- Comment on the Richard Montague interview here
- Who should be recruited in January? Read this excellent recruitment doc from member ARLukomski
- PoN member McPie asks have we progressed under Martin Paterson? Join the conversation here.
- PoN member theAnticlough poses a new set of questions about the team, click here.
- Notts confirm Belshaw signing
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Everything posted by PON_News
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100th minute equaliser
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"The Belief Was Always There" – Matty Platt on Notts’ Recent Form
Notts County defender Matty Platt has praised the team’s recent run of form, acknowledging the squad’s belief and resilience as they push for continued success in League Two. The 27-year-old, who joined the Magpies from Bradford City in the summer, has played a key role in the club’s defensive solidity and is eager to maintain momentum. Speaking after the latest match, Platt reflected on the team's outstanding record of eight wins in their last ten fixtures. "Yeah, it's been good, it's been really good," he said. "The form of late has been obviously really good. So yeah, it's been great to be around the place, all the lads are in good spirits as you'd imagine. Just looking to carry on really and go again on Thursday." Notts County's remarkable turnaround came after a disappointing defeat to Salford City, a result that served as a wake-up call for the squad. Platt admitted that the loss forced the players to reassess their performances and refocus on their objectives. "I think it kind of just, looking back, got us all in a headspace of we need to be better than that," he explained. "I think we had a belief that if we all perform to the levels that we can do, this is what we can achieve, the run of form that we've been on. I think at the time there were some home truths spoken and I think everyone has clicked into gear since then and shown what we're really about." A significant factor in Notts County’s success has been their defensive stability, with the team recording 12 clean sheets this season, a tally bettered only by AFC Wimbledon. Platt acknowledged the importance of keeping things tight at the back, stating: "I think at the start of the season we had some goals set for clean sheets and goals against, and stuff. I think we've been pretty good in that department, pretty solid. I've said it before in this league, it's huge. Clean sheets are what you can base success off because I think we've got goals in the team. If we can keep the back door shut, we're always going to have some level of success." Platt's aerial dominance has also been a crucial component of the team’s defensive strength. According to statistics, he ranks in the top 10% of League Two players for aerial duels, an aspect of his game he recognises as vital. "I think in this league you're always going to come up against teams that are going to put it on you. They're going to play long balls up to physical strikers and no matter who you are, you've got to deal with that," he noted. "Obviously aerial duels are huge for that. I think also what we are really good at is winning the second as well. If one of us at the back do win the first header, that's great, but obviously the second ball is just as equally as important." Looking ahead, Notts County face a challenging away fixture against Port Vale, who are unbeaten in League Two this year. Platt acknowledged the difficulty of the task but expressed confidence in his team’s ability. "It's a tough place to go but I think the form we've been in, we're really confident going into the game. If we keep on doing what we're doing, there's no reason why we can't go there and pick up a result," he said. The match will also be televised, an aspect that does not faze Platt. "Yes and no," he said when asked if it still feels special to play in front of a national audience. "I suppose you might get a few more messages after the game or before the game than what you might do usually. But yeah, it's one of those things. As you say, there's so many games that are on TV these days, especially us this year, we've had a lot of half-12 kick-offs on a Saturday. So, yes, I suppose it's nothing new to us." Despite the team’s impressive form, Platt insists that discussions about a potential title push are premature. "No, I think it's one of those. I think at this stage in the season there's so much football left, there's so many points still to play for that it's just the same case as always and just focus on the next game," he stated. "Keep trying to pick up three points and if that means that we put some pressure on Walsall, so be it. But not at this stage, I think it's too early to be thinking about that." With Notts County in excellent form and confidence running high, Platt and his teammates will be looking to extend their impressive run and make a statement against Port Vale. Join the lively discussion on Notts County's away trip to Vale Park as they prepare to take on the in-form Port Vale. Share your thoughts with fellow fans on Pride of Nottingham and be part of the conversation! Easily find the latest content using the Pride of Nottingham dashboard, which gives you a complete view of the site from one place. Stay up to date with all the latest discussions, articles, and fan insights!
