Being a Notts County fan in a city dominated by Forest fans can be challenging. Throughout school, most people I knew supported Forest or whichever Premier League club was doing well at the time. Usually, Chelsea, Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal.
I can recall wearing my Notts shirts around the city when we were in League One and hardly having any negative experiences. It seemed like a time when Nottingham embraced Notts from a Nottingham Forest perspective. However, when we were relegated to League Two, we became a constant laughingstock and that seemed to break any acceptance by Forest fans. Quickly returned the annoying banter and idiots calling out why a Notts fan would be walking around their own city. Even some glory-hunting Premier League fans at times would say how poor Notts were. It was a truly depressing time, made worse by Alan Hardy and our relegation to the National League.
Have you had similar experiences as a Notts County fan in a city dominated by Forest fans? How do you cope with the banter and negative comments?
I have attended the pre-season friendly between Forest, and it wasn’t that bad. I think because we are doing okay, their fans can’t think of much to say, especially with their own situation. I also went to the League Cup game, in which we lost on penalties, which was a very joyous occasion.
Have you attended any matches between Notts County and Forest? What was your experience like?
My advice to fans would be to give as good as you get. If a Forest fan treats you with respect, treat them the same. If they give banter, try to give it back provided they are not thugs! At the end of the day, wear our colours with pride!
Do you have any advice for other Notts County fans living in a city dominated by Forest fans?