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Notts County's League Cup journey ended in heart-wrenching fashion as they were knocked out by Shrewsbury Town in a 4-3 penalty shoot-out following a gripping 3-3 draw after 90 minutes. The Magpies showed great determination and spirit, but ultimately, it was the home side that held their nerve in the penalties, leaving County fans wondering what might have been. The match kicked off with Notts County asserting their dominance early on. Within just four minutes, Conor Grant capitalised on a perfectly delivered cross from Jodi Jones to head home from close range, giving the Magpies a dream start. This early strike set the tone for a first half in which Notts County were in control, showcasing their attacking intent and technical superiority. Their dominance was further reflected in the possession stats, with Notts County enjoying 59.7% of the ball compared to Shrewsbury's 40.3%. County's pressing and ball retention were key features of the first half, and they were rewarded again in the 23rd minute when Sam Austin doubled the visitors' lead. David McGoldrick played a crucial role in the build-up, providing the assist for Austin, who finished clinically into the bottom corner, giving Shrewsbury's goalkeeper no chance. As the first half drew to a close, Notts County looked to be cruising, with their defence largely untroubled by Shrewsbury’s sporadic attacks. However, the second half saw a resurgent Shrewsbury Town side come out with renewed vigour. The home team knew they had to change the tempo of the game, and that they did, mounting pressure on Notts County's backline. In the 68th minute, the pressure told. Joshua Kayode latched onto a loose ball inside the box and managed to squeeze his shot past the goalkeeper from a difficult angle, reducing the deficit to 2-1. The goal ignited the home crowd and lifted Shrewsbury, who suddenly looked the more likely to score. Just three minutes later, they found an equaliser. Jordan Shipley, who had been a threat throughout, rose highest to nod in a cross from Tommi O'Reilly, levelling the score at 2-2. The momentum had shifted dramatically, and Shrewsbury capitalised further in the 84th minute when Shipley scored his second of the match. This time, it was a well-placed header into the bottom corner following a cross from Jordan Rossiter, leaving Notts County reeling as they saw their two-goal lead evaporate. However, Notts County showed resilience and refused to be beaten. With just a minute of normal time remaining, Alassana Jatta met Dan Crowley’s corner with a powerful header to make it 3-3, sending the game to penalties. During the intense shoot-out, Notts County was faced with a gruelling test of their nerves. Dan Crowley, Cedwyn Scott, and Alassana Jatta all converted their penalties, but the turning point came when David McGoldrick's effort sailed just over the bar, followed by Curtis Edwards’ penalty being saved by the Shrewsbury goalkeeper. Despite their best efforts, Notts were ultimately undone by the precision of Shrewsbury’s Malvind Benning, who converted the decisive penalty to win the tie 4-3 on penalties. The statistics tell a story of what could have been for Notts County. They registered 12 shots compared to Shrewsbury’s 7, but only three of these were on target. Shrewsbury, on the other hand, made the most of their opportunities, with five of their seven shots forcing a save. Notts County also had the upper hand in corners, winning eight to Shrewsbury’s five, and they dominated possession. However, they lacked the clinical edge needed in front of goal. The Magpies' discipline was also on display, committing just five fouls and receiving only one yellow card, compared to Shrewsbury's 13 fouls and two bookings. Despite these positives, the result was a bitter pill to swallow. As the final whistle blew, Notts County could only reflect on a match that slipped away in dramatic fashion. Their time in the League Cup may be over, but the determination and fight they showed will give fans hope for the rest of the season. The focus now turns back to the league, where the Magpies will look to bounce back from this disappointing exit. Read what the Pride of Nottingham community is saying with our Match Discussion, both pre-and-post match opinions and be sure to share your own thoughts. Notts County Women's team have bolstered their squad with two signings. Read more on this development on Pride of Nottingham and be sure to show your support to them!

