Chris

I was full of emotion yesterday, seeing the Notts stands full of happy people it's what makes supporting the club that extra bit special. Mind, not everyone was happy! It was particularly exhilarating to witness every time Boreham Wood scored a goal. It became quite tense, but whilst taking pictures at half-time I decided to encourage those I spoke with. I had the faith that we could pull it back and the key was the early goal. My heart really went out to Aden Baldwin. He received a lot of harsh comments about his playing, but to be fair, that pass to him was bound to cause problems. I felt Notts needed to slow down their passing at times, not by a great amount but enough so that they could take their time a little more. Issue with this, many fans just yell to get the ball forward without thinking about what space the players have and when they do rush, further complaints are shouted. I felt like we just didn't know what to do at times; it was a complication of our own fault that led to Boreham Wood putting pressure on Notts. The second half was expected to be better when we attacked towards the KOP end. I hope that Luke Williams is proud of the incredible response from the fans who stayed positive and didn't leave even after the second goal.I get that sometimes frustration means people will say silly things, but it's hardly encouraging when there's people shouting f this and all sorts of nonsense at the players. Funnily, the most near me didn't seem to know much about Notts and seemed like the type of person who came just for the big game. I appreciate their presence, but there is absolutely no reason for them to be rude as it can ruin the ambiance, particularly when seated close to families with little kids. Jodi Jones played amazingly well, I wasn't sure about why Matt Palmer got the Man of the Match. I felt there were a few better options ahead of him, but he sometimes doesn't get the praise when he does deserve it. Kyle Cameron needs to be more careful on the ball I feel, so many people expressed that they feel he's a reliable to me, but he can be a vital asset when he's in the zone. Sam Slocombe deserves a lot of praise; he made some outstanding saves and Notts could've sunk within the first half further if it wasn't for him. Aden Baldwin may have had a few wobbles, but he was by far my Man of the Match. And yes, I genuinely felt that at 2-0 the game wasn't over and thankfully in the second half we got the response I had hoped for and mentioned to those I spoke with at half-time. I couldn't stop shaking until almost midnight. I felt ill, and part of it might be because I got a concussion when two fans accidentally hit me. Yet, I do feel the occasion and raw emotions got the best out of me.

A remarkable turnabout was always within reach. I know people thought I were deluded for suggesting it or questioned my faith, but I always felt that an early goal would give us that spark. I couldn't stop shaking after the game. I also still feel slightly concussed after being hit in the head twice by accident, but it's worth every moment. Our fans were class from pre-match to the moments after the final whistle, so pleased for us all that we're going to Wembley.

My personal thoughts that the league and previous games go out of the window when it comes to the playoffs, usually the winner simply wants to win more than the other. Sometimes it's because of other factors, but generally I think it's all about coping with the game and settling nerves as quickly as possible. If our players enjoy their football, chances should come, and I think it will be a good game.

Boreham Wood will be physical, if anyone caught their game against Barnet - you will know what to expect. They're very dirty and sly at times, but when they're focusing on the actual football. You can't give them any space near to your own penalty box because they know how to punish teams. It's important Notts starts the game off with a patient approach to passing. I would instruct the players to get a feel for Boreham Wood, make them run around a bit at least for the first 20 minutes. If players like Arron Nemane, Adam Chicksen, Sam Austin, or Ruben Rodrigues can find openings to score or assist, it could calm everyone's nerves. I want to see the players fired up, but focused on winning the ball back as soon as possible. I like what Luke Willaims has said in his message during the press conference. He's right about singing and creating a special atmosphere, encouraging us to sing to chants to each of the players. It would be something that would ease our own nerves, as the party type spirit can lift and make you forget about how important the game is. We must demonstrate our belief in the team by promoting them back to the Football League this season. Keep in mind that during our League Cup match against Liverpool, many expressed negative opinions about our chances due to our position in League One. I was one of the first few fans to start signing and I noticed how that lifted the players nerves. There was a very small group of us, maybe 6-7 but by time we had scored one back. It seemed a totally different game and it was such an amazing feeling. We need this on Sunday, but the players need to be brave in defending and smart when it comes to pressing. If we can reduce any potential mistakes and just focus on playing football in a controlling narrative, it will see chances come for us.

