PON_News

GOAL OF THE SEASON | THE 2022-23 NOMINEES

Such a beautiful day at Wembley…

Macaulay Langstaff, the rising star striker of Notts County, has had an amazing week. The Stockton-born player helped the Magpies' achieve promotion back to the English Football League last Saturday. Langstaff made 47 appearances for Notts County this season and scored a record-breaking 42 goals. He has been described as English football’s most coveted striker outside the Premier League. In an interview with Teesside Live, Langstaff spoke about his “unbelievable” season and what the future holds. The match against Chesterfield last Saturday was an emotional rollercoaster for fans, with the game finishing with a nail-biting penalty shoot-out. The Magpies emerged victorious, winning 3-4 on penalties. Langstaff, also known as ‘Macca’, was thrown a huge homecoming celebration outside Ragworth Shops when he returned to the Stockton estate earlier this week. Hundreds flocked to the shops with banners, balloons and smoke flares. The footy star spent time signing autographs, taking pictures and chatting away with members of the community. Speaking briefly to Teesside Live at the event, he described his homecoming as both “overwhelming” and “unbelievable”. Before he headed back on the journey up north for the celebration, he spent a few minutes on the phone chatting with us about how he felt after the promotion victory. “It was probably the best feeling I have ever had in my life, never mind my football career,” he said of the momentous win. “To get promotion at Wembley, the way we did it as well after the season we have had, it was a special feeling.” Talks have now already turned to the future as big money offers are expected to flood in for Langstaff. However, Langstaff told Teesside Live that he is “just focusing on being with Notts” for the time being - but that “whatever happens in the summer happens”. Langstaff started playing for Marton FC when he was around 10-years-old. He went on to play for a number of other local teams including Boro Rangers, Stockton Town and Billingham Synthonia. He signed his first professional contract with Gateshead and then moved to York City for two years. He later returned to Gateshead for another two seasons before joining Notts County on a three-year contract last year. Langstaff previously said that being let go from Middlesbrough affected him for a few years. However, in hindsight, he said that knowing his path today he “wouldn’t change that for the world.” He continued: “I was playing Sunday League until I was 19-years-old… I went through the route of playing with my mates and enjoying it! The hard way really.” He said that - going back even five years - he would “never thought he’d be in this position.” “Even going back three years, I would never have thought this at all,” he said. “I wasn’t reaching the heights I have hit the last three years, so it has been a special ride.” We encourage all fans to read, like, share and comment on the Pride of Nottingham Notts Alumni feature on Jonathan Forte. We also welcome fans to get involved by sharing their views via our ‘Topic Feed’.

Notts County has announced that they have offered a permanent contract to winger Jodi Jones, who was on loan from Oxford United last season. Jones played a key role in the Magpies’ promotion back to the English Football League via the National League play-offs. He scored a dramatic winner in the semi-final against Boreham Wood and converted a penalty in the shoot-out victory over Chesterfield at Wembley. Jones, 25, joined Oxford United last summer after leaving Coventry City. He had suffered three consecutive ACL injuries that hampered his progress while at Coventry City. He made only a few appearances for Oxford United before joining Notts County on loan in January. He quickly became a fan favourite at Meadow Lane, making 18 appearances and scoring three goals. Notts County manager Luke Williams praised Jones for his contribution and expressed his desire to keep him at the club. “We would love to keep Jodi, who has experienced five seasons’ worth of drama in the space of one campaign,” he told the official club website. “He became a Notts County hero by scoring a play-off winner and showed great composure to slot home his penalty at Wembley.” Jones is one of seven players who have been offered new contracts by Notts County. The others are Sam Slocombe, Connell Rawlinson, Jim O’Brien, Kyle Cameron, Aaron Nemane and Ruben Rodrigues. The club has released Ed Francis, Frank Vincent and Kairo Mitchell. Notts County is looking forward to their return to the Football League after a four-year absence. They finished second in the National League behind Wrexham and secured their promotion through the play-offs. They will be hoping to build on their success next season and challenge for higher places in League Two. Join in the discussion and share your thoughts on whether Notts County fans think Jodi Jones will sign permanently with the club. Don’t forget to check out the Pride of Nottingham dashboard page for all the latest news and updates on Notts County.