Notts County Women have bolstered their squad ahead of the 2024/25 season with the signings of winger Rhea Bailey and midfielder Leah Hardy, two players expected to make a significant impact in the FA Women’s National League. Rhea Bailey returns to England after a successful four-year stint in the United States, where she played college football for Emporia State University. During her time in the U.S., Bailey was a key player in her team’s Division Two College Championship win, adding another achievement to her already impressive footballing résumé. Prior to her American venture, Bailey played for Leicester City and Coventry United, making her a seasoned addition to the Notts County roster. Bailey expressed her enthusiasm about her return to England and joining Notts County: “It feels really good to be at the club. I’m excited to get playing again in England and help the team rebuild to where they were at in the past. The warm welcome I received from the girls during training made me realize that this was the team I wanted to be part of—they made it feel like a family. I’m eager to contribute by scoring goals, providing assists, and giving my best to help the team succeed.” Notts County Women’s manager, Adam Dunleavy, highlighted the significance of Bailey’s signing, noting her versatility and the positive energy she brings to the team: "There is no surprise that Rhea had offers from Tier 3 clubs on her return from the States. She’s brought an infectious energy to the squad and has been a real live wire during pre-season. We believe she will add pace and quality to our wide areas, and her ability to adapt to different roles on the pitch is invaluable." Meanwhile, Leah Hardy arrives at Notts County from Lincoln City, another FA Women’s National League Division One Midlands side. Hardy, an attacking midfielder, made a name for herself by scoring five goals last season, following an even more impressive 2021/22 campaign where she found the net 24 times in 31 appearances. Her consistent performance and goal-scoring ability make her a valuable asset for the Notts County line-up. Hardy cited the club’s ambition and passionate fanbase as key reasons for her decision to join: “It's a fantastic feeling to join a club with such a good history. I chose Notts because of the club's ambition and the passionate fanbase. The project here is something I want to be part of. I'm excited to be here and can't wait to get started." Dunleavy praised Hardy’s work ethic and her potential to enhance the team’s performance in the coming season: "We are really pleased to welcome Leah to Notts this season. She was one of the standout midfielders in this league last season, and we believe she brings a huge amount of quality to the group. Her experience at this level is a massive asset as we look to grow and improve." Both players could make their debuts as early as this Sunday when Notts County Women face Lincoln United, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the club at their new home, Coronation Park. With Bailey and Hardy on board, Notts County Women are looking forward to a promising season, aiming to build on their progress and compete at the top of the league. Pride of Nottingham member, Robbie is updating a topic within the PON community forum - which updates the Notts Women's news. Join in the discussion.

New summer signing Jacob Bedeau made an impressive start to his Notts County career in a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Tranmere Rovers at Prenton Park. The former Morecambe defender, who joined the Magpies ahead of the 2024-25 League Two campaign, played a crucial role in ensuring his side kept a clean sheet on the opening day. Reflecting on the match, Bedeau emphasised the importance of securing a point away from home, particularly in a challenging venue like Prenton Park. "I think it's a positive point," he said. "Obviously, the clean sheet is really good to get away from home. Places like this are tough to come, so we're happy with a point. On another day, we might have snatched it at the end, but yeah, I think it was a good performance and one to build on." Bedeau, who was initially deployed in the centre of defence alongside Matty Platt and Lewis Macari, found himself shifting to the left after Adam Chicksen was substituted for Robbie Cundy in the 69th minute. Despite the change in position, Bedeau remained composed and continued to contribute effectively to the team's defensive solidity. He credited the team's philosophy of patient build-up play for helping them settle into the game early on. "It's our philosophy, our way of playing is keeping the ball and being patient," he explained. "Tranmere worked