I don't want the club to believe that York City has nothing to play for. Beating a successful team should be enough motivation. Beating a team that's taken 2nd place, with points, goals, and our stadium size as added motivation, is something any team would aim for to end their season successfully. Whilst on paper the game should be quite straight forward, last games of the season do tend to spring a surprise or a shock. I want to see our defence play much more aware, working as a team to stop any danger and to protect the keeper (whoever that may be) from being required. It would be nice to think Matt Palmer and John Bostock can run the show in midfield, allowing the creative wide players to truly bring the game to York. I think Jodi Jones would prove to be a handful against them, likewise with Arron Nemane's habit of getting in behind the players. If Adam Chicksen starts, how can we make room for Jodi Jones? I would be tempted to give Chicks another rest, at least from the beginning of the game. He'll be vital for the home playoff tie, which would leave him plenty of time to train, rest and get back to his best. I suspect Macaulay Langstaff will return up front, despite me wishing Cedwyn Scott got a few more starts than he has done. I do fully expect York City to be one of the better teams we have faced at home, simply because of how their season has panned out and how they will want to send their fans home happy.

Well, I wasn't sure I expected that result, and it's interesting to read the comments shared by @menzinho. Matt Palmer's work in football often goes unnoticed: he presses the opposing teams, sets the pace, and handles mistakes productively to get the ball moving forward. I used Google to check in and saw that Cedwyn Scott had scored - that should be great for his confidence. I left the page on and noticed the 2nd, I thought the third was scored by Connell Rawlinson has seen a great with his face on whilst browsing Facebook. No idea if that actually happened, if I dreamt it or if it was something to do with one of those overseas supporter groups. The final result is great, the two goals they scored would leave a few questions for Luke Williams. Yet as Menzinho expressed, if we have someone deep like John Bostock it should be fine. Ftank Vincent is clearly more attacking minded, I know when he joined he said he can do the defensive side of the game, but he's by far better in attacking plays.

I am in agreement with every comment before mine. @Joshua's point about shining a light is valid. Although Wrexham fans and others may believe that the pressure is on us, if we concentrate on the positives and strive for promotion, I don't think the expectations will only be on us, but also on those we compete against.

Just a joy to see the players expressing them, despite what looked like an absoultely awful pitch. I praise Luke Williams for provoking this reaction from the team and, I encourage all of them to continue this. Winning 5-2 is awesome, but we have 2 very big games coming, we must make it a 3rd and win at Wembley.

@super_ram Charlie Palmer was a defender, so he would've been ruled out at the very beginning. Having written about Jeff Astle, if it wasn't for the year of birth I would've said it was him, Mick Vinter too, but ruled out for the same reason as Astle. Lawrie Dudfield is also ruled out. I'm not sure how many clubs or fans would call him a legend though. I thought he was a good player, mind.

I believe so, as well @Fozzy. I think the issue with plastic artificial grass is that it can slow the ball down, whilst making it more effort to play on. It's not something I think this squad will worry about, although there does become that risk of it causing injuries. If Notts can pass the ball around, whilst waiting the game to open up and then hit them with that aggressive free flowing passing that we usually see in the second half at Meadow Lane, I can see it being a decent trip for us. Aaron Nemane should find plenty of space at the back to put in those crosses he likes to make, provided he starts. I thought he made a real impact coming off the bench against Woking, he also seemed a bit more focused on defending which was nice. I am hoping Langstaff can get another, I know how desperately he wants to hit 50 goals in a Notts shirt. Which is very unlikely to be made in the last two games, but there's a chance if we include the playoffs. It would also be nice to see Sam Austin continue his form, dropping him for the bench right now would seem like a waste when he's on fire.

I know, we'll look back on the defeats and think those are the games which could've won the league - yet nobody could imagine how dominant ourselves or Wrexham would be. It appears that our prior setbacks gave Notts an extra push to succeed. We had a stretch where our play seemed overthought during away games, causing us to struggle. This season has been incredible. If you're to gain promotion you want to be gaining records and causing pressure to your rivals. I think both clubs have benefitted from the close competition. I felt a little unsure leading into the season, until I saw the Alfreton game. I then posted my thoughts about how I felt we would do, I wasn't far off, but I had predicted that we would fall back around Christmas. The Notts players did their utmost to keep it going for much longer than that and even now, they're doing the unthinkable. I feel quite positive about the playoffs, although that's me in a nutshell. I always try to see the bright side!