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Winning away at Sutton Coldfield Town
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Notts County Await News on Jodi Jones & David McGoldrick Fitness Ahead of Port Vale Clash
Notts County's head coach Stuart Maynard praised his team's recent displays. He highlighted their solid defence and clinical attack as they chase promotion. The Magpies beat Morecambe 2-0 at Meadow Lane after a vital 2-1 away win against Gillingham. With eight victories from their last ten matches, Notts County are one of the division's form teams. Maynard feels their accomplishments stem from players returning from injuries and the squad's steadfast belief. “I think the squad injury list coming down and bodies coming back in recent weeks has made a big difference,” Maynard said. “I think we've performed to a very high level all season. I think we're in really good form, the confidence is high, and there is a real belief within the group, which we have had all year.” While Maynard acknowledges that results have not always reflected performances, he insists his team has deserved more from their losses and draws, barring the defeat to Salford. “If you take away games that we have lost or drawn this year, we have deserved something from them,” he stated. “I know it is easy to say that, but when you watch back and analyse, and you look at the chances we have created within those games and then the chances conceded, I think we deserve something.” Notts County have been very good at stopping the other team from scoring lately. They've managed to keep their goal safe 12 times this season. Maynard thinks this is key to doing well. “I am a massive believer that clean sheets bring you real success,” he said. “We are always going to score goals in the way we play, the way we set up, the way that we try and attack every game to win every game. But defensively, it is a huge credit to the whole group in the way that we have defended.” Maynard applauded his team's dedication. He emphasised their readiness to make physical sacrifices, especially toward the end of the Morecambe match. Although Notts County celebrated a remarkable victory, concerns arose when Jodi Jones had to leave the match prematurely. Maynard mentioned that assessments were underway for Jones and David McGoldrick. “We are still hoping that it is not going to be long-term,” he said. “We will know a bit more in the next couple of days. But I think the lads that came on had a real impact, Charlie Whittaker especially. He scored and was excellent all afternoon. I am really pleased for him, as a youngster to come in and score his first EFL goal – a proud moment for him and his family.” Next up for Notts County is a trip to Vale Park to face Port Vale, who remain unbeaten this year and have lost just twice at home all season. Despite the challenge, Maynard insists his team will approach the game with the same attacking mindset. “We do not look too far ahead,” he explained. “It is all about going to Port Vale now and trying to get three points. Every game we go into, we go in to win. We are a positive-minded management team, and every game we believe we can win.” Maynard admitted Port Vale will offer a difficult challenge; however, he is sure about his squad's capabilities. “The next game, as you are in the run-in now, is always the toughest test,” he said. “Port Vale are up there with us, fighting for promotion. Morecambe are down there fighting for their lives. Everyone is fighting for something in such a tight division.” Notts County wants to make up for losing 1-0 at home to Port Vale earlier this season. They will try hard to play better and get a good result in the next match. Maynard thinks his team should have done better in that game. “We lost 1-0 at home to Port Vale early in the season,” he recalled. “It was a game that we believed, when we watched it back and analysed it, even on the day, that we deserved something from. Whether that was a point or three points, you could argue either way, but we definitely did not deserve to lose that game.” Feeling pretty good and riding on a wave of success, Notts County is all set to keep their winning streak going as they face off against Port Vale. If they can keep up their strong defence and keep pushing forward with determination, Maynard's team will feel confident about winning another important game and grabbing three valuable points. Consider subscribing to one of Pride of Nottingham’s three tiers to help support the site’s growth and cover the costs involved. Share your thoughts on tomorrow’s game in the match discussion as we look to share pre-match thoughts.
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Match Discussion: Game 32 - The Valiants (A)
Game 32 - The Valiants (A) Team: Port Vale Date: 13/02/2025 Where: The Vale What line-up should Stuart Maynard opt for? What will be the key areas for the Magpies to get a victory? What do you think the final score will be? Have your say below, join in with the Pride of Nottingham match discussion.
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Post Match Interview | Barnsley (H) | Adam Dunleavy
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Post Match Interview | Barnsley (H) | Jessie Knott
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Post Match Interview | Emily Brett | Sutton Coldfield Town
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Post Match Interview | Adam Dunleavy | Sutton Coldfield Town
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HIGHLIGHTS | NOTTS COUNTY 2-0 MORECAMBE
- New Signing: Emily Brett
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New Signing: Emily Brett: Adam Dunleavy Reacts
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Eve Shepherd Full Interview
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Pre-Match Interview | Adam Dunleavy | Sutton Coldfield Town & Barnsley
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Match Discussion: Game 31 - The Shrimps (H)
Game 31 - The Shrimps (H) Team: Morecambe Date: 08/02/2025 Where: Meadow Lane What line-up should Stuart Maynard opt for? What will be the key areas for the Magpies to get a victory? What do you think the final score will be? Have your say below, join in with the Pride of Nottingham match discussion.