FULL MATCH | WEMBLEY REPLAY | NOTTS COUNTY 2-2 CHESTERFIELD (4-3 PENS)

Notts County has confirmed their retained list following the conclusion of the 2022-23 campaign. Four players will be leaving the club, while seven have been offered the chance to stay alongside the 14 who remain under contract. Head coach Luke Williams expressed his sadness at saying goodbye to players Ed Francis, Frank Vincent and Kairo Mitchell. He praised their contributions to the team and wished them well in their future endeavours. Williams also expressed his delight at offering new contracts to experienced campaigners Sam Slocombe, Connell Rawlinson and Jim O’Brien. He praised their leadership qualities and contributions to the team. The club is also hoping to keep Kyle Cameron, Aaron Nemane, Ruben Rodrigues and Jodi Jones. Williams announced that the club's objective is to keep a group of players who have endured together the challenges and share a mutual understanding of the standards for representing Notts County. Williams also mentioned that work has already begun on recruitment for the next season. He stated that he will be involved in the process but that the final decision on any new player will not rest solely with him. The head coach also praised the office staff for their continued hard work and dedication to driving the club forward. He expressed his ambition to make 2023-24 another brilliant campaign for Notts County. Here is a list of retained players, players offered contracts, those released and loans that ended: Under contract: Tiernan Brooks Aden Baldwin Lucien Mahovo Geraldo Bajrami Adam Chicksen Richard Brindley Tobi Adebayo-Rowling John Bostock Matt Palmer Luther Munakandafa Sam Austin Junior Morias Cedwyn Scott Macaulay Langstaff Offered new contract: Sam Slocombe Kyle Cameron Connell Rawlinson Aaron Nemane Jim O’Brien Ruben Rodrigues Loan players offered permanent contract: Jodi Jones Released: Ed Francis Frank Vincent Kairo Mitchell Loan deals expiring: Archie Mair Be sure to check out the PON gaffers feature on Notts County’s triumphant return to the Football League and the club’s transformation. Also, don’t forget to visit the Pride of Nottingham web store for prints, t-shirts and more!

WEMBLEY GOPRO | RUBEN'S CELEBRATIONS

Notts County match day vlogger ARLukomski was there to capture the Magpies’ triumphant return to the Football League at the playoff final at Wembley. After four years in exile, following their relegation from League Two in the 2018/19 season, the Magpies were back. The match was an emotional rollercoaster for both teams and their supporters. Notts County demonstrated remarkable tenacity as they twice came from behind against Chesterfield. However, it was Cedwyn Scott who ultimately emerged as the hero of the day, scoring the decisive goal from the penalty spot. This victory marks the beginning of a new chapter for Notts County as they return to the Football League with renewed vigour and determination. The Magpies have demonstrated that they have the talent and resilience to compete at this level, and their supporters will be eagerly looking forward to what the future holds for their team. In an interview with the Pride of Nottingham, ARLukomski (also known as Declan) stated: "A feeling of shock and happiness together. It was the first time I witnessed a promotion, so it was quite incredible. I was shocked that it happened. Finally." He stated when asked about how he felt seeing Cedwyn Scott score his penalty to win Notts County Promotion. "Electric. It was tense when we thought hope was lost and the clock was ticking down. "However, there was pure elation and euphoria when John Bostock, then Ruben Rodrigues, then Archie Mair, and finally Cedwyn Scott gave us the ending we wanted." He added. When asked what his favourite moment from the match was, Declan replied: "It sounds easy, but Cedwyn’s penalty was my favourite moment. "My favourite player completed his redemption arc to give me one of the best moments of my life. I’ve had tough times in life, but for one moment, everything was perfect. We did it." ARLukomski’s vlog captured the excitement and emotion of this historic moment, providing a lasting record of this triumphant return to the Football League. Don’t miss out on any of the excitement - subscribe to ARLukomski’s YouTube channel for all the latest Notts County updates! And for even more behind-the-scenes content, be sure to follow ARLukomski on Twitter. Show your support for this talented vlogger and dedicated Notts County fan!

