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Joe Jones

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  1. Adam Collin has declared himself pleased with his performances so far this season for Notts County and believes that he can hang onto the number one jersey providing he keeps doing what he's doing. The 32-year-old has started each of his side's five League Two games in the current campaign and has kept two clean sheets in that time. Although Kevin Nolan brought in two goalkeepers this summer in in Branislav Pindroch and Ross Fitzsimons, who have played in the cup competitions so far, Collin is unfazed by the competition. “I am delighted with my own form and have been since the gaffer came in,” he told the Nottingham Post. “I’m just trying to be as consistent as I can. “The gaffer always said I was his number one since he walked through the door, which gives you loads of confidence. That’s never changed in my eyes and I am just getting on with the job. “I know there’s people wanting to take my place and it was the same with (Scott Loach) last year. “We’ve bought Bran and Ross in and they are ready to come in at any time. So that keeps me on my toes. Only one of us can play but I know if I keep doing what I am doing I’ll be playing every week.” Share your thoughts about this news story on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.
  2. Notts County are flying high at the minute, currently unbeaten in five in all competitions and sitting fifth in the League Two table with 10 points from five games. September is a busy month - having got one fixture out of the way, a 1-0 win at Port Vale, we now embark on the second of seven league games, against Morecambe at Meadow Lane. The Shrimps have been widely tipped to endure a difficult season, but they are somewhat of a bogey team for Notts, given they're unbeaten in four and have registered two 4-1 wins. Pride of Nottingham spoke to Morecambe fan Brian ahead of Saturday's game to get an insight on the opposition. About Brian: I've supported the Shrimps since 1995 - a good year as we were promoted into the Conference - and my favourite player of all time is Kevin Ellison. What happened last season with the whole ownership saga? Wish I had an actual proper answer for you! Was all a bit of a mess really. So a Brazilian businessman, Diego Lemos, takes over the club in September. He then goes AWOL, then another suit, Joseph Cala, turns out saying he's the new owner, then Lemos comes back, then the whole thing ends up in court and now it's in the hands of a guy called Graham Burnard. Just a load of nonsense. You're celebrating 10 years in League Two this season. How would you assess your first ever decade in league football? Nothing less than we deserve. We had been steadily rising up the leagues - it's not been quick, but it's about getting there. Being promoted from non-league is hard but we've persevered and got there in the end, and we've had a good run so far in League Two, got some great results along the way and really just enjoying the ride. In an era of hiring and firing managers, you've had just three different men at the helm since 1994. Do you see it as a kind of honour to have had such a little turnaround? Well, the manner in which the club changed manager in 2005-06 was a bit unsavoury - Jim Harvey took us into the Conference and kept us near the top for ten years, then he sadly suffered a heart attack - he recovered, thankfully - which saw Sammy McIlroy take the helm supposedly until the end of the season. Jimmy then came back and was sacked, with McIlroy getting the job permanently. Left a very bitter taste in the mouth, but the club was then promoted the following year, so that was sort of forgotten. But as for the original question, yeah, it's good that each manager has had the chance to create a legacy here. Don't really see it much anymore nowadays. You've had one playoff finish in 2009-10. Can you see Morecambe challenging again for a top seven place this season? I would be surprised if that was the case. Below the top 3 that season, it was all up for grabs, the playing field was so even among the clubs - we were 4th on 73 points, Northampton were on 67 and finished 10th. Now you've got clubs in League Two with huge budgets that are signing Championship-quality players, so unless we get another perfect storm, it's unlikely. But we've got a fairly large squad with a lot of youngsters, so we should be competitive. Who are Morecambe's danger men in the current squad? Adam McGurk joined us on deadline day and he's a striker who caused us no end of trouble when playing against us so we're hoping he hits the ground running for us. Vadaine Oliver is suspended at the minute but he looks a handful, and same for Callum Lang, the young loanee from Wigan. Garry Thompson and Kevin Ellison aren't getting any younger but they've still got goals in them. Final score? Notts are a tricky proposition at the minute, you're on form and are unbeaten at home, but I'm hoping our good recent form against you guys will hold up, so I'm going to say a 1-1 draw. Share your thoughts about this Opposition View feature on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.
  3. Kevin Nolan has described Notts County captain Richard Duffy as a “proper man’s man”. The defender produced an impressive performance against former club Port Vale last weekend, helping the Magpies clinch a 1-0 win at Vale Park and helping them climb to fifth in the table. It capped off what has been a good start to the season for Duffy who has been handed the skipper’s armband in the absence of injured midfielder Michael O’Connor - and is a huge turnaround from last season, when he was being derided by many Notts fans for poor performances. “He was perfect (against Vale) and I’ve had full confidence in Duffer since I walked through the door,” Nolan told the Nottingham Post. “He is a proper man and a proper man’s man. “You can see that by the way he conducts himself on the pitch and the way he marshals the defence. “He and Shaun Brisley are starting to form a great relationship. It’s a great partnership going forward.” Share your thoughts about this news story on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.