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Nick Tsaroulla: 'Notts County Fans Made It Unforgettable' After First Goal
Nick Tsaroulla was full of joy after scoring his first goal for Notts County in their hard-fought 2-1 victory over Gillingham. The wing-back, who arrived from Crawley Town in the summer, finally opened his account for the Magpies, helping his side continue their strong form in League Two. Speaking after the game, Tsaroulla expressed his delight at both the team's performance and his long-awaited goal. “Yes, we're all buzzing. It's a tough place to come. So, these are the games that we want to win if we want to reach what we want to reach and climb up,” he said. The win at Priestfield Stadium marked Notts County’s seventh victory in nine games, further solidifying their position near the top of the table. Tsaroulla emphasised the importance of maintaining momentum as the season progresses. “We've got to carry on the momentum, keep going with it and keep performing the way we have,” he added. Notts County’s away form has been particularly impressive, with the team showcasing resilience and grit on the road. Tsaroulla acknowledged the squad's ability to dig deep when playing at challenging venues. “We've got a really strong squad, and we've got a lot of grit. We know how hard it is coming away to teams like this, and we have to dig in and grind it out and do whatever we can to win,” he explained. His goal, which came from a well-worked set-piece, was a moment of personal satisfaction. After a period of near misses, the 25-year-old was relieved to finally find the back of the net. “Yes, finally. It's been a while coming. I could feel it. I could sniff it out. We obviously have our set-piece routine and the ball kind of came to me quite awkwardly. But I did my best to kind of scoop it and get my body right and put it in the net,” he described. The goal was met with a wave of emotion, though Tsaroulla made sure to keep his feelings in check. Unlike his famous tearful reaction after scoring for Crawley against Leeds United in the FA Cup, this time he held back. “That was a special one. This is a special one as well, but for many different reasons. There's no tear. I've had too much banter from my friends for crying on camera, so I've tried not to do that now,” he joked. While Tsaroulla's strike was crucial in setting Notts on their way, veteran forward David McGoldrick also made an impact with a stunning goal. Tsaroulla was full of praise for his teammate. “He's just doing what he does best, isn't it? That's just routine for him. Really unbelievable finish. So, yes, you play with players like that. It's a pleasure,” he said. Despite a nervy ending to the match, Tsaroulla had already been substituted and had to endure watching from the sidelines. He admitted it was a stressful experience. “It was a tough watch. I felt sick watching it. It's a lot easier when you're playing, where you've got more control, and you can influence it,” he said. However, he had faith in his teammates to see out the win. “We've got a big squad and it's times where people need to step up, and we did that, and we got the win.” The victory gives Notts County a valuable opportunity to regroup, with a break in their fixture schedule allowing players to rest and recover. Tsaroulla stressed the importance of keeping standards high during this time. “We've got to keep training hard, keep recovering, looking after ourselves and we know what football is like. We go again, and you're only as good as your last game,” he stated. With his first goal for the club now secured, Tsaroulla will be hoping to build on his performance and contribute further as Notts County continue their promotion push. “This is my first goal for this club, and hopefully it's the first of many,” he said. As the Magpies prepare for their next challenge, the determination within the squad remains strong. With Tsaroulla settling in well and the team hitting their stride, Notts County fans will be optimistic about what lies ahead. Check out the Pride of Nottingham web store to purchase signed prints by Notts County players; just enquire if you're after a specific one! We also have T-shirts and more available. Get involved with Pride of Nottingham, the dedicated fan site for Notts County, where we actively encourage fans to join. Don't miss True Magpie's guide to getting the best experience!
