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Notts County v Morecambe highlights

POST-MATCH | NOTTS COUNTY 5-0 MORECAMBE | MACAULAY LANGSTAFF

POST-MATCH | NOTTS COUNTY 5-0 MORECAMBE | LUKE WILLIAMS

Notts County v Doncaster Rovers highlights

POST-MATCH | NOTTS COUNTY 3-0 DONCASTER ROVERS | DAN CROWLEY

POST-MATCH | NOTTS COUNTY 3-0 DONCASTER ROVERS | LUKE WILLIAMS

Stockport County v Notts County highlights

POST-MATCH | NOTTS COUNTY 1-2 STOCKPORT COUNTY | LUKE WILLIAMS

In a gripping encounter at Edgeley Park, Stockport County emerged triumphant with a 2-1 victory over Notts County. Their resilience and tactical prowess were on full display. The game wrapped up in a whirlwind of suspense, keeping spectators glued to their seats, hearts pounding, right up until the referee’s final blow. The pivotal moment unfolded in the 85th minute. Jayden Richardson of Stockport County drew a foul in the penalty area, paving the way for a nerve-wracking penalty kick. Paddy Madden stepped up and calmly slotted the ball into the bottom right corner. This doubled Stockport's lead and put them in control. Yet, the game took a dramatic turn just moments later. David McGoldrick of Notts County exhibited precision with a right-footed shot from the centre of the box in the 90+3rd minute. The ball found the bottom left corner, narrowing the scoreline to 2-1 and setting the stage for an intense finale. Throughout the match, Stockport County showcased defensive resilience and tactical discipline. This frustrated Notts County's attacking aspirations. Kyle Cameron of Notts County received a yellow card in the 85th minute for a reckless foul. This led to the pivotal penalty that ultimately decided the outcome. The first half saw Stockport County take the lead in the 7th minute. Kyle Wootton clinically found the net with a right-footed shot from the centre of the box. The goal resulted from a well-executed set-piece, with Kyle Knoyle providing a crucial assist following a corner. The opening half also witnessed some close calls. David McGoldrick and Jodi Jones of Notts County attempted shots from outside the box but failed to hit the target. Stockport County's disciplined defensive line, marshalled by Neill Byrne, successfully thwarted these attempts. This maintained their slender lead. As the match progressed, both teams strategically introduced fresh legs through substitutions. Notably, Stockport County brought on Joel Cotterill in the 90th minute. This reinforced their defensive resolve and secured a vital three points. In the aftermath of the match, Stockport County's manager expressed contentment with the result. Buoyed by the team's gritty performance, the victory propels Stockport County up the league standings. This underscores their determination to compete at the highest level. While the Notts County faithful may be disappointed by the outcome, the players' commitment and the late-game suspense surely left an indelible mark on their footballing hearts. Share your full-time thoughts in the Pride of Nottingham discussion, comment on your take alongside other Notts County faithful as the club falls short of Stockport County. Check out Neil Warnock's 'Love Actually' with a clip promoting this festive Christmas season. Well worth the watch and comment!