really hard off the ball to shut passing lanes off, especially in that first half. We just settled into the game quite nicely, I think." As a new recruit, Bedeau was acutely aware of the defensive issues that plagued Notts County last season, with the club conceding a significant number of goals. However, he expressed confidence in the current defensive setup and the team's ability to turn things around this year. "Obviously, it's one of those things where sometimes things just don't go your way," Bedeau acknowledged. "But we're looking to build a really strong defence today, and I think that showed. I thought Lou [Lewis Macari] and Platty [Matt Platt] were outstanding, as was the whole team defensively." In a tight and competitive match, Bedeau noted the importance of playing both sides of the game—maintaining possession when possible, but also clearing danger when necessary. "At this level and in league football, it's the points at the end of the day, not pretty football at times," he remarked. "When the ball does have to go over the stand or into the crowd, it has to be done. I think today showed we can play both sides of the game." As the match progressed, Notts County grew into the contest, particularly after a tactical switch midway through the second half. Manager Stuart Maynard' decision to make changes and adjust the team's shape allowed them to apply more pressure on Tranmere. "The gaffer made some changes halfway through the second half, and we changed shape. I think that helped us to get up the pitch and get Jody and K on the ball a bit higher," Bedeau explained. "I think that's when we kind of came into the ascendancy." Bedeau also found himself involved in an attacking move late in the game, getting into an advanced position that nearly led to a goal. Reflecting on the opportunity, he said with a smile, "I did have a little nosebleed coming on. I saw Jodi [Jodi Jones] back post, and obviously, Jatta [Alessandra Jatta] made a great run as well. It came off his kneecap. On another day, he doesn't get there, and we go one-nil up. But it just wasn't to be today." Looking ahead, Bedeau is optimistic about the season and eager to continue contributing to the team's success. "I'm really enjoying it here," he said. "It's a club going places, and when I got the opportunity to come here, I was so excited, and I still am." With a solid debut under his belt, Bedeau has already made a positive impression on the Notts County faithful. His strong defensive display and calm presence at the back will be key assets as the Magpies aim for success in League Two this season. It's match day! Join us for the opening round of the League Cup as Notts County take on Shrewsbury Town - join in with the Pride of Nottingham match discussion. Check out our latest features which are written by Notts fans who have a passion for talking about the club - deep dive into League Two predictions and final places, which teams have recruited well this summer.

Notts County began their 2024-25 League Two campaign with a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Tranmere Rovers at Prenton Park. The match, characterised by County’s dominance in possession and a robust defensive display, showcased the team’s commitment to securing clean sheets and setting a solid foundation for the season ahead. Head coach Stuart Maynard expressed his satisfaction with the result but felt his side could have come away with more. "Really delighted with the point. I think we deserved more. I think we had the best chances," Maynard stated, reflecting on the team's performance. "We had to change the shape to get back on top again. The minute we changed it, we got on top again." The Magpies controlled much of the game, particularly in the second half, where they pinned Tranmere back into their own half for long periods. Despite a series of promising opportunities, including a near-miss from striker Alessandra Jatta, County were unable to find the back of the net. Maynard highlighted the need for better execution in the final third, saying, "Just a bit more quality in the final third, and I think we would have come away with three points. But it's the first day of the season. We've got a few bodies out as well. As you can see, we're a little bit light, but they're getting there." One of the key talking points ahead of the match was the late departure of Aaron Nemane, who left the club after an offer was accepted the night before the game. In his place, new signing Conor Grant made his debut, despite only joining the squad shortly before the match. Maynard praised Grant’s impact, stating, "What a debut for him! He didn't train with us. The deal got done late on Friday, so