  4. Shola Ameobi has admitted that Notts County was "on its knees" when he joined in February this year, but is happy at the improvements since and is eager to bring honour back to the club. The former Newcastle United striker, a former colleague of Notts boss Kevin Nolan at St James' Park, arrived at Meadow Lane with the club battling relegation from League Two. Things are much different at present, with new owner Alan Hardy investing in the club and engaging with the fans, while on the pitch, the team is in the top seven of the fledgling table, making for a feelgood vibe. “The club was on its knees. The first time I came into the dressing room, I could sense that,” Ameobi told The Guardian. “The players had played four games under Kevin, winning one and drawing one but, before that, they had lost 10 in a row. It is hard to escape that rot. “It’s been about trying to get the honour back. It’s important that we build something positive for the city; build a winning, positive culture. The players have to have respect for the club they’re playing for. "That’s what I’m all about – making sure you’re wearing the shirt with pride and giving everything. We’ve been able to do that in the short space of time I’ve been here.” Share your thoughts about this news story on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.
  5. Notts County legend Les Bradd has revealed how he would have never become the club's all-time top goalscorer were it not for the support of Jack Wheeler. The Buxton-born forward played for the Magpies between 1967 and 1978, helping them climb steadily away from the lower reaches of the fourth division into a comfortable second division position. However, Bradd - who 137 goals in all competitions for Notts - admits things could have been a lot different were it not for a one-to-one conversation with then-caretaker manager Wheeler during the a "low ebb" for the player. He told Notts TV's Team Talk: “Jack was Mr Notts County for 25 years, he did every job you could think of. “If it hadn’t have been for him, I wouldn’t have become the top all-time goalscorer – I was at a low ebb when my father took ill with cancer in 1968 and my mind was all over the place. “He pulled me over to one side and I told him everything – Kettering, a non-league club, had come in looking for me and I said I was going to go there and start a new life. “He took me into the stands, sat me down for an hour and we talked and talked and he said ‘follow this line’ and that’s what I did.” Share your thoughts about this news story on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.
  6. Kevin Nolan has spoken of how a discussion with his Notts County players about throwing bodies on the line following their 3-0 opening-day defeat to Coventry City helped improve their defensive play. The Magpies boss was happy with the clean sheet recorded on Saturday as his side secured a 1-0 win at Port Vale, with the likes of Richard Duffy and Dan Jones putting in great performances at the back. “We want clean sheets and at Coventry we didn’t see that desire to stop the opposition from scoring,” Nolan told the Nottingham Post. “We didn’t throw bodies on the line and we had a chat about it. “Since that day, we’ve got better at it and as time goes on we will continue to improve. “It’s something we are working hard at and I think we will get good positive clean-sheet performances from now until the end of the season. “We didn’t have many when I walked in the door, but if you stop the opposition from scoring and can nick a goal, then you win the game. I was delighted with them.” Share your thoughts about this news story on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.
  7. Notts County boss Kevin Nolan has warned his players not to let complacency kick in following their impressive start to the League Two season. The Magpies are currently five games unbeaten following their 1-0 win over Port Vale, a great turnaround following their 3-0 hammering at Coventry City on the opening day of the League Two season. Following the victory at Vale Park, September will now bring two home fixtures in succession, against Morecambe and Swindon Town, but derbies against Lincoln City and Mansfield Town will come later this month. “We are delighted with the start we have had, but gutted that we haven’t had an even better one," Nolan told the Nottingham Post. “It’s important that you keep your feet on the ground because we had a great start last year. “There was a chance to go in the top three last season, and I will be reminding the players about that. “Complacency can’t kick in. When you are on a run like this, we have to make sure we work harder to ensure we keep driving this club forwards.” Share your thoughts about this news story on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.