Notts County owners Christoffer and Alexander Reedtz have released a statement expressing their pride in the club's recent success and promotion to League Two. In their statement, they offer their commiserations to Chesterfield, and thank them for their gracious messages of congratulations. They also praise the team for their mental and physical fortitude displayed in the semi and final, stating that "their will to win was evident" and that they "got what they deserved for such an amazing, record-breaking season." Christopher and Alexander Reedtz shared their thoughts via the club’s official website: "Their will to win was evident, "we’re so pleased that, in the end, they, along with Luke Williams and his staff, got what they deserved for such an amazing, record-breaking season. "To witness the players lift the trophy and to join them in their celebrations in front of our 22,500 supporters, who we wholeheartedly thank for battling the travel disruption, it was a dream come true and has only made us more determined to bring future successes to the club." The owners also reflect on the emotional moment of seeing Jason Turner’s flag on display and announce that the boardroom will be renamed in his honour from the start of the 2023-24 campaign. "It was incredibly emotional to see Jason Turner’s flag on display, along with his photo being held by the players on the pitch. "We know this meant a lot to his parents, Jen and David, who were there with us and delighted with the outcome of the match." They express their gratitude towards the club's staff for their hard work and mention that season ticket sales have been very strong. The club is also undergoing renovations on the Meadow Lane playing surface and installing a new state-of-the-art PA system. "Renovations on the Meadow Lane playing surface are already underway, and we’re pleased to confirm that work has begun on installing a new state-of-the-art PA system. "The club has also acquired new equipment to maximise functionality of our scoreboards, so fans can expect a greatly-improved matchday experience next season. "Supporters will, of course, be keen to know details of which players will still be with us when the new campaign comes around. "The club is going through the necessary processes as we speak and fans can expect an update before the end of the week." In terms of player recruitment, the owners assure fans that they had been planning for life in League Two long before promotion was secured and that work has begun on building a squad that will compete at the top end of the division. They also mention that several key figures from this season’s squad are out of contract but that they are doing everything they can to maintain a strong nucleus of a side that has achieved so much. The owners conclude by expressing their excitement for the future and wishing their supporters a wonderful, relaxing summer. Get involved with Pride of Nottingham and join the conversation! Our “Topic Feed” is a great way to respond to discussions. Have a read of our latest articles and don’t forget to drop a comment! We’d love to hear your thoughts.

PLAY-OFFS UNCOVERED | THE WEMBLEY FINAL

According to Luke Williams, Notts County's head coach, sharing their promotion back to the Football League with their fans has been an incredibly meaningful experience. It's clear that this achievement holds a special place in the hearts of everyone involved with the team. He is confident that Notts County will be able to hold their own in League Two next season. Notts County had an impressive run in the National League, amassing a total of 107 points and finishing just behind Wrexham. Notts County demonstrated outstanding form in the National League, and even so, they had to endure an incredibly challenging play-off campaign to guarantee their place in the fourth tier of English football. Speaking to BBC Radio Nottingham, Luke Williams said he thought Wrexham "would be a very comfortable League Two outfit". "We went toe-to-toe with them, so we have reason to be confident," he added. "We look at the example of Stockport, who were a terrific team in the National League, and have made a brilliant campaign [in League Two this season]. That's given us confidence because we feel we've been an impressive team at this level. "But nothing is ever as simple as that, and we will have to work extremely hard and take nothing for granted and prepare for something that's going to be very, very challenging." Notts County’s return to the Football League after four years away was met with jubilant scenes at Wembley on Saturday. The celebrations continued as Williams rode a scooter while his players mingled with fans in Nottingham on Sunday night. Williams described the experience as “special”. He also stated that the council’s inability to fund a celebratory event to mark the promotion due to their financial position is not an issue. "This is a club where the supporters want to be able to connect with the club after maybe a period of time where there was a disconnect," Williams said. "And I don't think there is a much better way to connect than to stand on a table and sing with the manager and the players. "What is more special than walking round with the season-ticket holders and singing and drinking and celebrating with them? What could possibly be better? "For us to be on the top of a bus or a balcony would be lovely, but you can't sing the same when you're not holding on to each other. This was something I'll never, ever forget. "I cannot think of anything more rewarding than spending time and moments with the special people who come to the games and are the real fabric of the club. I cannot think of anything more rewarding than to share time and moments with them. "To go into a really beautiful city with history and feel like you belong because people are so warm is an incredible feeling. "I had an incredible voice note from Steve Cooper [Nottingham Forest boss], which gave me goosebumps. Things like that make me feel even more bonded with this incredible city. It's a great place." Register on the Pride of Nottingham, a free and independent site that relies on fan engagement to keep the community thriving. Don’t forget to browse the “All Activity” page on the Pride of Nottingham to stay up-to-date with the latest news and discussions.