he didn't train with us. But it was an offer that the club just couldn't refuse, and that's the way that you have to work at times." Grant, who played a key role in Barnsley's playoff campaign last season while on loan, brought much-needed stability to the Notts County midfield. "Conor's a player that we've admired for a very long time. He's someone that we've tracked for a very long time," Maynard explained. "We believe that we're getting a top player." The defensive solidity on display was another highlight of the match. New signings Jacob Beadau and Matty Platt put in impressive performances at the back, with goalkeeper Alex Bass commanding his area with authority. Maynard was quick to praise the defensive unit, stating, "Defensively, we defended our box excellently today. It's not easy for a goalie to come, he probably had four crosses to come for, and three of them he came and took. Unbelievable and just relieves the pressure." Maynard also acknowledged the contribution of the forward players in maintaining defensive shape, noting, "If you look at the work ethic from AJ [Jatta], the way he set the tone today, Sammy Austin, Cedwyn Scott, their work ethic was unbelievable. We stopped them putting balls into the box, so you've got to give huge credit to them." Despite the lack of goals, the performance provided plenty of encouragement for the Notts County faithful. The travelling supporters, who were vocal throughout the match, played their part in driving the team forward in the closing stages. "The fans, they were in here early. We got here probably an hour and a half before kick-off. There were probably 100 to 200 in there, all singing and welcoming the lads," Maynard said. "They got behind the lads and drove us on, and they nearly got us to win." Looking ahead, Maynard remains focused on the challenges that lie ahead, including the upcoming Carabao Cup fixture against Shrewsbury Town. While the head coach is mindful of the demands of a long season, he is eager for a cup run, stating, "We all want cup runs. We all want that dream cup run away to Manchester United and playing those big games for the players, for the fans, for us as a management team, for everyone." As the season progresses, Notts County will look to build on their solid start, with the squad’s depth and adaptability set to play a crucial role in their pursuit of success in League Two. The Pride of Nottingham's feature, the Notts Alumni, has returned to share the story of a true former great in Jeff Astle - take a moment to read about his career and if time permits, why not share a memory with us? The Pride of Nottingham was at Preston Park yesterday, and PON gaffer Chris took to capturing the Faces of PON - a fan gallery.

It’s often said that the true essence of the game lies not just on the pitch, but in the stands. This sentiment was vividly brought to life during Notts County’s recent away match against Tranmere Rovers, which ended in a hard-fought 0-0 draw. As a dedicated fan and photographer, I had the privilege of capturing the unwavering spirit and passion of our travelling supporters for Pride of Nottingham’s latest feature, “Faces of PON.” The journey to Prenton Park was filled with anticipation and camaraderie. From the early morning coach rides to the bustling pre-match gatherings, the Notts County faithful were out in full force, their black and white scarves waving proudly. Each face in the crowd told a unique story, a testament to the diverse and vibrant community that makes up our fanbase. Among the sea of supporters, I encountered lifelong fans who have followed the Magpies through thick and thin, as well as new faces experiencing the thrill of an away day for the first time. There were families passing down the tradition of supporting Notts County to the next generation, and friends united by their shared love for the club. The smiles, the chants, and the moments of collective tension and joy were all captured through my lens. “Faces of PON” is a tribute to every fan who makes the journey, who stands by the team through every high and low. It’s a reminder that, win or lose, the heart and soul of Notts County will always be found in its incredible supporters. Thank you for being the heartbeat of our beloved club. You can check out the Pride of Nottingham's "Faces of PON" on our popular Facebook page, feel free to share and tag your friends. If you would like a copy of the picture feel free to reach out. The Pride of Nottingham relies heavily on the kind contributions and donations of the Notts County faithful. If you're in a position, why not consider donating to help maintain the site's upkeep? We greatly appreciate your support at PON!