  8. A fundraising drive has begun to design and install a plaque outside the Nottingham hotel where a meeting was held to create Notts County Football Club. On December 7, 1864, a group of individuals gathered in Suite 102 in what was then the George Hotel - now the Mercure Hotel - on George Street, Hockley, and created the first professional ‘foot-ball’ club in the world. Notts fan Andy Black has started a crowdfunding page with the aim of raising £450 so a plaque - the idea of which was proposed by the Nottingham Civic Society - can be installed by the Mercure Hotel's entrance to pay tribute to this historic meeting. He told the Nottingham Post: “I am just a football fan and I am passionate about my club. After helping to raise funds for the Jimmy and Jack statue outside the stadium, I was asked to help raise funds for this plaque. "I want to give Notts County fans the opportunity to contribute to a plaque to go outside the hotel. “Nottingham Forest have the Brian Clough statue right in the city centre and I’d like to see more recognition of County in the centre of town. "It will be of interest to tourists too who come through the city centre and will want to learn about the history of the club." Notts owner Alan Hardy added: "We are extremely proud of our status as the world’s oldest Football League club and commend Andy’s efforts to commemorate our birthplace. "The meeting that took place inside the Mercure in 1864 was hugely significant for the sport and the plaque will be a fitting way for people to learn more about our club’s unrivalled history." The Post has also revealed that the plaque is going to be black with white writing, the colours of the club, and that the fundraisers hope to have the money raised by the end of October so the plaque is ready to be unveiled on the anniversary of the club’s creation in December. Share your thoughts about this news story on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.
  9. Kevin Nolan has revealed that several prospective signings backed out of a move to Notts County as he would not guarantee them first-team football. The Magpies strengthened their squad throughout the summer but did not make any further additions on deadline day. A number of players, such as Sheffield Wednesday's George Hirst and Nottingham Forest's Tyler Walker, plus an Everton academy forward, were all linked to the club, but no moves materialised. On the subject of his goal-getters, Nolan told the Nottingham Post: “I have goals all over the pitch. It’s great because on the bench I know I can bring quality on as well. “I’ve got Lewis Alessandra, Jon Stead, Jorge Grant, Jonathan Forte, Shola Ameobi, Richard Duffy and Shaun Brisley – they’ve all got goals in them. “We have them all over the team and that’s why I was happy with our business and how early we did it. “But like I said if that special one had come up, and it wasn’t for the want of trying, but we were either priced out of a move, or players didn’t think they could dislodge who we already had up front. “They didn’t want to fight for their position and wanted guarantees they would play first-team football but I don’t offer guarantees to anyone even my players about playing week in or week out.” Share your thoughts about this news story on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.
  10. Lewis Alessandra has expressed his delight with grabbing the winning goal for Notts County at Port Vale, but also hailed the togetherness and effort of the whole team. The winger came off the bench on Saturday at Vale Park and, with his first touch, bundled home Jorge Grant's cross to open the scoring with what proved to be the winner. However, the entire Magpies setup had to be at their best when they fell to 10 men following three substitutions and Shaun Brisley's departure due to injury. “That’s what you want to do as a substitute - come on and make an impact and I was happy to do that within 30 seconds,” Alessandra told the official Notts site. “I want everyone in this team to be doing well, but I’ve done my job today by coming off the bench and making an impact. “It would have been nice to cap off a great day with a second goal but we’re more than happy with three points. “Victories like this mean a lot when you’ve had to really work for it, as you could see by the reaction from the lads at the end of the game. “The big thing in this team is the togetherness. There are five or six captains which is really good for us, especially with the blend of youth in the team. “The manager has built a team full of great lads. We’re a tight-knit group and we enjoy working for each other. "The camaraderie in the group is fantastic and, with regards to strength in depth, this is the best League Two side I’ve played in.” Share your thoughts about this news story on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.
  11. Kevin Nolan has found himself praising his Notts County substitutes once again as the Magpies claimed a 1-0 win at Port Vale. With the League Two game evenly poised on a knife-edge, its solitary goal came through Lewis Alessandra, who came off the bench to score with his first tough, bundling home a Jorge Grant cross. The task of holding on to the lead was made all the more difficult after Shaun Brisley had to be taken off following a head knock and, with all three substitutions already made, Notts had to see the game out with 10 men. “I was delighted with the win and I spoke about it a lot in my recent press conferences and after games in that the lads coming off the bench were making an impact,” Nolan told the Nottingham Post. “Rob Milsom came on and was absolutely first class and really steadied us. He made a fantastic contribution. “Fortes and Lewis also played their part. If you look at Lewi he played right-back at the end after the injury to Shaun. “It’s not his position but was fantastic. We knew what to do when we went down to 10 men because we’ve practised it. “As soon as it happened, the lads knew exactly what to do and what their responsibilities are. “We leave no stone unturned and It’s a credit to the lads that they take it all on board. “It wasn’t the greatest spectacle but when you go away and you get a clean sheet and win 1-0, then it’s fantastic. “The fans will go away not remembering anything about the game, but knowing they’ve won the match.” Share your thoughts about this news story on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.