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Post Match Interview | Adam Dunleavy | Peterborough (A)
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Stuart Maynard Hails McGoldrick’s “Infectious” Work Rate After Notts’ Fourth Away Win
Notts County head coach Stuart Maynard has hailed his side’s impressive performance after securing a 2-1 away win over Gillingham at Priestfield Stadium. The victory marks four consecutive away wins for the Magpies, who are in fine form following their 1-0 triumph over Carlisle United earlier in the week. Maynard was full of praise for his squad’s first-half display, highlighting their control after withstanding early pressure from the hosts. “I thought first half we were absolutely outstanding,” Maynard said. “I thought we controlled the game, not from minute one to be fair, but after 10 minutes. They come out really fast, we knew they’d put it on us, we knew we’d have to weather it a little bit. Long balls, balls in the channel, but after that, I think we took control of the total game, and we probably should have been three or four up, and it should have been more of a comfortable win.” Despite Notts County’s dominance, Gillingham responded in the second half, making the final moments tense. Maynard acknowledged the threat posed by the opposition, particularly when a third goal could not be found to seal the game. “They come out in the second half, and they made a fist of it, and they had a go. You always know that if you don’t get the third and put the game to bed, there’s always that slight little worry at the end.” Alassana Jatta and David McGoldrick continued their fine goalscoring form, with McGoldrick’s finish drawing particular admiration from Maynard. “Didzy’s finish though, it’s like Premier League, it’s ridiculous,” he said. “Dink the goalie, the net… you’re just waiting for the net to nestle and it did. And yes, every week he just keeps going again and again and again, showing more quality, more work ethic, and it’s infectious.” McGoldrick and Jatta are now level on 13 goals each, and Maynard believes the duo’s selflessness has been key to Notts County’s attacking success. “They’re both battling it out for the Golden Boot, I think, and they deserve it. Their work ethic together, they’re not selfish—when one’s in, they’ll square it to each other. They just want to win, if I’m being honest. Three points is all that matters.” Alongside their attacking play, Maynard also praised the importance of set pieces, with Nick Tsaroulla’s goal proving decisive. “I’m delighted for Tsaroulla again. It’s another set-piece. It’s something that we want to add to our game, we need to score from set-pieces when games are tight,” he said. “I thought today we created enough chances in open play to probably score enough goals within open play, but when you score from a set-piece it’s brilliant, and it’s another routine that he’s worked on the training ground.” Maynard was also pleased to welcome the return of the club captain following an enforced absence. “He’s just been incredible. To be out for a year with his ACL, to work as incredibly hard as he did… and then to come back, he’s just a machine,” he said. “It’s frustrating that he had to miss a game through the elbow, which when you watch it back, it’s a straight red. But look, he’s back with us, and he was incredible again today.” Charlie Whittaker was given a starting role, and Maynard was impressed by the way he handled the occasion. “I thought it was excellent, everything we required of him,” he said. “We knew that this was going to be a game on a difficult pitch, every time we passed it we needed runners beyond the front. I thought he’d run beyond the front to narrow him up, and, then we got out wide. Jodie Jones kept getting on the ball because of that movement from Charlie.” With seven wins in their last nine games, Notts County’s form is strong, but Maynard insists his players must remain focused. “We’ve just got to keep going now. We can’t get ahead of ourselves; we’ve just got to look to the next game now. This one’s done, it’s another three points, we’ve got to make sure that we recover,” he said. “We’ve got a full week of prep which we need with the schedule that we’ve just had.” The support from the travelling Notts County fans was also acknowledged, especially given the difficult journey many faced. “They’re our 12th man, they’ve been here all season. It’s an open stand here, but you could hear them singing from minute one, getting behind the lads and driving them on to get that big important three points,” Maynard said. “Our fans have been incredible all year and I thank them for all the efforts to get here because it’s not easy to get here.” With momentum on their side, Notts County will now turn their attention to their next home fixture, hoping to continue their strong run under Maynard’s guidance. Notts County have secured the signing of forward Mai Traore, pending visa clearance! Get to know our latest attacking addition and what he brings to the squad. Read more on Pride of Nottingham now! Mai Traore is set to join Notts County, pending visa clearance! Join the discussion on Pride of Nottingham and share your thoughts on our new forward. Will he be the missing piece in our attack?