In a candid pre-match interview, Macaulay Langstaff, Notts County's prolific striker, took a stroll down memory lane, delving into the highs and lows of an extraordinary year for himself and the team. As the year draws to a close, Langstaff shared his thoughts on the journey from non-league to League Two, the joy of scoring his first Football League goal, and the invaluable lessons learned alongside experienced teammates. The year 2023 unfolded as a fairy tale for Langstaff and Notts County, a narrative that exceeded their expectations. "If you had told us at the beginning of the year that we'd be promoted to League Two, sitting sixth in the league, and breaking records, we would have taken that. It's been an incredible year," Langstaff enthused, setting the tone for a conversation filled with reflections and aspirations. Langstaff's personal journey, transitioning from non-league to the Football League, became a central theme of the discussion. "To finally achieve that at 26 years old was special. Walking out against Sutton and playing in the Football League was a proud moment, even though the game didn't go as planned," Langstaff remarked, his words resonating with the passion and determination that characterizes his play on the field. The striker delved into the emotions surrounding his initial struggles to find the net in the early stages of the season. "I've always said any non-league footballer is ambitious to play in the Football League. No goals in the first three games was frustrating, but then scoring my first goal at Doncaster was another special moment for me," Langstaff revealed, underlining the resilience required to overcome goal droughts. As the conversation shifted towards the support network, Langstaff emphasized the broader significance of his achievements. "I wanted to score goals not just for myself but for my family and the club. When you don't score in the first few games, you feel like you might be letting the club down, but the support from fans and the faith they showed kept me going," he stated, offering a glimpse into the mental fortitude required to thrive in professional football. Acknowledging the crucial role played by the coaching staff, Langstaff highlighted the impact of seasoned players like David McGoldrick on his development. "Working with the gaffer every day and learning from players like David McGoldrick has brought me on leaps and bounds. I look back to when I first signed for Notts, and I'm a totally different player now," Langstaff admitted, demonstrating his gratitude for the mentorship that has shaped his growth. As Notts County looks towards the future, with Langstaff leading the line, the striker's journey from non-league to League Two exemplifies the resilience and determination that defines the beautiful game. The echoes of his remarkable year reverberate not just in the records broken but in the spirit of a team that continues to defy expectations. ARLukomski has shared his document which identifies many players of which he would like to see potentially cover for the injured Matt Palmer and the defender most fans would welcome. Take a look back at the impressive year 2023 has been for Notts County through this video goal reel. Don't forget to share your thoughts on this!

As Notts County reaches the midway point of the season, head coach Luke Williams provided valuable insights into the team's journey and offered thoughtful reflections on the challenges faced and the upcoming match against formidable opponents, Stockport County. Williams opened the interview by addressing the inherent difficulties of transitioning to a higher division, cautioning against setting unrealistic expectations. "It's dangerous to be promoted into a new division and have expectations. We've played every team, so now we have a better gauge," he shared, emphasising the team's ability to compete at the new level. Reflecting on player adaptation, Williams acknowledged the varied experiences among individuals. While some players adapted well, the team faced setbacks due to unfortunate long-term injuries, notably to Geraldo Bajrami and Cedwyn Scott. However, Williams praised those who rose to the challenge, showcasing resilience and flexibility. "As we prepare to face Stockport County, known for their goal-scoring prowess, we understand the importance of finding a balance between attacking and defending," Williams remarked. He elaborated on the team's approach, saying, "We scored the second most goals, but we conceded too many. We have to continue trying to get this balance correct." Williams also touched on the recent departure of Steve Cooper from Nottingham Forest, expressing his disappointment while acknowledging Cooper's impressive impact on the team. "I'm gutted that he's gone. He's an unbelievable guy. To take a team at that stage in the season in a bad place and be that impressive is incredible," Williams lamented. Expanding on Cooper's influence, Williams delved into the transformative effect the former Forest manager had on the team. "If you speak to any of the players, I'd be amazed if they don't tell you that they felt a part of something, they knew. The manager talked to them in a certain way and made them believe and brought them a part of something," Williams added. In terms of the upcoming match against Stockport County, Williams offered further insights into the team's preparation and strategy. "If you speak to anybody at Sutton, I'm sure they set up to be really rigid defensively. You have to be careful to try to just defend because this team will find a way to score," he advised, highlighting the need for a balanced and strategic approach. As the interview progressed, Williams also shared thoughts on the team's plans for the Christmas period, emphasising the importance of players spending time with their families. "Christmas Day is for them to be prepared to play on Boxing Day but to spend some time with their family," he revealed, providing a glimpse into the team's balance between professional commitments and personal well-being. In conclusion, Williams reiterated the team's focus on the ongoing process of improvement, acknowledging the challenges that lie ahead in the second half of the season. With respect for Stockport County and a determination to strike the right balance, Notts County aims to navigate the complexities of a higher division, showcasing resilience and commitment under Williams' leadership. Macaulay Langstaff is eager to get Notts County off to a flying start. Read all about it on the Pride of Nottingham website and feel free to share your thoughts! Check out all the latest on-goings within the Pride of Nottingham by visiting our popular 'dashboard' page. Find everything quickly and at a glance. Get involved today!