  12. Notts County's season continues to go from strength to strength after a solid 1-0 win over Port Vale in Saturday's League Two fixture at Vale Park. Lewis Alessandra came on as a substitute and scored with his first touch of the game in the second half to edge the visitors ahead. The Valiants didn't offer much and, even with Shaun Brisley coming off injured and leaving the Magpies down to ten men having made all their substitutions, they still couldn't find a way back into the game. County's victory means that they are unbeaten in five games in all competitions (and if you were to specify it as "in the 90 minutes", then we drew with Scunthorpe United too, technically speaking!) and, in League Two, sit an impressive fifth in the table, with 10 points from five games. Here is some of the reaction from some of the Notts players, the manager, and the Black and White Army. Kevin Nolan "It wasn't the greatest spectacle but when you go away, get a clean sheet and a win it's just fantastic. And then you hear all the fans singing at the end, not remembering much from the game but knowing they've won! "Port Vale are under a bit of pressure so we knew they were going to come out all guns blazing and trying to put their stamp on the game. But I thought we rode that out well and didn't give them many opportunities. "Thankfully, when the chance came our way, Lewis was on hand to put it in the back of the net. We're absolutely delighted." The players Lewis Alessandra “Victories like this mean a lot when you’ve had to really work for it, as you could see by the reaction from the lads at the end of the game. “The big thing in this team is the togetherness. There are five or six captains which is really good for us, especially with the blend of youth in the team. “The manager has built a team full of great lads. We’re a tight-knit group and we enjoy working for each other. The camaraderie in the group is fantastic and, with regards to strength in depth, this is the best League Two side I’ve played in.” Jorge Grant Adam Collin Carl Dickinson Ryan Yates Liam Walker The fans (from PON's Port Vale match discussion thread) Liampie Brill result yesterday, its wins like this which will impact our final league position so i am delighted. Upthepies Good win but Port Vale could have easily got the victory themselves. In the first half they had a cracking chance which they wasted and the performance was not good enough. It was an awful game for both teams. Very scrappy. Ell100t Didn't get to see the match, but only needed to watch the highlights to see what an impact Dan Jones had on the game. Two moments of defensive brilliance. I know it is only one game, but personally I am very relieved with our start to the season as it doesn't feel like it is over before it has began for the first time in a while. Not getting too carried away, but just very thankful to finally see some more positivity around the players and the fans. Countyman Very uninspiring performance but the players kept at it and got the win. Port Vale don't look like much of a side in league two but I just hope nobody gets carried away. If we win a few or lose one, people just get all OTT. The Skipper Port Vale wasn't really bad they just looked like a team without any real ideas. They could have taken the win for themselves after two early chances which Collin saved and then Jones running back when they was clear through. I am not all that bothered about the performance because the training ground will sort that. At this stage its just good to get the points! Share your thoughts about the Port Vale match on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.
  13. Notts County's impressive run this season continues to gather pace after a 1-0 win at Port Vale on Saturday. The Magpies faced their third League One-relegated opponent in their first five League Two games of the season at Vale Park in the first weekend of September. However, the Valiants have not been in good form this campaign, and they succumbed to a defeat at the hands of Notts thanks to substitute Lewis Alessandra's second-half strike. Despite going down to ten men due to Shaun Brisley's injury after all three substitutions had been made, Kevin Nolan's charges continued to impress and saw the game out with little trouble. The result sees the Magpies in an impressive fifth-place position (or joint-third if you will) in the table, with 10 points from five games. Admittedly, it was not the prettiest of games, but a win's a win's a win. And if you want to relive the performance - and of course the celebrations for the goal and the final score - Notts County's official YouTube channel has got the highlights up. Share your thoughts about the game on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.