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Notts County Secure the Signing of Guinean Forward Mai Traore
Notts County have bolstered their attacking options with the signing of Guinean forward Mai Traore from Norwegian side Fredrikstad. The 25-year-old has joined Meadow Lane for an undisclosed fee, pending visa and international clearance. Traore has put pen to paper on a two-and-a-half-year contract, with the club retaining the option to extend his stay by a further year. Known for his pace, power, and eye for goal, the forward brings top-flight experience from Scandinavia, having played over 60 times in Norway’s elite division. Director Richard Montague expressed his delight at securing the highly-rated striker, believing Traore will add a new dimension to Notts County’s attacking play. “Mai is a really exciting addition for us. He’s quick, powerful, and possesses a strong ability both to score goals and create opportunities for his teammates,” Montague said. “He also works incredibly well in a pressing system, his link-up play is strong, and as a left-footed player, he gives us an extra attacking threat. While he has already proved himself in Scandinavia, we believe there’s still plenty more to come from him, and we feel we’re the perfect club to help him reach his full potential.” Traore began his European football journey in Sweden, signing for third-tier side Vasalunds IF at the age of 19. His early performances in their development teams paved the way for a breakthrough 2020 campaign, where he was instrumental in Vasalunds' promotion push, netting an impressive 23 goals and providing eight assists in 29 matches. His remarkable performance caught the attention of top-tier clubs, leading to Viking FK from Norway securing his signature. Traore went on to make 36 top-flight appearances for Viking before being loaned out to Tromsø for the 2023 season, where he continued his development in Norway’s top tier. In January 2023, he made a permanent move to Fredrikstad, and now, just a year later, he is set to embark on the next stage of his career in England with Notts County. His arrival at Meadow Lane provides the Magpies with another attacking option as they push for success in League Two. With his combination of pace, physicality, and finishing ability, supporters will be eager to see how he adapts to the English game. As Traore awaits the finalisation of his paperwork, excitement is already building among the Notts County faithful, who will be hoping their new forward can make an immediate impact. Stay up to date with all things Notts County by creating an account on Pride of Nottingham and becoming an active part of our thriving fan community! Join the discussion on Mai Traore’s signing over on Pride of Nottingham – share your thoughts and let us know what you think of the new addition!
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HIGHLIGHTS | GILLINGHAM 1-2 NOTTS COUNTY
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Match Report: Nick Tsaroulla and David McGoldrick on Target as Notts Beat Gillingham
Notts County secured a battling 2-1 victory over Gillingham at Priestfield Stadium, extending their impressive start to the League Two campaign. First-half goals from Nick Tsaroulla and David McGoldrick gave the Magpies a commanding lead, but a late strike from Joseph Gbode set up a tense finish. The visitors controlled possession with 56% but had to weather periods of pressure from Gillingham, who registered four shots on target compared to Notts County’s three. In a feisty contest, both sides racked up the fouls, with the Magpies committing 11 and receiving four yellow cards, while Gillingham were penalised 13 times and had five players booked. Stuart Maynard’s side came out with attacking intent, and their early pressure paid off in the 12th minute. Jodi Jones, a constant threat down the wing, delivered a pinpoint cross that found Nick Tsaroulla, who expertly steered placed the ball past Glenn Morris to give Notts the lead. The visitors continued to push forward, forcing Gillingham into some last-ditch defending. Just before the half-hour mark, McGoldrick doubled the advantage. The experienced forward took advantage of a defensive mistake, scoring from close range after a good play by Matt Palmer and Charlie Whitaker. Gillingham struggled to break down a resolute Notts defence in the first half, with their best effort coming from Asher Agbinone, whose long-range strike was comfortably saved by Alex Bass. Neil Harris made a change at the break, bringing on Joseph Gbode to add more attacking impetus. The Gills came out with greater intensity, and Armani Little tested Bass with a powerful effort from distance in the 62nd minute. Notts made substitutions of their own, with Kellan Gordon and Curtis Edwards introduced to freshen up the midfield, while William Jarvis replaced Jones. Despite their control of possession, Notts were given a scare in the 80th minute when Gillingham pulled a goal back. Little whipped in a dangerous corner, and Gbode rose highest to guide a header into the bottom corner, setting up a nervy final 10 minutes. Gillingham pushed for an equaliser, with Sam Gale’s late header forcing a save from Bass, but Notts held firm. The visitors had a couple of opportunities to kill the game off, with McGoldrick seeing a shot blocked and Matty Platt heading narrowly over from a corner. The final whistle sparked celebrations among the travelling Notts fans, who saw their side withstand a spirited second-half display from Gillingham. The Magpies’ ability to take their chances proved the difference, as they made it back-to-back league victories. With another three points secured, Stuart Maynard’s men continue their push at the top end of League Two, showing resilience alongside their attacking quality. Have your say! Join the Pride of Nottingham match discussion and share your thoughts on Notts’ 2-1 win over Gillingham! See what other fans think too. Who was your standout player? Vote and comment on who deserves to be Pride of Nottingham’s Man of the Match for today’s win against Gillingham!