In the build-up to a crucial clash against Stockport County, Macaulay Langstaff, Notts County's dynamic striker, engaged in a pre-match interview that provided a glimpse into the anticipation and determination circulating within the squad. With a challenging fixture against league leaders Stockport on the horizon, Langstaff shared insights into the team's mindset, the influence of experienced players, and the collective hunger for success. Langstaff's excitement for the upcoming match was palpable as he delved into the unique atmosphere surrounding games against top-tier opponents. "These are the games you want to play as a footballer. Going to Stockport County, a famous club with a lot of fans, playing against the top of the league — it's exciting. It's a tough test, but I'm confident in our team's abilities," Langstaff declared, setting the tone for a discussion that touched upon the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead. Reflecting on the team's recent form, which has seen a dip in results, Langstaff maintained a positive outlook. "Performances haven't been bad; certain things haven't gone our way. I'm confident in this group. We've had an incredible 18 months, and I believe we can turn these 45-minute performances into 90-minute ones and get the results we need," he asserted, underlining the team's resilience amidst a challenging period. As the conversation turned to the upcoming Christmas schedule, Langstaff acknowledged the sacrifices players make during the festive season. "Christmas will be hectic, but it means full focus on Stockport and the following Boxing Day fixture. We won't be having a traditional Christmas dinner, but it comes with the job," he said, providing insight into the commitment required to navigate a demanding football schedule. The interview also touched upon the team's mid-season position, with Langstaff recognising both the disappointment and the achievements. "We're not happy with being sixth in the league, but if you look at the bigger picture, it hasn't been a bad start. We expected challenges in League Two, and we're motivated to climb the table," Langstaff concluded, emphasising the long-term perspective amid temporary setbacks. Expanding on the theme of challenges, Langstaff discussed the unique dynamics of the team, particularly the learning experiences gained from playing alongside seasoned professionals. "I've learned a lot from players like David McGoldrick. Off the pitch, the wealth of experience he's got is unbelievable. On the pitch, his quality helps elevate our game," Langstaff remarked, shedding light on the symbiotic relationship within the squad. Looking ahead to the fixture against Stockport County, Langstaff acknowledged the significance of the match and its potential impact on the team's confidence. "It's gonna be a tough game, but it's one we're going there with confidence. If we can get a result here, it could kick-start a run because it'd be a massive boost of confidence," he noted, underscoring the importance of momentum in the unforgiving landscape of professional football. In the grander scheme of the season, as Notts County continues to navigate the challenges of League Two, Langstaff's words resonate as a rallying call for resilience, commitment, and the unyielding pursuit of success. The clash against Stockport County stands as a pivotal moment, an opportunity for Notts County to showcase their mettle and reignite the spark that fuelled their remarkable journey in the past 18 months. Read Luke William's analysis of Notts County's recent performance and why they need to keep improving. Join other Notts fans by reading and sharing your thoughts. Over 20 replies to the Pride of Nottingham match discussion, what are your pre-match thoughts going into tonight's fixture against Stockport County? Let us know.

PRESS CONFERENCE | STOCKPORT COUNTY (A) | MACAULAY LANGSTAFF

Notts County's head coach, Luke Williams, has provided an encouraging injury update ahead of the highly anticipated match against Stockport County. In a pre-match interview, Williams revealed that both David McGoldrick and Kyle Cameron are back in contention, having trained well during the week. However, the team will still be without Will Randall, Lewis Macari, and Junior Morias due to injuries. *Williams expressed his satisfaction with the team's overall health, stating, "Both those guys are back in contention. They've both trained this week, so that's good news for us. We're pretty healthy." Looking back at last week’s game, Williams didn’t shy away from recognising the hurdles the team had to overcome. "We've been on a long crusade since I arrived here. We cannot stand still. If we stand still, we go backward, and that's where I have to continue to try to push the group," he emphasised. Williams highlighted the importance of maintaining a high level of performance and not solely focusing on results. "We have to demand more from everybody. We're controlling the game, but we're missing that spark. It's my job to push the players to continue," he added. Regarding the long-term absence of key midfielder Matt Palmer, Williams admitted its impact on the team. "He's a player that gives us a heartbeat and a rhythm that we don't have. He's irreplaceable," Williams stated. However, he emphasised the collective effort required to compensate for Palmer's absence, saying, "We have to find a way, but yeah, without Matty, something is missing." When it comes to the team’s recent performance, Williams was clear - it’s all about keeping a steady pace. "We haven't changed. We haven't changed. We know where we are, and we know what we need to do to improve our performance," he clarified. Looking ahead to the upcoming match against Stockport County, Williams praised their opponents, acknowledging their impressive run and progress over the seasons. "I think they're doing incredible things. They're quite clearly the standout team. I'll be amazed if they're not champions this season," he admitted. Finally, addressing recent rumours linking him to Swansea City, Williams responded, "It's very flattering, but I need to concentrate on doing my job here." He clarified that there had been no official contact from Swansea. As the anticipation builds for the upcoming clash against Stockport County, Williams' focus remains unwavering. Despite the challenges and the injuries, his commitment to pushing the team forward is evident. His respect for the opponents and his humility in the face of rumours shows a leader who is grounded and focused. As fans, we can only wait with bated breath for the match, knowing that Notts is in capable hands. Explore the ‘topicfeed’ page on Pride of Nottingham, a hub for our forum content. Engage, read, and comment all in one place. Join the Pride of Nottingham Match Discussion and contribute to the conversation. Share your team selection and other thoughts ahead of the game.