  14. The one-club man. Uncommon even in the olden days, such an entity is now rarer than a unicorn. Though there have been some in recent years - Jamie Carragher, Francesco Totti - they are a dying breed, although you do get some who spend 99 percent of their pro career at one club and then have one final payday elsewhere - nobody could begrudge Steven Gerrard his swansong at LA Galaxy, for example. One example of a fully-fledged bona fide one-club man at Notts County is Brian Stubbs. Born on 8 February 1950 in Keyworth, he is a prodigal son of Nottingham who, despite his impressive performances and illustrious career, was never swayed by a move away from Meadow Lane. Stubbs was a student at the illustrious sporting institution of Loughborough University in the late 60s and was impressing for their football team when, during the 1967/68 season he was offered a trial by Nottingham Forest. However, this was not to be his step into the professional game - he waited one more year before penning a deal with Notts County, under the then manager Billy Gray - who departed soon after to be replaced by caretaker manager Jack Wheeler. Stubbs made his debut at inside-right for the Magpies, who were toiling in the Fourth Division at the time, but given his power, toughness and determination, he was soon converted to a central defender, which as the years went on, turned out to be a stroke of genius. He made just two appearances in 1968/69 as Notts finished 19th in the table, just three points clear of the bottom four, but there was a storm - of a good kind - brewing at the club, because as we all know, the 1969/70 season would herald the arrival of a certain Scottish manager by the name of Jimmy Sirrel. As the Swinging Sixties rolled to an end, Stubbs revelled in his new role in defence and, with the Glaswegian taking the helm in November 1969, the 19-year-old made 35 appearances as Notts entered the summer of 1970 with a much-improved seventh-placed finish in the fourth tier. Sirrel's impressive work truly came to fruition the following season, when the Magpies became champions of the Fourth division, finishing nine points clear of runners-up Bournemouth, and Stubbs had by this point developed into such a quality defender that he was voted Player of the Year. Stubbs had developed an impressive centre-back partnership with David Needham, who was at the club between 1965 and 1977, and despite other clubs sniffing around Stubbsy, he was never persuaded to leave Meadow Lane, as third division status became second division status and, following eight years in the second tier, the dream had finally been accomplished - Notts became a top tier club in 1981. Sadly, it would seem that Stubbs never did get the chance to turn out in the First Division - According to David McVay in Steak Diana Ross II, "he was denied his moment of glory and an appearance in the top flight by the management duo who refused to pick him despite his outstanding service." Stubbs made 426 league appearances in total for Notts, scoring 21 goals and played for eleven years at the club, his entire professional career, and to this day he is still welcomed back with open arms at Meadow Lane. According to The League Paper, Stubbs still lives in his native Keyworth and "worked in the building industry and before becoming a painter and decorator until his ­retirement", and, back to McVay's book, "still socialises and throws the odd dart in public houses south of the River Trent". Share your thoughts about this Notts Alumni article on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.
  15. Kevin Nolan has given a positive update on Shaun Brisley after the defender suffered a blow to the head in Notts County's 1-0 win over Port Vale on Saturday. The centre-back was knocked to the ground after the blow late on in the game and had to be taken off. This left the Magpies to see the rest of the match out with 10 men after they had already made all three substitutions. However, Nolan is not worried about the long-term prognosis, telling the Nottingham Post: “He’s okay, he was up and about afterwards. “Shaun is a great lad and he wanted to stay on. He could remember everything which is always a good sign. "But we have to make sure we look after him and the welfare of the boy. “He’s a strong competitor and hopefully we won’t miss him for too many games. But we will do what is right by him because that’s the type of club we are.” Share your thoughts about this news story on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.
  16. Kevin Nolan has declared himself "absolutely delighted" with Notts County's gutsy display in their 1-0 win at Port Vale on Saturday. Lewis Alessandra came on as a substitute and bundled the ball into the hosts' net with his first touch of the game for what would turn out to be the winner. Even when Shaun Brisley was taken off through injury and the Magpies had already made all their substitutions, the 10 men still managed to impose themselves on their opponents. "It wasn't the greatest spectacle but when you go away, get a clean sheet and a win it's just fantastic," Nolan told the official Notts site. "And then you hear all the fans singing at the end, not remembering much from the game but knowing they've won! "Port Vale are under a bit of pressure so we knew they were going to come out all guns blazing and trying to put their stamp on the game. But I thought we rode that out well and didn't give them many opportunities. "Thankfully, when the chance came our way, Lewis was on hand to put it in the back of the net. We're absolutely delighted. "We were ready for going down to 10 men. We've practiced it, so as soon as it happened the lads knew exactly what their roles and responsibilities were. "We don't leave any stone unturned and it's a credit to the lads that they've taken it on board. I thought they saw the game out really well." Share your thoughts about this news story on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.
  17. Notts County have got their September off to an ideal start with a clean sheet and three points from a tough League Two fixture, winning 1-0 at newly relegated side Port Vale in Burslem. The prettiest game it was not. But the result is what counts, and Kevin Nolan's charges could not have asked for a better result, particularly given they played the latter stages of the game with ten men. Neither side managed to stamp their mark on the game in the first half, the only effort of note coming from David Worrall's strike on 24 minutes which cannonned off the woodwork. With Nolan opting again to use Jon Stead and Shola Ameobi up front, while Vale used Tom Pope as a lone striker, perhaps it wasn't much of a surprise that chances were few and far between. There was more in terms of goalmouth action in the second half, as Dan Jones had to be alert to make a last-ditch tackle to deny Tom Pope and then clear Gavin Gunning’s header off the line. The breakthough - which would turn out to be the winner - came in the 67th minute, as Jorge Grant's cross was met by substitute Lewis Alessandra, who bundled home from close range to send the Black and White army barmy. Notts were then reduced to ten men when Shaun Brisley suffered an injury and had to be helped off the pitch, with all three of their substitutions having already been made. Even when eight minutes of injury time was awarded, giving the Valiants plenty of time to try and find an equaliser, the hosts had little in response, ensuring that the full-time whistle would bring joy to the travelling pack. Share your thoughts about this match report on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.