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Pre Match Interview | Ash Hind | Peterborough United (A)
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Pre Match Interview | Harry McLean| Peterborough United (A)
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Jacob Bedeau Praises Notts County’s Defence and the Fans’ Role in Home Dominance
Notts County defender Jacob Bedeau has highlighted the team’s defensive improvement this season, crediting the collective effort from the squad in maintaining their impressive form at the back. Since arriving at Meadow Lane in the summer after leaving Morecambe, the 25-year-old has become a key part of Stuart Maynard’s side, forming a strong partnership with Matty Platt and helping to protect goalkeeper Alex Bass. Reflecting on the team’s defensive performances, Bedeau acknowledged a strong start, followed by a period where standards slipped slightly, before regaining solidity in recent weeks. "We've been really tight at the back, we started the season well as a defence. I think it was a little bit in the middle where we conceded a few more goals than we probably would have liked. But it's good to be back to that kind of solid defensive shape," Bedeau said. Last season, Notts County struggled defensively, conceding more goals than they would have liked. However, a summer of recruitment, including Bedeau’s arrival, has helped transform the team into one of the strongest defensive units in the division. He emphasised that it has been a team-wide effort rather than just down to the new additions. "I think obviously after last year there's a big emphasis on, as a team, probably defending better than we did last year. So I think everyone carries that burden. It's not just the players that have been signed. I think if you look through the team, everyone works so hard defensively, right up to AJ at the top of the pitch who works his socks off chasing and pressing, which really enables us to be able to defend a lot easier." Notts County have been particularly resolute at home, conceding just eight goals at Meadow Lane this season, the best record in the division. Bedeau believes the club’s home form is heavily influenced by the fans and the atmosphere they create. "You know, probably the fans. I think it's such a tough place to come for opposing teams, especially when they're really behind us and supporting us. It feels like a fortress almost," he said. "And I think we've been unlucky to not have won more games at home. I think we've drawn quite a few, and we had a couple of losses early in the season. And if you look back at those games, there's a few contentious calls that could have gone our way and even the Bromley game at the weekend, I think it was their only real chance that they scored from." Despite his strong defensive displays, Bedeau is still searching for his first goal for the club, something his teammates have been quick to remind him about. "I know, I know. Hopefully it's coming. I get a bit of stick from some of the lads because obviously Platty's got a few. Even Rod nearly scored the other day as well. I am desperate for a goal, but at the same time as long as we're winning and clean sheets, that's the most important thing for me." Notts County have won six of their last eight matches, a run of form that has put them into the automatic promotion places. Bedeau has been enjoying his football at the club and believes the team’s style of play makes every game exciting. "Yes, I think even from playing against Notts last year, you can see that the style of play is enjoyable to be a part of. You go into games really looking forward to playing, whereas at times at other clubs you might be like, it might be a bit of a slog today. But here it's really enjoyable, really fun. The players I get to play with are top level. So yeah, I've just really enjoyed my time here." Looking ahead, Notts County face a busy fixture schedule, with a mix of league and cup matches coming up. Bedeau, however, insists that the packed calendar does not faze the squad. "Not really. I think at this stage of the season, you know the games are going to come thick and fast and all you want to do is pick up results. You don't even think about the days you're playing to be honest. You just want to get the games done and take the three points and see where you are come the end of the season." One of the upcoming fixtures sees Notts County face Bedeau’s former club Morecambe, who are currently struggling in League Two. While he wishes his old side well, he is fully focused on securing a win when they meet. "Yeah, do you know, I've got a lot of love for the club. They gave me a lot while I was there. So obviously, I hope they get out of the situation they're in. And with Derek Adams at the helm, there's a good chance because he knows this division, and he knows how to get out of sticky situations really. I wish them all the best but obviously when we play them here in a couple of weeks, hopefully we get the three points." Notts County’s recent form has put them in contention for promotion, but Bedeau is not getting carried away just yet. "Not really, no. I think you just have to focus on yourself because there's so many teams in and around it. And if you look at years gone, you look at Walsall last year who made a run at the