PRESS CONFERENCE | STOCKPORT COUNTY (A) | LUKE WILLIAMS

Last week, Notts County secured the services of Lewis Macari on a permanent basis, marking a significant move for the talented player. In an interview that goes beyond the exclusivity tag, Macari candidly shares his thoughts on the challenges he faced initially, the unforgettable debut goal, and the decision to commit to the club permanently. Looking back at his early days with the team, Macari admits to the struggle of adapting to a new playing style. "It was a new way of playing for me, and the gaffer has his own brilliant style. It took me a little while to get used to it, but since then, it's been a lot better, and I'm really happy with how things have gone." The defender, known for his enthusiasm, talks about the nerves and excitement surrounding his league debut, especially scoring a goal on that occasion. Macari describes the feeling as "unbelievable" and expresses a keen desire to recreate similar magic in future games. When discussing the uniqueness of his debut goal, Macari acknowledges the rarity of attempting a first-time shot from outside the box. "I just thought, 'Hit it as hard as I can and as sweet as I can,' and it just rose into the net. I still can't believe it to this day, but hopefully, I can try and do it again." Touching on the intensity of Notts County's playing style, Macari shares that it took some time to adjust to the quick pace and high pressure. However, he emphasises his enjoyment of the style, stating, "We want to blow the opposition away, and that's something I've had to get used to. But I really enjoy it, and I think I've got used to it now." In discussing his decision to make the loan move permanent, Macari reveals his early enthusiasm for the club, even during periods when he wasn't in the squad. "I just can't wait to play," he says. After getting his chance, Macari felt "properly a part of the team" and expressed his commitment to helping the club progress, stating, "I want to be the one to help take it up." As the conversation unfolds, Macari reflects on the learning curve of playing regular league matches. He highlights the importance of adapting to different playing styles and pitches, citing the valuable lessons he has picked up from the coaching staff. In conclusion, Macari expresses his eagerness to continue improving and contributing to Notts County's success. With the permanent deal finalised before Christmas, he emphasises the relief of having the uncertainty behind him and the focus shifting entirely to football. Lewis Macari's journey at Notts County reflects his determination, adaptability, and passion for the game. He looks forward to making significant strides in men's senior football, leaving an indelible mark on the team's journey. Show your support to the Pride of Nottingham by considering making a donation to help support the site's upkeep. We are incredibly thankful for all the support. Join in with this weekend's fixture as the Pride of Nottingham prepare for the game against Stockport County, and share your thoughts inside our match discussion.

