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Everything posted by Chris
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Match Discussion: Game 42 - The Stones (H)
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.
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Match Discussion: Game 42 - The Stones (H)
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.
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Match Discussion: Game 41 - The Robins (A)
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.
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Match Discussion: Game 40 - The Iron (H)
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.
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Match Discussion: Game 40 - The Iron (H)
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.
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Match Discussion: Game 39 - The Bees (A)
Notts just needs a touch of magic, but going off the radio it sounds like Barnet are pushing a little closer than we are. 1-1 currently, Wrexham's winning 2-1. It's not a nail in the coffin, but it will make it harder to challenge, unless one of our players can produce a touch of brilliance. I feel a bit mixed, but no so much confident. I know we tend to grab some late goals, but it just feels like Barnet will see this out or claim victory. I just have this feeling!
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The epitome of consistency: Adam Chicksen's key role in Notts County's success
He's been incredible this season, even towards the end of last year I thought he had earned his place in the squad. It seems something has clicked and, it's gone from there. Under Luke Williams, he has done far more than before. I thought he was better going forward and not as effective defensively, but it's more all round this campaign. I am hoping he stays on with us, he's a great asset and player for us.
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Match Discussion: Game 32 - The Spitfires (H)
I thought I would add my prediction for tonight, I actually feel like Notts will score early. With Eastleigh level before the end of the first half, they will probably try to boss us off the ball, but we should be able to find a way to score. I'm going for 2-1, with Ruben opening the score, then later on Chicksen adding a second to win the game. I'll probably be far off, but I don't think we'll run away with it. He might get a start to save someone else for the weekend's game against Barnet.
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Match Discussion: Game 32 - The Spitfires (H)
I remember the time we played Eastleigh in the National League, they made it extremely difficult but Notts didn't really ask many questions. I don't think that opener was one of our best starts and I remember leaving feeling like Notts had to wake up to the type of position. Ironically, I think it's generally the type of team we struggle against. They're quite a tall and physical squad, so we will need to match their intensity. Backing off them will just allow Eastleigh more time to frustrate us. I think we have a good enough squad that will know the warning signs, I just hope they don't clatter some of our defenders. I will say, I think Brooks needs to be protected from the start, as well as Notts did after Dorking's opener. Brooks didn't seem happy with himself, but there were zero things he could've done. Conceding is a huge thing for a young keeper, especially in terms of confidence.
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Match Discussion: Game 38 - Wanderers (H)
Dorking took advantage of the space at the back when Notts pushed forward. I thought the players would've given Brooks a bit more protection with it being his league debut at home. No fault should come to Brooks, he did a very good job when he was needed. When he was on his own, he could not let them get a second. That would've been game over in my opinion, if Dorking has taken a 2-0 lead. People have criticised Jim O'Brien, I can't stand when people single out a player and go to the extreme - it's borderline hateful. He did well to chase back, but unfortunately he wasn't fast enough to predict the way the Dorking player's next move would be. Yes, he could've done better, but my point is, where was our right back and other defenders? I also believe the weather conditions and pitch played part in him slipping, but that's a different subject. Notts played well going forward, with it being 1-0 and the way we pushed back, I felt confident that we would score. When Langstaff pulled us level, that lifted the KOP and things just clicked from there. I believe Matt Palmer had his best game in a Notts shirt, he was pulling all the strings, and it was nice to see him getting forward with a lot more purpose - him getting a goal is the reward for that. Some of his clever passes, repeatedly created chances, and it was almost on par with Ruben's way of breaking the back four. Bitterly cold, but very enjoyable game. I don't know if anyone realised, but I was told before kick off that their keeper was running late and that there might be a 5-minute delay. The player who went in goal, I believe, is their backup, and he's also a cricketer.
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Match Discussion: Game 38 - Wanderers (H)
I don't know what to expect from Dorking. They're the type of team most would think we could cruise past, but they made it difficult at their ground. I think those who believe we have the advantage due to being at home, I think they might be surprised. A lot of fans said the season we were relegated to the National League, that teams will want to cause an upset at Meadow Lane. It would be like their cup day, well with this being on TV - I think it just gives them more motivation than it does us. We just need to try to improve defensively. A clean sheet would be welcomed.
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Match Discussion: Game 36 - The Lillywhites (A)
Just like BT Sports, I believe Luke Williams comments about the title chase being off is just a way to take pressure off us. I'm glad Notts were able to save a point, I can't really comment on their penalties, but the second one they gave wasn't the right decision from the radio. I don't think anyone can be harsh on Tiernan Brooks, I am pleased he's been given his league debut. Quite amusing after the topic started on here as to if he will get game time next season, hopefully he will get game time between now and then and show that he does have potential to be our future number 1. Everyone sounded like they aren't quite up to par with the game, but I did always expect Bromley to make it difficult. Coming back after a defeat away from home, against a good opposition at this level would always be a difficult challenge. Thank god for the Non League Haarland, Langstaff finding the net really saved the day and kept things alive. If anyone watched the Wrexham game, I almost fell asleep. Madienhead wasn't that bad, but Wrexham I could've dozed off! Utterly boring football. Mind Paul Mullin did well with his second goal, as did Madienhead with their two equalisers. Just a shame their keeper is about as good as spring onions are as food.
