Chris

Notts County secured a comfortable victory against Doncaster on a windy summer afternoon, with Macaulay Langstaff scoring his first English Football League goals and Jodi Jones adding a third. Langstaff scored with a volley and header on either side of half-time, while Jones sealed the win with an excellent finish in front of a packed away end. Doncaster managed to score a late consolation goal, but it did little to dampen the spirits of Notts County as they claimed their second win of the season. Richard Brindley was recalled to the heart of Notts County's defence, replacing Adam Chicksen, after being left out of Tuesday’s draw at Morecambe as a precaution. Brindley was joined by Kyle Cameron and Aden Baldwin in the back three, while Aidan Stone continued in goal after keeping his first clean sheet on the Lancashire coast. On the right, Sam Austin replaced Aaron Nemane, who was named among the substitutes, while Jones continued on the left. John Bostock returned to the base of midfield alongside Matt Palmer after having his minutes managed in midweek. Langstaff was supported by Dan Crowley and David McGoldrick. McGoldrick was involved in the game’s first notable incidents, scuffing a long-range shot wide under pressure before being shown a yellow card for shooting after the referee had stopped play. After Bostock was cautioned for a foul 25 yards out, Notts County took the lead from a set-piece routine. The ball was returned to Bostock in a crossing position, and he produced the perfect delivery for Langstaff to guide home on the volley. Langstaff came close to scoring again moments later but was denied by an excellent defensive header which prevented him from converting Austin’s looping cross - the final goalmouth action of the half. Doncaster made three changes at half-time, but it did not prevent Notts County from doubling their lead within a minute of the restart as Austin’s cross from deep was headed home by Langstaff. It was 3-0 on 54 minutes when Crowley advanced into space and saw his dangerous cross fumbled by Lawlor, allowing Jones to cut inside and find the bottom corner from eight yards. In the end, Stone was denied consecutive clean sheets as Notts County failed to clear their lines inside their own area and Sotona scored a last-gasp consolation goal. Was the result fair? Completely fair. Doncaster Rovers were so far out of their depth that, had Notts managed to secure a fourth goal, the game could have easily seen a fifth for the Magpies. In terms of performance, it took Notts County some time to get into the game. However, they started off well and looked comfortable. Doncaster made it hard early on as they pressed every ball and Notts really had to work to create space. Macaulay Langstaff’s opening goal, after the short free-kick, turned the game on its head and forced the home team to be braver, which in turn opened the game up for Notts. Doncaster Rovers were incredibly poor. Their fans have made several comments about this themselves, although those tinted glasses of red make them believe we were nothing more than average. Everything wrong with their team we saw in the season in which Notts were relegated in 2018/19. They lacked fight, organisation, and their end product was terrible. It took Notts to switch off for them to score in the final minutes of the game. Otherwise, Doncaster simply wouldn’t have any positives from the game. They looked beneath National League standards. Extremely poor; I had thought they’d show more spirit but just like their fans in attendance, they were lacklustre. In terms of tactics: spot on. There was a lot of talk about Aaron Nemane being left on the bench. I think Luke Williams’ rotation and tactics, including the preparation in training, were spot on. The fact that Nemane was absent yet we still looked as lively once the game opened up spoke volumes for the manager’s decisions. The officials: I don’t have any comments on the assistants because they were just what you would expect at this level. Whereas the official, I felt he was extremely poor. He appeared quite biased towards Doncaster, allowing them to go in with aggressive challenges without a warning or card. Their desire to waste time with throw-ins wasn’t identified at all, whilst it seemed that Notts couldn’t get a break from his decisions. Thankfully, it didn’t cost us. However, under the new stricter rules David McGoldrick should’ve been booked for kicking the ball away - yet it’s a bit of a daft rule, especially when Doncaster players achieved the same thing but were unpunished for time-wasting. Up next for Notts is a home return to Meadow Lane against Tranmere Rovers and a perfect opportunity to get back-to-back wins as Tranmere have had a very disappointing start to their League Two season. Now, Tranmere Rovers do have a lot of quality in their team, but they are hindered due to their one draw, three defeats and only a single win. Similar to Notts before Doncaster - it shows that teams are still adjusting to the new season. The prospect of this game when the fixtures were released was one I still fancied our team to do well in; yet with the impressive vocals of our fans’ support and being at home, I feel it gives us a massive edge at Meadow Lane to showcase that we are a very good team especially when it comes to our own fortress. I would hope Richard Brindley is fine to continue within the middle of the three centre-backs; I would still choose Kyle Cameron and Aidan Baldwin provided he is not out. Continuing to establish a consistent backing will only bolster strength in the long term. Jodi Jones has shown that dropping him would be hard even if it was due to bring him on for his impact - which we saw a lot of last season - meaning we could make the most of his excellence at a point where Tranmere Rovers are tiring. However, I would keep him in and just bring Aaron Nemane back into the starting line-up. John Bostock, Matt Palmer, Dan Crowley and Macaulay Langstaff all write themselves into the potential line-up I feel. Perhaps this game is where we see what difference David McGoldrick can make from off the bench? Allowing someone else to slot in; perhaps Cedwyn Scott or Sam Austin. Scott could play as a support option to Langstaff while covering a more midfield role and then double up as a shadow striker. Whereas Austin could show more of that urgency to get the ball forward into important areas we can exploit. In truth, I think it’s unlikely to rest David McGoldrick due to his experience and attributes he brings to Notts, but it’s a tempting thought. Go visit the Pride of Nottingham dashboard and join in with discussions, articles and other content produced by a friendly group of Notts County fans! Check out the latest news published by the Pride of Nottingham! From our match report to fan pictures soon to be published and our ARLukomski’s match day vlog - your support means a great deal to us all!