The 2024/25 League Two season began with a goalless draw between Tranmere Rovers and Notts County at Prenton Park, as the Magpies controlled much of the game but were unable to convert their dominance into a winning goal. Stuart Maynard's Notts County side took control from the outset, enjoying 65.4% of the possession, yet found themselves frustrated by a resilient Tranmere defence. The hosts, however, started brightly, with debutant Cameron Norman providing an early scare for the visitors. His dangerous cross after 15 minutes forced the Magpies to clear the ball from close to their goal line. Tranmere's most threatening moments came through Luke Norris, who tested debutant goalkeeper Alex Bass with a sharp turn and shot in the 18th minute. Bass, one of four debutants for Notts, reacted swiftly to keep the effort out, underlining his importance in securing a point for the visitors. Tranmere managed eight shots during the match but found the target just twice, with Bass dealing comfortably with their best opportunities. Notts County grew into the match as the first half wore on, crafting their best chance just before the half-hour mark. Matty Platt's precise pass found Adam Chicksen, whose knockdown presented Cedwyn Scott with an opportunity on the edge of the area. However, his left-footed effort was blocked, one of several instances where Tranmere’s defence stood firm under pressure. The second half saw the Magpies continue to assert their dominance, with Tranmere managing only 34.6% of the possession. Despite this, Tranmere looked dangerous on the break, and Josh Davison had a golden opportunity on 65 minutes after being played in by Norris. However, Bass was again up to the task, making a comfortable save from close range. Notts County responded quickly, and their best chance of the match came moments later. Dan Crowley delivered a superb cross into the box, but Alassana Jatta could only head over from six yards. The Magpies registered 11 shots in total, though only one of these efforts tested the Tranmere goalkeeper. As the match drew to a close, Notts continued to press, winning eight corners compared to Tranmere’s five. However, despite their relentless pressure, they couldn't find the breakthrough. Robbie Cundy came closest in stoppage time, glancing a header wide from a Crowley corner, much to the relief of the home supporters. Discipline was an area of note, with Tranmere committing 13 fouls and receiving one yellow card, while Notts were penalised five times and also had a player booked. In the end, despite their superior possession and the increased number of shots, Notts County had to settle for a point. The Magpies can take heart from a dominant second-half display, though they will undoubtedly feel they deserved more from a game in which they controlled large periods and created the better chances. Why not share your post-match thoughts or insight into the goalless draw against Tranmere Rovers inside the Pride of Nottingham match discussion, join in with fans and see what others have to say. Is Notts County close to bringing in another new player this summer? Have a look at this discussion and share your thoughts on the potential signing.

Tranmere Rovers v Notts County highlights

Notts County's latest signing, Conor Grant, has expressed his delight and eagerness to hit the ground running at Meadow Lane following his move from MK Dons. Grant's transfer was finalised just one day before the club's League Two season opener against Tranmere Rovers, with the young midfielder joining as part of a deal that saw Aaron Nemane head in the opposite direction for an undisclosed fee. Grant, who is expected to add creativity and dynamism to Notts County's midfield, was introduced to the fans via an interview published on the club’s official website. The 22-year-old couldn’t contain his excitement about joining the Magpies, making it clear that he’s ready to contribute immediately. "Yeah, delighted. Delighted to be here," Grant began, still fresh from the emotions of his signing photoshoot. "I just really can't wait to get going now and be with all the boys, and, yeah, get going." Grant arrives at Meadow Lane with an intriguing résumé, having spent the latter half of the previous season on loan at Barnsley. The unusual move saw him step up to a higher division, and he made a notable impact with two assists in crucial games that saw Barnsley come heartbreakingly close to reaching the play-off finals. "Obviously, it was really good. Really good experience for me, playing in big games. Obviously, the playoff games were a great experience," Grant reflected. "But yeah, I really enjoyed my time there. So, yeah, looking forward to getting going." While Grant’s time at MK Dons began on a high, winning the club's Young Player of the Year award after a standout first season, things didn’t unfold as he would have liked in the following campaigns. The midfielder admitted it was difficult to see the club relegated, but he’s taking the lessons in stride as he embarks on this new chapter at Notts County. "Yeah, a bit of a weird one," he said of his time at MK Dons. "Obviously, that year we got relegated, which was a tough year for myself. So that was a tough one to take. But then the following year, yeah, it didn’t really happen for me. And that's football. You move on, you learn from it, and, yeah, just hoping for a good year this year." Notts County head coach Stuart Maynard is optimistic that Grant's arrival could be transformative. Speaking about the new signing, Maynard expressed his belief that Grant could finally find his footballing home at Meadow