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Match Discussion: Game 36 - The Lillywhites (A)
It sounds like a very poor decision for the second penalty, unfortunately I didn't have the radio on for the first but its incredibly bizarre that two are given so early into a game. Bromley sound as if they're in control, hopefully we can dig deep and get back into it. Pleased to see Brooks get this debut and for his penalty save. Funnilty @Piethagoram mentioned choosing Brooks due to penalty saves for his 5-a-side team. 1-0 currently to Bromley.
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Match Discussion: Game 36 - The Lillywhites (A)
The thing about Bromley is that they're probably the type of team most would consider to be underdogs in this league, they're a good side who can play some very good football. When they use the channels to create space, they are not afraid to commit bodies and have several players who can hold the ball up. If you watch their last three home games, you'll see that they like to be expressive with their play. There's a real purpose for them to get forward and this could make it different for Notts, as I expect them to press us quite high. Their crossing and set pieces will be something to watch out for, as we always tend to struggle against sides that aren't afraid to whip in a ball. It's going to be close, as I say I can foresee both midfields attempting to control the game. Whoever works harder as they come into the game should take control, yet even if we do manage to take the lead - I would hate for us to settle on a narrow lead because they have goals in them for sure.
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Match Discussion: Game 35 - The Daggers (H)
Yes, he tried to speak with the officials. Who I am told dismissed him, which made him respond with some chosen words which continued into the tunnel.
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Match Discussion: Game 35 - The Daggers (H)
I know we should've had 2 maybe 3 penalties. I can't remember if it was the Chicksen one which I agreed with, the Langstaff was all day long. My memories become a little foggy now, but I recorded the game. I'll re-watch it sometime, but the officials were dire.
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Match Discussion: Game 35 - The Daggers (H)
Frustrating game, I thought we were by far the better team, but unfortunately that doesn't win matches - Notts must stop giving sloppy goals away. I have always felt that it would come back to punish us, that said our unbeaten run felt incredible. Very rarely do I moan about referees, although today's seemed absolutely dire! Honestly, I feel without him, we would've won that game and, I know we had chances which should've been taken - whilst I reflect on the types of goals we conceded. We never seemed likely to cope with the poor officiating, sadly for us, it is one of those games and nothing we can do but regroup. Some have expressed that they felt we deserved four penalties, two were absolute clear. Langstaff being pulled down by the throat, should've been given all day. There's no excuse for missing that, even the assistant referee of that side can say it was hard to see. Notts have now got to show their real character and bounce back, I think it will happen and, I'm not concerned that the games are going to be pointed at - as if this is where we lost the league. For heaven’s sake, we're in a promotion race and the lads will do whatever it takes to keep this the case.
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Match Discussion: Game 35 - The Daggers (H)
It's going to be intresting since they sacked their manager last night, I am not sure what that means for us. I just hope they don't get someone who thinks kicking long balls and being rough will tempoarily fill the managerial gap. They could play some decent football, which is why I am even more surprised Daryl McMahon has been let go. Notts just needs to avoid anything that may slow down the game, keep the ball close and work it into spaces. I am sure we have the creativity to break them down, or even just create good chances. I do think we'll pick up a 2-0 win. 4 more goals would be nice but I honestly feel Dagenham & Redbrdige will make it difficult.
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Independent Football Regulator
The main purposes of the proposed new regulator will be: Stopping English clubs from joining closed-shop competitions, which are judged to harm the domestic game Preventing a repeat of financial failings seen at numerous clubs, notably the collapses of Bury and Macclesfield Introducing a more stringent owners' and directors' test to protect clubs and fans Giving fans power to stop owners changing a club's name, badge and traditional kit colours Ensuring a fair distribution of money filters down the English football pyramid from the Premier League I especially like the outlined points. No English club should be allowed to join any competition which the FA/Clubs don't approve. The financial side needs exploring more. I personally think it will be hard to completely get rid of, so having some kind of fund collected maybe through TV rights or annual fees could go towards building such a fund to provide some kind of security. Vetting owners is a difficult one. It's one thing checking if a potential owner has the money to fund a club - I don't think they factor in what happens if a smaller club grows too quickly without the right backing. Yet someone may have the funds for 3-5 seasons and bankruptcy is another obstacle to navigate. My point is, whatever is done needs to apply common sense and at least factor in the worst case scenario. I am all for giving fans the power to have a say within their club, but I wonder how this would be handled. If you gave season ticket holders a vote, you would make those overseas or otherwise unable to attend to vote disgruntled. Public voting also has the risk of being hi-jacked by nefarious people. If you create a committee or operate it through a fan group, it's not really fair either. Proving to be something with good intentions, but ultimately difficult to apply practically. This for me is the easiest and most practical point, how money filters down the football pyramid. Even to the grass root levels, if we as a nation are to compete with other developed nations - we need to do more in this area to ensure success. There's been striving for at least a decade with the likes of Basford and Anorld Town - yet it doesn't quite filter below. If we're just speaking about 'Football League' I would be disappointed. A percentage should be assigned to funnel down, guaranteeing a certain amount for the lower tier teams. I don't think Championship teams are hard off; it's League One and Two that suffers the most.
