. In the process I knocked into this plastic bottle bin and made a very loud noise. This didn't go down well, although nothing came of it. We were under strict orders to keep the area private, however, since I was asked by a manager it was resolved without my head being on the line, for this time at least. I have more stories like this, although I have gone on enough. Like I touched on before, if there's interest I will write more of these and I'll share some of my insights. I would prefer to write up about my previous job, as I found it the most rewarding without benefits such as meeting famous people. Working in the care industry is like a breath of fresh air, if you're prepared to try and make a difference and actually care. The job is the most rewarding and I spent a lot of my free time doing things with the residents who I dearly miss. I took a few to Notts matches, one is related to some very loyal fans who I also think a lot of, as does Jake. The amazing memories I have of the place, all for speaking to the residents as people and listening. I feel I became a vital part of the home and given a different chance, I would have welcomed to stay on, but things aren't so simple in life.

In 10 days time Notts County fan Hayley Rice will be taking centre stage live at Meadow Lane in support of raising funds for Cancer Research UK. Pride of Nottingham is always keen to help highlight charities and worthy causes such as this.As a small fan site right now we pride ourselves on the support we gain. It's only right that we support Hayley and her worthy charity, It's also one I'd like to strongly back myself since my Grandfather passed away from cancer, such a big loss for me and most people will have a similar experience with a loved one. Hayley a singer/songwriter from Nottingham first approached our fan site on the 28th of February, telling our community about her upcoming event. The event will see her début single 'In their eye's' released. The song is inspired by the legacy which is left behind when a loved one is lost. They still live on through their families, we still see them in their eyes. On the night Hayley will be joined by a pianist and a raffle will also take place with some fantastic prizes which includes a signed Notts County football. The single will then be officially released to buy on cd and available to download on Itunes. To celebrate there's also a live band which will get everyone in a lively spirit. The entry fee is a mere £5, the dress code is of course Black and White. Good Friday 29th March doors open at 7pm, tickets are available in the club shop. Pride of Nottingham would like to ask fans to get behind Hayley Rice, as this will be a fun and entertaining evening and all for a worthy cause. Why not have a nice enjoyable evening and see a live act, whilst supporting a charity? We would also like to wish Hayley all the best for her career and future. In the future who knows when Notts fans will see the return of Hayley Rice singing at Meadow Lane? Only time will tell what the singers future holds, although we hope to keep updated and in contact.with this rising star in the Nottingham music scene. http://youtu.be/wyY1I1ynm8k

Pride of Nottingham reflects on the upcoming games that Notts County have to the remainder of the season. On paper the ties could prove to be a difficult task of collecting points, which includes a trip to the current top of the league, Doncaster Rovers and 2nd place Brentford. The only exception is Colchester United, although nobody can rule this one to be an easy game as football isn't so predictable and neither are they. Notts County will be required to step up if they want to finish around the position we did the following year, come on you pies! Our first upcoming game at Swindon Town this coming Saturday on the 23rd, will see us play a team who could have very well been in the running for the first place, had they have beaten Brentford, Walsall which they draw 2-2 to the play-off chasing side and the shock loss to Bury. This could also include, like us, Preston North End where they ended up drawing 1-1 which is a shame we narrowly lost. Friday the 29th Notts County face Brentford away, this will probably be one of the games to watch right now. Brentford are making steady progress in securing one of the top two positions and if the worst, for them happens, they will most likely fall into the Play-offs in which they have good chances of winning in my opinion. Brentford have won their past two games (which includes a 2-1 win over Swindon Town). Prior to this they had lost two games. Notts County will then face Yeovil Town on Monday the 1st of April, this will be my chance to finally witness the growing star that is Paddy Madden! Yeovil have drawn their two previous games 2-2 and 0-0. They enjoyed a narrow win over Tranmere Rovers and lost to Colchester, proving they are no under dogs to be dismissed. On the 6th of April Notts County play Bournemouth away, a game which newly joined Fergio79 will be hoping to attend. We hope that any of the travelling readers warmly welcomes the return of this Juventus and Notts fan. Bournemouth previously had a five game losing streak! Turning it around at Stevenage 1-0 and then following up with a win against Oldham, another 1-0 win. Notts County will be at home against Colchester United on Saturday 13th of April, our 2nd from last home league tie and one I hope fans come flocking to attend. Colchester's form has been a little patchy, although it's improved in their last four games which has seen them beat Bury 2-1, draw, lose and draw to struggling Hartlepool United. On Saturday the 20th of April, Notts will travel to Doncaster Rovers. This is another game which Pride of Nottingham members will be looking to attend, as we look to take a small group. Doncaster who sit 1st currently are the side I most want Notts to beat (I can hope). Portsmouth drew to them 1-1, a game their manager openly questioned the second half performance which they put in. They previously beat Bournemouth 2-1, lost to MK Dons and beat Hartlepool United 3-0. Our very last game of the season will take place at Meadow Lane against Coventry, the game which falls on Saturday the 27th of April. Coventry fans will be hoping by this point that they are securely inside the play-offs and it will be down to us to make sure we end the season with a good performance and result. Coventry previously beat Hartlepool 1-0, they drew to Colchester and they beat Scunthrope United 2-1. Swindon Town were the last team to take all 3 points by beating them 2-1. A couple of good performances in any of the above games, a few wins and our season may end a little more positively. If we build now, next season might hopefully be very different but all the weight will ultimately fall down onto the players. For a season which started off so promisingly, the twist and turns haven't made life dull. We all hoped to make the play-offs, this sadly looks very unlikely but there's still a glimmer of hope. Pride of Nottingham is looking forward to sharing a full season with Notts fans and we hope to grow together, through the good and disappointing times, as fans we can voice our thoughts constructively. Come On You Pies!

