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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!

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.