end, Doncaster as well last year. So teams can come from anywhere and almost oust you. So you just have to keep on top of what you're doing. And then maybe when there's five games to go, maybe you'll have a look down and say, right, what do we need to be where we want to be? So I think it's just all about picking up the points we need at the moment to get where we want to get to." Promotion has been the goal since the start of the season, and Bedeau confirmed that the squad is fully committed to achieving that aim. "Yes, I think when we came in the summer on the first day, in the first meeting, the gaffer set out what our aim was for the season. So, we're not shying away from that. It's what we want, and I think as a group of players everyone has come to this club to achieve that. So obviously we know what we need to do, what we want to do, but at the same time we just take it game by game, and hopefully we'll achieve our goal." With a strong defence, growing momentum, and a clear objective in mind, Bedeau and Notts County are well on their way to making their promotion ambitions a reality. Curtis Edwards shares his thoughts on Notts County’s hard-fought win over Carlisle United and the fans’ incredible support on his return to the starting XI. Read the full interview now on Pride of Nottingham! Join the match discussion on Pride of Nottingham ahead of tomorrow’s clash with Gillingham - see what fellow fans are saying and share your own thoughts!
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Curtis Edwards Humbled by Notts County Fans’ Reception in Return from Injury
Curtis Edwards made his long-awaited return to action as Notts County secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Carlisle United. The 31-year-old midfielder, who had been sidelined since September with an ankle injury, came off the bench to help his side see out the win. Speaking after the game, Edwards expressed his delight at being back on the pitch and contributing to a crucial victory. "Yeah, obviously, like you say, best game of a bit longer period in a long time," Edwards said. "So 1-0 up, it's nice to come in and show some energy and try and help the lads see out the win, which we did, so it's very pleasing." His return comes after a difficult spell on the sidelines, with Edwards missing over four months of action. During his recovery, he spent time alongside fellow injured teammates Jodi Jones and Conor Grant, both of whom also recently returned to the squad. "Yeah obviously three to four months, I think I was a bit longer than them two," Edwards explained. "They've been back three, four weeks now, so I'm just getting up to speed. It'll take a few more games to get more minutes, but I'm feeling good." The match itself was a tense affair, with Notts County taking an early lead before Carlisle applied increasing pressure in the second half. Edwards admitted it was a challenge to step in and match the intensity of the game. "Yeah, it's tough. Always coming into a match takes a lot to get up to the speed, so that's why you just have to try and come in and work as hard as you can, which we all try and do," he said. "Especially that tempo game, Carlisle made it difficult second half, but it was good that we got the win." Despite spending a relatively short time at Meadow Lane since joining Notts County, Edwards has already become a favourite among the fans. Their support was evident when he was introduced from the bench, something the midfielder was keen to acknowledge. "Yeah, first of all I just want to thank the fans," he said. "Like you say, I've been here a short period, but the support they've given has been amazing. I think you heard it tonight, so that's pleasing." The final minutes of the match saw Notts County under heavy pressure, with Carlisle dominating possession. The Magpies had opportunities to extend their lead on the counter but ultimately had to rely on their defensive resilience to secure all three points. "Yeah, it would have been nice to get the second," Edwards admitted. "Obviously a few chances in the first half as well. Hopefully in the next games we can come in with a better lead, but like you say, see if we can make something of the counters in the next games." With 19 league matches remaining, Notts County now sit third in the League Two table. However, Edwards insists the squad is not getting ahead of themselves. "Yeah, a lot of football," he said. "I think we just need to stop looking at the table, it's so tight. We just need to focus on the next game and keep performing the way we have, keep trying to pick up as many points as we can, and then see where we end up." As Edwards continues to build match fitness, his return comes at a vital time for Notts County’s promotion push. With his experience and versatility in midfield, he could play a key role in the club’s ambitions for the remainder of the season. Join the match discussion on Pride of Nottingham ahead of tomorrow's game against Gillingham! Share your thoughts on Stuart Maynard’s tactics or simply your predictions for the match. Pride of Nottingham recognises the recent dip in content and social media activity, and we truly appreciate the community’s patience. If you are able to, please consider subscribing to help support the site’s running costs as every bit helps us keep going!