Lane, given the three-year deal the player has committed to. "He’s somebody that needs to really find his footballing home," Maynard remarked. "A three-year deal gives him the opportunity to do just that. We see the potential in Conor, and we believe that our ambitions as a club align perfectly with his personal goals." For Grant, the prospect of settling down and flourishing at Notts County was a key factor in his decision to join. He was particularly drawn to the club’s aspirations and style of play, which he believes align well with his own footballing philosophy. "I think the ambition the club has, you know, it’s a club that shouldn’t be in League Two, to be honest," Grant said. "And just speaking with the gaffer, the way he wants his team to play suits how I like to play football, so yeah, I think it’s a perfect match. And hopefully, it is." As for his playing style, Grant described himself as a player who thrives on being involved in the game and making things happen, whether as a number 10 or a number 8 in midfield. "Just getting on the ball, really, making things happen. It’s what I love to do and what I’ll try and do while I’m here," he explained, showing a clear understanding of his role and how he intends to contribute to the team. With the start of the 2024-25 League Two season imminent, Grant has no time to waste. Despite only just arriving, he’s already preparing to be part of the matchday squad for the season opener against Tranmere Rovers. The excitement is palpable as he looks forward to meeting his new teammates and making an instant impact. "Really looking forward to it. Obviously, nobody really likes preseason, so just looking forward to getting going and meeting all the boys, staff, everyone, and seeing the fans tomorrow. So yeah, it should be a good day," Grant concluded, ready to begin his journey with Notts County. As the season kicks off, Notts County fans will be eagerly watching to see if Conor Grant can fulfil the promise that both he and the club believe he has, helping the Magpies push for success in League Two. Be sure to add your pre- and post-match thoughts to the Pride of Nottingham match discussion; keep an eye on what fans have to say throughout the game against Tranmere Rovers. Read the Pride of Nottingham match preview for the opening day fixture against Tranmere Rovers, and be sure to leave your thoughts in the comments.

As the new League Two season kicks off, all eyes will be on Prenton Park this Saturday as Tranmere Rovers host Notts County in what promises to be an exciting encounter. Both teams will be eager to start their campaigns on a positive note, setting the stage for a thrilling match. Tranmere Rovers come into this game with a point to prove after a challenging previous season where they finished 16th in League Two with 57 points. Manager Nigel Adkins will be looking to build on their pre-season form and ensure his side hits the ground running. Tranmere's home form will be crucial, and the support of the Prenton Park faithful could provide the boost they need. Key players like Josh Davison and Tom Davies will be pivotal in both defence and attack, aiming to make a significant impact from the outset. On the other hand, Notts County will be riding high on confidence after a strong finish to their last campaign, where they secured a fourteeth-place finish. Under the guidance of Stuart Maynard, the Magpies have shown they can be a formidable force, particularly with the attacking prowess of Alassana Jatta, who enjoyed his pre-season and had found the net five times after signing in January of this year.. The addition of players like Daniel Crowley and Jodi Jones has bolstered their squad, adding depth and creativity to their line-up. The tactical battle between Adkins and Maynard will be fascinating to watch. Tranmere's defensive solidity will be tested against Notts County's dynamic attacking play. The Rovers will need to be disciplined at the back while looking to exploit any weaknesses in the Magpies' defence. Set-pieces could play a crucial role, with both teams having players capable of delivering quality balls into the box. For Notts County, maintaining their composure away from home will be key. Their away form last season was inconsistent, and they will need to address this if they are to challenge for promotion. The midfield battle will be intense, with both sides boasting players who can control the tempo and create opportunities. Notts County's ability to transition quickly from defence to attack could be a decisive factor in the outcome of the match. Fans can expect a high-energy game with plenty of goal-scoring opportunities. Both teams have shown they can find the back of the net, and this match could well be decided by which side is more clinical in front of goal. The atmosphere at Prenton Park will be electric, with both sets of supporters eager to see their teams start the season strongly. In summary, the clash between Tranmere Rovers and Notts County is set to be a captivating encounter. With both teams having much to prove and a desire to start the season on a high, this match promises to deliver excitement, drama, and plenty of talking points. Football fans are in for a treat as these two sides go head-to-head in what could be an early indicator of their ambitions for the season ahead. Read up on Notts County head coach thoughts, as Stuart Maynard discusses the start of the season and the teams' preparation for Tranmere Rovers. Cedwyn Scott is eager to take on his new role at Notts County, as the clubs number 9 - read up on his thoughts on Tranmere and the season ahead.