  18. Notts County defender Shaun Brisley has claimed that Port Vale's last-minute spending will not have any bearing on the Magpies' tactics ahead of today's League Two meeting at Vale Park. The Valiants strengthened their ranks with the arrival of Harry Middleton from Doncaster Rovers and Burnley defender Tom Anderson, both expected to make their debuts against Notts. Brisley told the Nottingham Post: “I don’t think it matters who teams sign. When you get out on to the pitch it’s just 11 v 11. “We’ve just got to focus on ourselves and make sure we do what we are good at. We’ve got a good squad here with such strength in depth. “So we don’t need to worry about anybody else, we’ve just got to take care of ourselves.” Brisley also opened up about County's improvements with each passing game and believes things will continue to get better as the season rolls on. He added: “We’ve started well apart from the opening loss to Coventry. It was a bit of a weird day and we were second best, which is the best way to put it. “But there was a good reaction from the lads at Scunthorpe and we’ve improved each game as we’ve gone. “Hopefully we will carry on and continue to get even better. You can see in the performances each week since Coventry and we are looking a good outfit.” Share your thoughts about this news story on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.
  19. Kevin Nolan has hit out at suggestions that Notts County need reinforcements up front, describing the current strike force as "the best at the club in a long, long time." Many fans over the last few weeks have called for the Magpies to recruit a new forward, given the mixed form of the ones currently in the role, as well as their advancing ages, while Callum Saunders is believed to be more of a reserve-level player. However, Nolan thinks the current batch of marksmen are the envy of the rest of League Two, and revealed that many suitable strikers they've been in touch with over the summer either wanted huge money, priced themselves out of a move, or did not feel they could replace the first-team trio. He is quoted by the Nottingham Post as saying: “We’ve got the best strike force in a long, long, time at this club so everyone should be happy. “It baffles me because I think if it was any other club in this division, they would be delighted with the strikers we have. They wouldn’t be worrying, but apparently we are. “I did ring a lot of strikers over the summer and the quality we were looking at either went for big money, or pricing themselves out of a move. “If people think that I haven’t spoken about strikers, then they are completely wrong. But the reason why nobody has come in is because they don’t feel as if they can replace Jon Stead, Shola Ameobi or Jonathan Forte. "Then we’ve got Callum Saunders and Alan Smith which is great back-up. “I know there is a lot of talk about me playing Jonathan Forte but I didn’t have that complaint back in January when I first walked in through the door. “I am frustrated about being asked about a striker, because I feel we have enough. “It’s quite funny because everybody who has been promoted, apart from one team in the last 10 years, hasn’t had a 20-goal striker. “I’ve done my research and I know what I need. If I needed a 20-goal striker, Alan (Hardy) would have given me one – that’s how he works. “I am delighted with the squad I have. It is hungry, and I feel the more time they spend together, they will get better. “But if we have to revisit signing players again in January then we will, but it will be our decision and our decision only.” Share your thoughts about this news story on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.