My highlight prior to any home games is to buy a programme, I read these with my son and my grandfather used to collect them. Over the years we've seen so many different changes, for myself the thing I most look forward to his reading Mr Trews notes. There's many other interesting pieces within #themag but none more so than the 'Chairman's Notes'. It's a privilege for us at Pride of Nottingham to be able to carry the notes to the fans who may or not have read them, it makes interesting reading to recap or share to brand new readers. Good afternoon everyone and welcome to Meadow Lane for this npower League 1 game against Scunthorpe United. Let’s not shirk the main issue of the week, Tuesday night’s performance simply wasn’t good enough. I have seen a lot of the comments in the wake of that defeat to Preston and whilst I do not agree with them all obviously, I can empathise with the supporters. There is a general acceptance that our hopes of reaching the play-offs this season have all but been extinguished, but if there is anyone in the employment of this club who thinks that this is a reason to stop trying, to give anything less than 100% until the very last kick of the very last game, then they are very much mistaken. Anyone who is happy to take a wage from this football club, taking money out of the pockets of our supporters, should be prepared to go above and beyond expectations in everything that they do in the name of Notts County, it is the very minimum that I expect from my staff in all of my businesses. You can’t always perform to your best, for one reason or another, I accept that, but to not try, to not give your all, is quite simply unforgivable and I won’t stand for it, from anyone. Our supporters and our commercial partners deserve better. Our history deserves better. Our very existence as a professional football club deserves better. I have my own views on where the problems lie and I will look to put things right, but I would like to thank everyone who has turned out today for their continued support, it means a lot to me personally and to the club as a whole. That only leaves for me to welcome the players, officials and supporters of Scunthorpe United to Meadow Lane this afternoon, I hope that you enjoy the hospitality on offer but face a challenge worthy of the World’s Oldest Football League Club. Onwards and upwards Ray Trew Chairman

On Tuesday the 12th of March 2013, Notts County put in another less than desired performance as they lost 1-0 to Preston North End. The echo's of discontent from fans rained down from the kop stand, as cries for more passion were clearly being heard. Notts now have to prepare themselves for Scunthorpe United who sit in the 20th position, so many fans will again want to see the desire in our play and the players will have to show a level of passion themselves, pride and dedication, just a sign that we can do much better! Scunthorpe come into the game having lost two out of three, although they managed to hold off Stevenage to a 1-0 win prior to the two defeats. They narrowly lost to Coventry City 2-1 on the 9th of March 2013, so they can certainly show character. The return of Dean Leacock will no doubt see interesting changes to the back of the pack, although it would be a shame to cost young Haydn Hollis his place as he been pretty reliable. Jamal Campbell-Ryce and Alan Judge are doubtful to play a part in the game, so we can only speculate that a start is now on the cards for young Curtis Thompson. Brian Laws has confirmed that there are no fresh injury concerns. He is also set to start his recent loan signing Anthony Forde, who joins them on loan from Wolves. Also, this may come as a surprise to some of our fans, Scunthorpe leading goal scorer Karl Hawley is likely to make his return for the away side at Meadow Lane on Saturday. The form of both sides seems very much hit and miss If Notts County can keep their heads high and play free flowing, passing football and work on trying to get on the end of chances then we could very well walk away with the 3 points, I certainly hope the fans can help give them a boost and chant, as no doubt they will, but our support can be the light to the recent results, showing we are behind the club regardless of disappointment. A couple of good showings, improved work rates and possible victories right now would go along way to reward the fans and bring players own morale up, it could also raise interest for next season. Please help us share our work, we 'pride' ourselves on trying to represent the fans. Thank you for taking the time to read and support us! COYP!