Pre-season Update 09.08.24 | Harry Mclean

As Notts County prepare to kick off their 2024-25 League Two campaign against Tranmere Rovers, Cedwyn Scott is relishing the opportunity to step into a more prominent role for the club. The forward, who joined the Magpies two years ago alongside Macaulay Langstaff, has been handed the coveted number 9 shirt following Langstaff's departure to Millwall. Scott’s promotion to the role is a significant milestone in his career, especially given the challenges he has faced over the past year. Reflecting on the injury that kept him sidelined for much of the previous season, Scott admitted that it was a difficult time for him. “It was a really, really difficult period in my career, sort of the first real serious injury I’ve had,” Scott said. “When I first went for the consultation, the doctor was pretty blunt and said, ‘It’s potentially career-ending,’ and I was taken aback and in shock.” Despite the severity of the injury, Scott remained determined to return to the pitch, focusing on his rehabilitation with the same commitment he shows on match days. “There was nothing that could be done except getting my head down and cracking on with it,” Scott continued. His hard work paid off, and he has since been a consistent presence in pre-season training. “I think I’ve been involved in every single session so far in pre-season and, you know, I’m feeling the rewards of that.” The departure of Langstaff has undoubtedly left big boots to fill, but Scott is eager to take on the responsibility that comes with wearing the number 9 shirt. “Obviously, when me and Macca [Macualay Langstaff] first came to the club, we had a discussion about who would have it. I had the 19 at Gateshead, and it was available here as well, so I let him have that one,” Scott explained. Now, with Langstaff moving on, Scott sought his friend's blessing to inherit the number. “I spoke to him and said, ‘Would you mind if I had that?’ and he said, ‘No, not at all.’ He’d love it, so yeah, happy to take on that burden.” Scott recognises the pressure that comes with the shirt, particularly at a club with as rich a history as Notts County. “It’s a massive club. I’m already very grateful to be here, playing for them,” Scott remarked. “To wear that number 9, which was my favourite number growing up, is a real honour as well as a burden, but I want that pressure. I want to have that mindset that I’m going to score goals.” Interestingly, Scott is set to operate in a slightly different role this season, transitioning from an out-and-out striker to more of an attacking midfielder. “I’ve typically been an out-and-out number 9, but I’m currently operating in more of an attacking midfield role,” he said. Despite the shift, Scott’s ambitions remain unchanged. “I just want to score goals and keep helping the team.” Looking ahead to the new season, Scott is optimistic, not just for himself but for the squad as a whole. “There’s been quite a big turnover of players, which since I’ve been here, we haven’t really had,” he noted. “The gaffer has done a lot of work on the training pitch, and I think we’re starting to gel really well.” The opening match against Tranmere Rovers marks a fresh start for Scott and his teammates, and the forward is determined to make the most of it. “Saturday, we should be in a really good place to go and try and hit the ground running, hopefully,” Scott concluded. With a new number on his back and renewed confidence following his recovery, Cedwyn Scott is poised to play a crucial role in Notts County’s quest for success this season. The Magpies’ supporters will be hoping that Scott can indeed rise to the occasion and fill the void left by his predecessor. We would love to see your thoughts on the Pride of Nottingham forum! Check out the Pride of Nottingham's dashboard page and join in with our content by ensuring you leave some comments. Read up on head coach Stuart Maynard's thoughts ahead of tomorrow's opening League Two clash of the 2024-25 League Two season against Tranmere Rovers. Head over to the article and be sure to leave your thoughts.