  20. Notts County have met Port Vale a grand total of 101 times over the years, with the first two fixtures coming within a week of each other back in February 1921. The Magpies won the first game 2-1, but lost 1-0 at Meadow Lane. Notts have the upper edge having won 45 games, lost 36, and drawn 20 against the Valiants, with the highest scoring matches coming in February 1927 (a 6-2 defeat) and April 1935 (a 5-3 defeat). Last time these two played, at Meadow Lane in League One in February 2015, Vale won 1-0. Port Vale is one of the few English league clubs not to be named after a geographical location. The name Port Vale exists on maps pre–dating the formation of the club, which probably occurred in 1879, and is a reference to a valley of ports on the Trent and Mersey Canal, associated with the city's pottery industry. The club itself is actually based in Burslem, one of six towns that make up the city of Stoke-on-Trent. Port Vale have never been in the top tier of English football, and the last time they were in the second tier was back in 1999-2000. In terms of silverware, the Valiants have won the Staffordshire Senior Cup twice, in 1920 and 2001, whilst being runners-up in 1900 and 2010, as well as several other regional cups like the Birmingham Senior Cup, one of the oldest county football competitions still active. The club, despite being fairly small, enjoys the support of some world-famous celebrities. Robbie Williams is known to be a huge fan, to the point that he held £240,000 worth of shares in the club and has a restaurant at Vale Park named after him. For the videogame FIFA 2000, he provided an original theme song called It's Only Us, on the condition that Port Vale should be included in the game, which they were, located in the Rest of World section (back in the days when the smaller teams weren't included). Also, in 2005, Williams founded Los Angeles Vale FC, a Super Metro League team in the United States, named after Port Vale and based at his Los Angeles home. Darts star Phil “The Power” Taylor is also a big fan, while Blue (that Noughties boy-band) singer Simon Webbe was part of their youth setup until a ligament injury hampered any prospect of a career in football. Team news Port Vale will be without veteran midfielder Michael Tonge through suspension for the visit of Notts as he is serving a three-match ban for his sending off in last weekend's home loss to Crewe. Goalkeeper Rob Lainton is hoping to return after four games out with a thigh injury but defender Tyrone Barnett (hamstring) is not yet fit despite making good progress. Striker Rekeil Pyke (hamstring) will also be assessed while forward Anton Forrester (thigh) and midfielder Danny Pugh (knee) are longer-term absentees. Notts will be without the suspended Matt Tootle after defender was sent off late on in the 2-2 home draw with Accrington Stanley, and he will serve a one-match ban at Vale Park. Magpies manager Kevin Nolan will probably choose between Carl Dickinson and Nicky Hunt to replace Tootle at full-back. Striker Jonathan Forte continues to push for a starting place after impressing from the bench in recent matches. Share your thoughts about this match preview on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.
  21. August is over and done with, Notts County's first month of the season is now just a memory, and we move on to September's fixtures with the Magpies nicely nestled in seventh place in League Two. However, much like any other job where its employees are routinely recognised and rewarded, it's worth recognising the players who have impressed in the black and white in August. Jorge Grant has already been named the player of the month by Notts County, the fans picking him head and shoulders over everyone else (64.8 percent compared to second-placed Terry Hawkridge with 20.1 percent). But here at Pride of Nottingham we have decided to name the standout players for each position in August - so to all those picked, well done and keep up the good work going into September and for the rest of the season! Goalkeeper: Adam Collin Left-back: Dan Jones Centre-back: Shaun Brisley Centre-back: Richard Duffy Right-back: Matt Tootle Left wing: Jorge Grant Centre-mid: Ryan Yates Centre-mid: Elliott Hewitt Right wing: Terry Hawkridge Striker: Jonathan Forte Striker: Shola Ameobi Share your thoughts about our picks for team of the month on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.
  22. Alan Hardy has revealed that Notts County moved for three youngsters towards the end of the summer transfer window. Deadline day came and went without the Magpies making an additional signing, and the club owner claimed that they saw no reason to make a last-minute acquisition. However, he later wrote in the Nottingham Post that Notts had nonetheless still been in the hunt for a player "who we thought would improve us". Hardy said: "I’ve had several meetings with the manager and the outcome of them all was that he was in no way desperate to make any new signings, and that he’s been very happy with the start to the season. "The team’s recent performances justify his relaxed attitude towards making further additions. We have a very good squad and the past three or four games have proved it. "That’s not to say that we didn’t try to bring in players who we thought would improve us. "We attempted to sign a young player from Everton following his magnificent performance against us in the Checkatrade Trophy. "But the deal just proved too expensive, both in terms of the loan fee and his wages. "We also considered a move for a Sheffield Wednesday player who we feel has great potential, but the deal became very complicated because of his contract situation. "It was also widely reported that we were interested in Tyler Walker but Nottingham Forest weren’t receptive to our loan bid following his recent performance against Newcastle. "Of course, it’s frustrating to miss out on targets. But the money we have saved can now be used in the January window, when I’m very confident we will be looking to progress from a position in the top half of the table to make a concerted push for our ultimate goal." Share your thoughts about this news story on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.