These type of games do tend to be difficult, just as it was against Wrexham. Woking had pressure with the fact that Chesterfield could and did go above them as a result of them losing and Eastleigh failing to make a 2-0 lead count against the Spiriates. The first half wasn't pretty for either teams, but I thought Notts moved the ball around nicely at times. I know there are a lot of expectations for the players to play swift, fast-paced attacking play but that style only works when you're comfortable on the ball. No one should expect the players to dominate a team that is clearly at a lower level, especially when both teams are still trying to figure each other out. Possession was a challenge for Woking as they struggled to hold onto the ball. However, our players effectively regained control in a noteworthy manner. The issue for Notts was that in the first half, the majority of crosses wasn't great, and it seemed more a case of hit and hope. That lack of quality from the out wide spaces, with Jodi Jones only being the exception, caused Woking some real trouble. We should've moved the ball through the centre of the park, as there would've been more space at times. They made it hard for Notts to find space, hence why we ended up going backwards a lot of the time. I had the feeling that Sam Slocombe probably shouldn't have started, his kicking wasn't his usual standard, but he did fine otherwise. Second half Notts grew into it more, Woking started to slow their game down and then the space became more visible. Notts picked up the tempo, causing the chances to become more fluid. We do rely on the channels to create chances and, with the play being more open, it allowed Adam Chciksen to pick out Matt Palmer. The pass to Sam Austin for the opening goal was a lovely move and that gave us the confidence to wrap up the game. 3-0 and a clean sheet, the first half should be forgotten and not dwelled on. It's important to maintain high standards, but it's equally important to balance things out when you're preparing for a final promotion push. I mean, the fact Wrexham has more pressure not to slip up in their final two games, it's crazy.

@DangerousSausage How do you know there is a universe where you are that clever? ????????

Woking will want to win, I think they'll start bright and make it hard. I am hoping we do make a few changes, nothing over the top but just sensible changes. I'd choose Jodi Jones over Arron Nemane and figure out an alternative for Adam Chicksen, like bringing in Kyle Cameron or giving Frank Vincent a shot instead. He needs time; a break would do him wonders. Adam also knows there's limited competition, so it's a difficult thing for Luke Williams to manage that type of situation. For the record, I don't think he's himself for a few games, but he's still a very important player and starting against Woking isn't remotely as important as getting him back ready for the playoffs. I think allowing Ruben Rodrigues to sit on the bench and give Cadwyn Scott or Junior Mendes the start should also be considered. The rest of the team writes itself, Matt Palmer is the heartbeat in midfield and John Bostock works well with him. To conquer Woking, we must exploit their defenders' vulnerabilities by flanking them. However, including Nemane in the game might not benefit us unless he enhances his defence capabilities.

I don't think there can be multiple versions of me living out different lives, such as being a professional athlete or a renowned poet. Maybe even something else, like living with a different family. It just becomes too far from a stretch for me. That said, I understand why it's interesting and why people will debate it. Yet, it's unlikely that proof will ever be had, this discussion reminds me of one of my favourite YouTube channels called "The Why Files". Both videos related to this subject, but the first is the one which explains things about the multiverse.

Wrexham can't sustain their current pressure and pace, so we must be mindful of our passes and avoid rushing when a Wrexham player is near. Paul Mullin just dived trying to claim a penalty, BT Sports claimed it was a clear decision in favour of Wrexham but all Kyle Cameron did was reach. Minimal contact, yet Mullin had already started to go backwards before being touched. Ollie Palmer going down by the slightest touch from Matt Palmer minutes before Mullin did in the penalty box shows Wrexham's antics. I would personally welcome seeing more patient passing from Notts, just give tidy touches and make space. Frustrate them a little and just see how things open up, instead of just losing the ball. Wrexham are defending quite okay so far. We look a little nervous at the back but are doing fine as of now.

In our home game against Wrexham, Notts put pressure on them from the start to finish. They gave us a lot more time on the ball than I expect them to do today, whilst I think they'll focus on the counter and set pieces. I do think they'll aim to retain the ball a lot more and just be patient with moving it forward. This is something Notts does quite well themselves. We need to make sure that defensively the keeper, whoever this may be, is protected and that any possible chance is blocked effectively. I don't feel as nervous about the game, I believe 100% in this set of Notts players and, whatever the outcome, I am extremely proud of them. If things go right for us, then we'll see incredible scenes. I hope that all the fans who managed to get tickets, go and enjoy the day. Make us proud, back the lads vocally for 90% and a BIG YOUUUU PIIIEEESSS!

It's going to be a tough game for both teams, I feel. I can see Wrexham wanting to take the game to Notts, I can't see them allowing us much freedom on their home soil. If they press Notts, we need to make sure we don't allow them too much space, it's important that we force them to be more defensive than ourselves. It's a game where we could ideally do with Sam Slocombe's experience. I am sure Archie Mair or Tiernan Brooks will do just fine, it would just be a blessing to go back to full strength in the goalkeeper department. I don't expect Sam to make his return, but so I do expect Archie to start. He's grown in confidence and I hope he enjoys the occasion. With it being live on BT Sports, there will be pressure through the two squads. We just need to play our best game and hopefully get the result needed to maintain the top spot.