As Notts County prepare to kick off their 2024-25 League Two campaign with an away match against Tranmere Rovers, head coach Stuart Maynard exudes a sense of cautious optimism. Speaking in an interview ahead of the game, Maynard discussed the club’s preparations, the challenges ahead, and the squad's readiness for the season. Maynard acknowledged the excitement and pressure that comes with the final week of pre-season. "You always get to this final week, and it’s that reality that the season’s here," he remarked, noting how quickly the anticipation builds as the opening fixture approaches. "Pre-season feels long when it starts off, but it does come around very quickly, and yeah, look, we're as prepared as we can be at this stage." Reflecting on the pre-season campaign, Maynard highlighted the progress made by the team, particularly in terms of defensive solidity. "We've learned a lot from the way that we defend as a group, and it's something that we're focused on," he explained. The head coach was particularly pleased with the team’s defensive record, especially as the pre-season fixtures reached the 60-minute mark. "Once we started getting to the 60 minutes, we only conceded one goal in the first half of pre-season within games, which is a great stat for us," Maynard said, emphasising the importance of being hard to beat this season. The Notts County squad has seen significant changes over the summer, with several new signings aimed at bolstering the team's defensive ranks. Maynard pointed out that the allocation of squad numbers from 1 to 6, all to new signings, "tells a story in itself." He elaborated, saying, "We’ve recruited some defenders, and it’s something that we talked about at the back end of the season. We knew that we needed to make sure that we brought in competition for places in those areas." However, the head coach hinted that the transfer business might not be over just yet. With nine new arrivals so far, Maynard suggested that there could be further additions before the transfer window closes. "Things can happen very quickly in football, so look, there's always a possibility," he said. "We are trying to strengthen. We want to make sure that the squad's got good depth, which at the minute we feel that we're probably a couple short." One of the most notable signings for the upcoming season is Cedwyn Scott, who has been handed the coveted number nine shirt. Maynard expressed his confidence in Scott’s ability to make an impact. "I feel he's a goalscorer. He's a very clean finisher," said Maynard, adding that the player had shown sharpness during pre-season after an injury-plagued previous campaign. While Maynard stopped short of revealing his starting eleven for the opening match, he admitted that the coaching staff is "pretty close" to finalising their selection. The team has spent considerable time preparing for Tranmere Rovers, even scouting their opponents in a live match against Wigan. "We kind of know what to expect," Maynard commented, underscoring the importance of understanding the opposition. As Notts County embark on the new season, the head coach emphasised that success would depend not just on the starting eleven but on the entire squad. "If we want real success, it's about being able to look at your bench and then looking what's outside your squad to make sure that they can come and have an impact," Maynard noted. Maynard also provided an update on Matthew Palmer, a player who has been sidelined with injury since October. "He's been in full contact training for the last two weeks," Maynard revealed, adding that while Palmer is close to returning, the club is being cautious. "We just got to make sure that we stick to the timings... because he's going to be such a key player for us this season." For Maynard, the upcoming match against Tranmere represents more than just the start of a new season; it’s also a chance for a fresh start for the management team, who joined mid-season last year. "With a full pre-season, it's been massive for us as a management team now, and we're really looking forward to it," he concluded. As the season opener looms, Maynard’s cautious confidence reflects the quiet determination within the Notts County camp. The Magpies are ready to take flight, with their sights set firmly on a successful season ahead. We're discussing the upcoming game against Tranmere Rovers on our community forum. You can join in with the Pride of Nottingham match discussion here. Looking for something to wear to show off your love for Notts County? Why not have a look at the exclusive Pride of Nottingham t-shirts and help support the Pride of Nottingham's upkeep.

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