  23. The first month of the new season is now in the past, and as always there has been plenty of eventful activity and news at Notts County. In this article, Pride of Nottingham recaps all the biggest stories from Meadow Lane and elsewhere in the Magpie world in August 2017. August 1 Just one day after clinching the triple signing of Branislav Pindroch, Pierce Bird and Callum Saunders, Notts County added two more recruits in Elliot Hodge and Nicky Hunt. August 3 Notts County announced their squad numbers for the 2017/18 season, while Richard Duffy was confirmed as club captain for the upcoming campaign. August 4 Notts County announced the arrival of a second Nottingham Forest player on loan, Ryan Yates joining alongside teammate Jorge Grant. August 5 Notts County's League Two season got underway, but they were put to the sword at Coventry City, who beat the Magpies 3-0. August 7 Kevin Nolan revealed that a "frank discussion" had taken place between himself and Notts County striker Jonathan Forte. August 8 Notts County put in a much-improved performance at Glanford Park in their defeat to Scunthorpe United in the EFL Cup, taking them all the way to penalties. August 10 Pride of Nottingham announced their sponsorship of Notts County forward Jonathan Forte's home kit for the 2017/18 season. August 12 Notts County unveiled their brand new home dressing room, owner Alan Hardy describing it as top-flight standard. Notts got off the mark in League Two after claiming a 2-0 win over a rough Chesterfield side at Meadow Lane. August 16 Pride of Nottingham announced their partnership with Mapperley-based computer store BettaBytz Computers, owned by Notts County fan Kevin Searcey. Notts County took on Everton Under-21s in the EFL Trophy and claimed a 2-1 win over the academy side. August 19 Notts County claimed their second League Two win in a row - and third in all competitions - but were made to sweat as they relinquished a two-goal lead before charging ahead in a 4-2 triumph at Wycombe Wanderers. August 24 Pride of Nottingham announced that they were seeking sponsors and business partners. Jake Bugg announced that he would be playing an intimate set at Meadow Lane in September. August 25 Notts County rounded off their August fixture list with a 2-2 draw with Accrington Stanley at Meadow Lane, letting a two-goal lead slip for the second game in a row. Share your thoughts about this news roundup on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.
  24. Alan Hardy has declared himself delighted with Notts County's transfer business in the summer window and feels there was no need to add to it on deadline day. The Magpies have recruited 11 players on a permanent basis over the summer, as well as two loanees, all prior to 31 August. Most of them have played a role in the opening-month haul of two wins and a draw from their first four League Two games. There was talk of a striker playing for a Championship club having trained with Notts and was looking to sign, but ultimately the window shut without any late additions. Hardy wrote on the official Notts website: "My second transfer window at the helm is now at an end – and what a different experience it was to my first! "Back in January we faced a mad dash to exit our transfer embargo before bolstering the squad with a number of late signings to give Kevin Nolan the best possible chance of keeping us in the EFL. "He comfortably achieved that, as he promised he would, setting us up nicely for the summer. "This window, we were keen to get the bulk of our business done early to allow our new signings to settle in properly before the season began and to help the manager and his coaching staff formulate a strong plan for the season ahead. "I'm delighted with the way our business has panned out and I believe our position in the top seven is a good reflection of the positive strides we've made in the transfer market. "No doubt many of you will have been keeping an eager eye on our website and social media today in the hope of some exciting news, but Kevin and I are happy with our squad and saw no reason to add to it today. "We will continue to explore targets with a view to January but, as always, our selection process will be carefully thought-out with the best interests of the club at heart. "We have faith in this group and believe they are getting better day after day. "Your support, which has been magnificent so far this season, will be vital in helping the players reach their full potential. "Stick with us and let's see how far we can go. COYP!" Share your thoughts about this news story on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.
  25. Jon Stead has claimed that he knows exactly where Notts County fans are coming from when they say he should be out of the starting XI. The veteran striker got off the mark in the 2-2 draw with Accrington Stanley, scoring from the spot, but many supporters believe he should be dropped to the bench in lieu of Jonathan Forte. In response, Stead told the Nottingham Post: “It’s not a tricky situation for me at all because I totally understand where fans are coming from. “Forts has come into games and got two goals. I get what they’re saying. “All I can do is my best on the pitch and work hard. I think I showed a real willingness to work hard and create things when I can against Accrington. “If it means I’ve got to harass and chase and do the ugly side when we’ve got good players who come off the bench and take advantage, then I feel I’m doing my job. “Forts has been fantastic. He’s probably disappointed not to start but while I’ve got my place I’ve got to do everything I can to keep it. “A goal certainly helps that. I think I’m doing the rest of the bits for the team, tiring opponents out to hopefully give Forts a bit more joy when he comes on. “It’s pleasing to score but the result overshadowed the goal.” Share your thoughts about this news story on Pride of Nottingham by signing up to the website, visiting the forum and joining in the chat with hundreds of fellow Notts County fans. Fancy showcasing your brand or business on Pride of Nottingham? Click here to find out more about sponsorship and advertising opportunities with us.

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Pride of Nottingham

Pride of Nottingham is an independent fansite devoted to Notts County, the world’s oldest professional football club. Created in 2013, it has served as a source of Magpie news, features, match previews, reports, analysis and interviews for more than three years.

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