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Match Discussion: Game 34 - The Shrimpers (H)
@DangerousSausage Get well, soon DS! Somebody won't want you suffering. Remember, there's always stick to whack people. Or, a bag should be placed around you and then shook up (that was a favourite one). @menzinho It's becoming routine now, isn't it? I usually try to caution myself to say we need to avoid being complacent and while we do, it helps a lot that this squad is fired up right now. Another point I would like to add to your comment, I spoke to @Simon Clark and he put it across that we are pushing Wrexham by winning, whilst they're doing the same for Notts. I think the vast majority of fans feel like the away game against Wrexham will be crucial even though it's right near the end. Provided we keep winning and scoring early, the more pressure which will fall onto Wrexham.
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Match Discussion: Game 34 - The Shrimpers (H)
When speaking @callum2569 on the way to meet @super_pie, we spoke about our predictions and I said that I hoped the lads didn't let us down. Boy was I wrong. I have seen clinical comments about Southend being poor, they weren't - we just stopped them from gaining any sort of goalscoring momentum. I thought 2-0 to us was a realistic call, I didn't think those goals would come within 24 minutes of the first half. Southend actually just got undone by good play. Our first goal was a brilliant piece of play through the middle, for Langstaff to get onto and finish. Whereas Bostocks clever cross, it came from nothing - as did Austin's header. It was superbly timed and as Williams said after the game, doing that is such a brave thing to do. I am very pleased for Austin because he's a workhorse and has deserved a bit of the limelight. I never felt Southend would get back into the game with all due respect; we just made it harder and harder. When we took Langstaff off after his second goal, I was surprised how we continued our passing game. It was almost like a bit of exercise in retaining the ball and avoiding dropping that clean sheet we worked so hard to get. To end with another 4 goals, 12 in our last 3 games - it feels like we're truly battling to keep the top spot.
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Match Discussion: Game 33 - The Glovers (A)
Good result, but another crazy game. Imagine settling for the outcome of a draw, to then see the moment after that - a penalty is awarded. You think this should be enough to see out the game. Oh, no... Langstaff steps up to score two late goals, to continue our six-game undefeated run. Impressive to see Notts take the lead 4 minutes in, plus credit to Yeovil who aren't a bad side. Langstaff is a gem we have wanted for ages, to score a hat trick like this just amazes me. I'm very much looking forward to seeing the goals.
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Match Discussion: Game 21 - The Bees (H)
I didn't think Palmer played bad myself; I got more frustrated with Bostock for losing the ball or playing the rushed pass. I mean, when he played a good ball it worked so well, but he was guilty of doing what Rodrigues tends to do when he decides to go for glory, and by that I mean end up being extremely wasteful. Second half Bostock did seem to get his act together. Adebayo-Rowling for me was just poor, always trying to over do his runs towards being predictable when he was going to cross. Defensively clumsy in the first half too. Baldwin had a shocker, but he did well at times and much better in the second half.
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Match Discussion: Game 21 - The Bees (H)
Oh man, what a crazy game! The referee had moments where he seemed to not know what to do and, others where he invented his own rules. I don't think he was biased towards anyone and, did call things quite fair. Yet, missing the players who went down and not instructing them to get up or seek medical attention just seems wrong to me. I think he knew Barnet was trying it on but he needed to be firmer. The first half wasn't that bad, we had times were chances came but Notts tended to rush them. Their goal, 100% our fault and that needs stamping out of our gameplay. I felt Notts could score, but it was one of those games I felt the opposition had more luck. @menzinho yes, I did worry. I said to the lads, that we needed to bring Jones on and score at least before the 65th minute. If Barnet had scored a second, it would've been goodnight in my opinion. They started to make tactical changes, to inject pace and thankfully we started to get our act together. Once we did score, I always felt we could go into win. 4-1 one is a bit flattering, but at the same time we did well in spells. I thought Barnet played alright, a bit dirty and time wasted at 1-0 and 1-1, it suggests to me they felt their lead/draw would disappear. Their manager should've walked, total clown.
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Match Discussion: Game 21 - The Bees (H)
I can't wait to get back to Meadow Lane tomorrow, with @callum2569 and hopefully, @super_pie. Barnet used to be a bit of a bogey team for Notts, but they're a different team now they're in the National League. They're in decent form though, with wins over some of those harder-to-beat teams, so it's going to be interesting for sure. Personally, I would just keep the movement patient and use Nemane's pace to scare their defence into making mistakes. Control the centre of the park, allow Palmer to choose the tempo as and when it's needed to be changed and Langstaff/Scott should do the rest. Rodrigues also can return now correct? Being at full strength could be another blessing for us.