Notts County's head coach, Luke Williams, pulled no punches in a post-match interview following his team's disappointing 3-1 defeat to Harrogate Town. Williams expressed his frustration with the overall performance, labelling it as "terrible" and highlighting issues that ranged from a lack of courage to defensive vulnerabilities. The coach didn't hold back in critiquing the team's approach to building up play, insisting, "To play for a club like Notts County, you cannot be so scared to play football that you can't build up properly." Williams lamented the inability to make forward passes, leading to turnovers and subsequent defensive lapses. He pointed out the team's softness defensively, emphasising the need for a more assertive and confident style of play. Injuries and illnesses further complicated matters for Notts County. Williams, who lost his voice early in the game due to fervent instructions, clarified that there was no illness in the camp but acknowledged the absence of key players. He bemoaned the lack of communication on the field, stating, "Not that anyone was listening to me anyway." Addressing the recurring issue of conceding early goals, Williams attributed it to the opposition's disciplined defensive tactics, forcing Notts County into uncomfortable situations. The team's struggles in countering attacks and regaining control after turnovers were evident, leading Williams to express his disappointment with the players' mentality. The coach spared no one in his critique, stating, "I'm really hurt because I can accept when the game is really difficult, but not in a manner that we're facing so many big movements, so many big actions attacking." He called for a quick change in mentality to avoid further disappointments. Looking ahead to upcoming fixtures against stronger opponents, Williams stressed the urgency to improve. "We need to improve, or it's going to be very difficult to represent this club playing with sloppiness and mistakes and without courage," he warned, acknowledging the tough road ahead. Injuries to key players, including goalkeeper Sam Slocombe, Kyle Cameron, and David McGoldrick, added to the challenges. Williams provided updates on their conditions, highlighting Slocombe's long-term hip flexor tear and downplaying the significance of other injuries. As Notts County faces a demanding schedule against top-tier teams, Williams concluded by emphasising the necessity of representing the club with courage and determination. The coach remains hopeful but aware of the need for a swift change in the team's mindset to salvage the season. The Pride of Nottingham are discussing the recent change of former player and assistant coach, Michael Doyle. Join in and give this forum topic a read. liampie has started a discussion on if Notts should start playing 3 recognised centre backs, as a means to try to see improvements within our defence. What do you think?

Harrogate Town v Notts County highlights

POST-MATCH | NOTTS COUNTY 1-3 HARROGATE TOWN | LUKE WILLIAMS

Lewis Macari, previously on loan from Stoke City, is now a permanent member of Notts County. He has signed a contract that lasts until the close of the 2026-27 season. This 21-year-old defender has displayed great potential since his initial loan in August. His most notable achievement to date is his remarkable winning goal at Gillingham during his EFL debut. Richard Montague, a member of Notts County’s board who oversees player recruitment, expressed his excitement about Lewis Macari’s potential. He said: “While we’re excited about Lewis’ potential, we should also acknowledge the fact he has already proven himself capable of performing for us at League Two level." Montague also highlighted Macari’s versatility and character. “We value his versatility, with him being comfortable at centre back as well as out wide, and his character and personality are exactly what we’re looking for,” he added. He further emphasised the club’s long-term vision for Macari. "He’s someone who we feel can grow with the club over the duration of his contract, and we’re excited to see what the future holds for him,” Montague concluded. Head coach Luke Williams also views Macari's permanent contract as a very beneficial step. He said: “I’m really pleased to have someone with Lewis’ characteristics in the squad. I’ve been impressed with his courage, concentration and bravery in and out of possession. "He also has a natural intensity and, having grown up with football in his family, seems to understand things on a higher level than other young players might. “On the pitch he also carries a little bit of fear, which is brilliant for defenders to have in their footballing DNA as it enables them to sense and react quickly to danger. “We have to remember he’s a young player with only a few games under his belt, so there’ll be times when he’s not in our starting line-up. But he has the hunger required to make a really good career for himself.” Macari added: “I’m buzzing. Even when I wasn’t making the squad in the first few weeks, I was telling friends and family how much I was loving it here and how I couldn’t wait to play. “Probably after the Gillingham goal, I knew I wanted to stay. This club’s on the up and I wanted to be someone who could help take it forward. I feel properly part of the team now, and I’m really happy to be staying permanently. “I’d been at Stoke a long time, and I can’t thank everyone there enough for everything they’ve done for me, but the time has come to move away and take my first proper steps into men’s football. I know I’ve got to kick on from here now.” Luke Williams has opened up about his thoughts on tomorrow's opposition Harrogate Town, including praising their manager who has been within his post for 9 seasons! Read this article on the Pride of Nottingham. The Pride of Nottingham community have been discussing the linked rumour and now the permanent signing of Stoke City defender Lewis Macari, share your thoughts on this here.

INTERVIEW | LEWIS MACARI ON PERMANENT DEAL