I don't think I can write a single commentary word about Wealdstone, they're quite clearly punching above their weight and looked extremely boring to watch. They really didn't turn up and, I honestly expected better from them. Defensively, they were all over the place and instead of clearing the danger they would just put the ball out to the nearest possible point. This doesn't remove pressure; it asserts it and gives the team you're playing more time to pressure you. Notts could've had at least 5 goals in the first half and, I think I may have one slightly backhanded comment for them. Sam Howes pulled off a couple of fantastic saves, yet his whole attitude stunk and quite early on - I shouted "Alright, Joe Hart. Calm down." He was probably the best part of their performance as otherwise they looked like a team in the Sunday league. Our pressure and ball retrieval were relentless. The other team was so clumsy in possession that even Maculay Langstaff managed to steal the ball for our first goal. Sam Austin deserved and executed the goal brilliantly. He could've had a second not long after if it wasn't for Howes saving the effort. Wealdstone are clearly doing something right to be where they are in the league and, I hoped I would see a glimmer of that. Perhaps they're just in a spell of poor form? I don't know about that, but they were rubbish from start to finish, and I feel they're one of the poorest teams we've played at home. A lot worse than Southend, Scunthorpe United or Maidstone United combined. My man of the match would've been Jodi Jones or maybe Matt Palmer.

I can't wait for this game; it should hopefully set up the Wrexham game nicely. Imagine if Halifax manage to cause an upset, and we pick up a win, to bridge back some of that gap between us and Wrexham. If it happened, it would make the Easter Monday game all the more entertaining. We can wish and hope for this to happen. I hope this game will be quite normal, if we pass the ball around and do not have to change halves at the start, we will have a good attacking game in the second half.

They're flaky as a team, but I think perform better at home, which you would expect. They've only won two of their last five games, which the rest were defeats. Southend and York are the two teams they beat, plus they can score goals which may put pressure on us depending on who starts in goal. I must admit, I like Brooks and feel nervous viewing Mair - yet we can protect whoever starts by ensuring we are defensively setup, without limiting ourselves going forward. It just means some players must stay back, then the rest need to regroup as quickly as possible. We're relying on the key players as a team right now, even though we're performing okay as a squad. Away from home we haven't quite been the same since we lost our second game a few weeks back, so it's time to get the away form back on and to keep the pressure on Wrexham. 2nd place, is a great achievement, so many successful sspects each of the players and club can take away.

I think we all gave Scunthorpe United too much credit; they were woeful. I mean, they never trouble Slocombe bar the dangerous high foot that injured him. They most certainly never caused any sort of problem for Mair, which is either a sign of how well we played or, how dire and woeful Scunthorpe were. They looked empty, even Shields, who I like from his time here, looked like a shadow of himself. Although, unlike others, he actually tried a lot more and did put in effort. From the Notts perspective, it was just very routine and straight forward. There wasn't much of an issue for our defence, no real threat and everything was like a stroll on a Sunday morning. Ironically, they defended quite well at times but having 11 players try to stop a side that's already 2-0 up isn't going to end any better. We could've easily won 5-0, if not more. To say, we were concerned about the level of fitness and who would be available - it shows that we really hadn't worried. I am hearing that their fans started ripping seats out of the Jimmy Sirrel stand, not the behaviour you would expect. It's quite disrespectful, if they want to take their anger out of someone, they should look at their club first. My man of the match would've been Rodrigues. I said this before half-time to @callum2569. He played very well, communicating with the players and trying to lift them - whilst he actually passed the ball in positions where he perhaps should've shot himself. It was just a superb performance. Langstaff did brilliantly, as did Jim O'Brien. Those three were head and shoulders above the rest of the squad for me, however it was a brilliant team performance and nobody rested or had a day off.

We can't expect Scunthorpe United to lay over for us, I simply don't believe that will happen. Scoring an early goal would be something I feel would lift Notts, provided we didn't sit back and try to absorb the game. We tend to invite teams back into the game when we do this, Notts just needs to approach the game with the mindset that if we create chances - someone will put them away. It's going to be interesting to see who plays in goal, could Brooks do what Carroll did a few years back? I think they'll try to make it difficult and despite their troubles, they will keep Notts on their toes.