THE PROMOTION VIDEO | FOUR YEARS IN THE MAKING

GOALS + PENALTY SHOOTOUT | NOTTS COUNTY v CHESTERFIELD

BENCH CAM | WEMBLEY EQUALISERS

On the day of the playoff final against Chesterfield, Notts County fans filled the stands at Wembley Stadium, singing songs and cheering on their team. Among them was Chris Buckley, owner of the independent fan site Pride of Nottingham, who captured the emotions of the fans in his Faces of PON fan gallery. The atmosphere was electric, with fans feeling a mix of excitement and nerves as they watched their team compete for victory. Despite some quiet and cagey moments, it was always great to see Notts fill areas of stadiums and sing various songs, such as “I had a wheelbarrow.” When Notts won on penalties after the game ended 2-2 in regular time, the reactions were mixed. Some fans couldn’t watch, while young fans cried with excitement and nerves at the same time. Chris Buckley shared some memorable encounters and reactions from the day: “At a service station I bumped into some Forest fans, who I wished well with their game against Chelsea. The Forest fan turned around and said, ‘Yes you too. You better go up! After hitting what 107 points and leading the season as long as you did. Notts deserves to go up, mind you, better had because I have you on my bet and I will be buggered if you lose.’” He also reflected on the Faces of PON gallery: “It was great seeing Notts County fans in spirit, hearing a good old ‘You Pies!’ which is something we need to keep as a tradition when seeing Magpie fans.” One of the most memorable moments captured in the Faces of PON gallery was young Harry, who Pride of Nottingham first snapped as a young baby making his first trip to Wembley with his parents Jade Miller and Jeremy Putman. After the game, there were also notable reactions from players and team officials. Chris Buckley observed that Aden Baldwin was struggling with cramp and couldn’t walk. Jim O’Brien came along and tried to help before determining that it would be easier to lift Aden and throw him over his shoulders. He carried him like a fireman to the promotion celebrations and to collect his medal. Jodi Jones also went to each section of the Notts County fans wrapped in a flag and clapping to thank them for their amazing support. The Faces of PON fan gallery is a testament to the passion and dedication of Notts County fans. Thanks to Chris Buckley’s photography, these moments will be remembered for years to come. Have your say inside the Pride of Nottingham match report as Notts County returns to the Football League. Take a look at the site’s activity and get involved with the Notts County fan community.

COMMENTARY CAM | DRAMA IN THE WEMBLEY PRESS BOX

Notts County reclaimed their status as the ‘world’s oldest football league club’ after beating Chesterfield on penalties in an astonishing National League promotion final at Wembley. Substitute goalkeeper Archie Mair saved spot-kicks from Darren Oldaker and Jeff King before Cedwyn Scott sealed a dramatic 4-3 shoot-out triumph. Victory for the 161-year-old Magpies ended their four-year non-league exile while defeat consigned Chesterfield to a sixth season in the National League. Chesterfield took the lead early on when Andrew Dallas put them ahead from the spot after a calamitous start from Notts goalkeeper Sam Slocombe. Notts veteran John Bostock caught Chesterfield goalkeeper Ross Fitzsimons out with a set-piece that skipped in at the near post to level the score. Armando Dobra restored Chesterfield’s lead in the first period of extra time, but Ruben Rodrigues bounced a volley off the turf and over Fitzsimons to level at 2-2 in the second half of extra time, ensuring the showdown would be decided from the spot. After four years and three failed play-off attempts, Notts finally secured their English Football League (EFL) return at the end of a record-breaking season. Luke Williams’ side were pipped for automatic promotion and the title by Hollywood-funded Wrexham, who topped the table with an all-time high 111 points. The 107 points the Magpies collected to finish second would have got them straight up as champions in every other season before this one. Chesterfield finished one spot below Notts in the table, but the gap between the two was 23 points. They pushed Notts to their limits at Wembley in an incredible energy-sapping game. On-loan keeper Mair played an instrumental role off the bench with his penalty saves and Scott kept his cool to secure victory. Have your say inside the Pride of Nottingham match report as Notts County returns to the Football League. Take a look at the site’s activity and get involved with the Notts County fan community.

WEMBLEY WINNERS | A DAY TO REMEMBER

POST-MATCH | WEMBLEY WIN | ARCHIE MAIR

POST-MATCH | WEMBLEY WIN | LUKE WILLIAMS

POST-MATCH | WEMBLEY WIN | CEDWYN SCOTT AND MACAULAY LANGSTAFF