Julie Henshaw's love for Notts County runs deep. Her parents met through supporting the team, with her mother starting to attend games in 1946 and her father joining her after finishing his National Service in 1947. They travelled to away games on what was known as Bill Reynolds' number one bus. "My mum and dad met through supporting Notts," Julie recalls. "Mum started going in 1946, just before they signed Tommy Lawton. Dad was finishing his National Service so didn't start going until 1947. They travelled to away games on what was known as Bill Reynolds' number one bus." Julie's first memory of Notts County was when her father took her brother to Meadow Lane one Easter Saturday. That night, her brother ran around the front room with a rolled-up paper bag, shouting the names of players like Masson, Barker, and Bradd. "I first remember my dad taking my brother to Meadow Lane one Easter Saturday," Julie says. "My brother would be about 5 or 6, maybe. That night after the game, my bro was running around the front room all night with a rolled-up paper bag, Mason, Barker, Bradd just like commentators on TV." On Easter Monday, the whole family went to Meadow Lane to see the team play against Bradford Park Avenue. Notts County won 5-2, and Julie has been a fan ever since. "We beat Bradford Park Avenue 5-2," Julie remembers. "And just never looked back." Some of Julie's most memorable moments as a Notts County fan include attending Wembley games against teams like Tranmere and Brighton, watching Charlie Palmer score the winning goal against their rivals, and celebrating when the team won the league in 2009/10. She also remembers the uncertainty when it was unclear if Ray Trew would put the team into administration, and the relief when he didn't. "All the Wembley games against Tranmere Brighton etc," Julie lists as some of her most memorable moments. "The game v our illustrious neighbours and Charlie Palmer scoring the winning goal. The horrible time when we didn't know if Ray Trew would put us in admin. He didn't, as we all know now. Winning the league in 2009/10." Julie shows her support for Notts County by contributing to the team's Facebook and Twitter pages on match days and cheering for the players as they come out of the tunnel. She also had a huge flag made to take to Wembley when the team played against Harrogate during lockdown. "I always contribute on Notts Facebook and Twitter pages on match days," Julie says. "Give the lads a cheer and a clap as they come from the tunnel. We had a huge flag made to go to Wembley against Harrogate in lockdown." One of Julie's rituals as a Notts County fan is having a cooked breakfast on Saturdays, just bacon and egg. And if she wears something and the team wins, she'll wear the same outfit again. "One of my rituals is a cooked breakfast on Saturday," Julie shares. "Just bacon and egg. And if I've worn something, and we've won, I'll wear the same thing again." Being a part of the Pride of Nottingham community has enriched Julie's experience as a Notts County fan by allowing her to connect with other supporters and participate in activities such as the prediction league. "Well it's nice to be in touch with other Notts fans sometimes," Julie says about being part of the Pride of Nottingham community. "And sometimes getting to know those fans. I really enjoy prediction league too." She believes that what sets Notts County apart from other football clubs is that it is the best club for families. "Notts is the best club for families," Julie states simply. Julie's love for Notts County has been passed down through generations, with her 11-year-old Derby-supporting grandson Harvey attending a trip to Wembley with her and her 91-year-old mother. Harvey even had tears in his eyes when Cedwyn scored the winning penalty. "Our trip to Wembley this year," Julie recalls fondly. "Also attended by my 11-year-old Derby supporting grandson Harvey. And my 91-year-old mum. She's in her 77th year supporting Notts on Nov 3rd. Harvey had tears on his face when Cedwyn scored the winning penalty." For Julie Henshaw, supporting Notts County is more than just a hobby – it's a family tradition that brings joy and excitement to her life. And she wouldn't have it any other way. "I just love it," she says simply. The Pride of Nottingham is a labour of love with costs. If you can, please consider donating. All support is appreciated. Check out the Pride of Nottingham Match Discussion for the weekend’s away game against Doncaster Rovers. Join in with like-minded fans and share your views on the game both pre- and post-match.

League Two is starting to take shape, with teams eager to maintain a level of consistency. Right now, anyone can beat anyone and Tuesday night should make for an interesting encounter throughout the games scheduled to take place. The prize for Notts County is not just the ability to take home 3 points but to assure the County faithful that their opening game was just a small blip. This game is likely to be decided by whoever scores first, and I feel that Morecambe will have to be tidy at the back in order to prevent Notts County from scoring. A lively striker who can gain support will be required if the Magpies are to win this game. Fixtures Tuesday 15th August 2023 Doncaster Rovers vs Mansfield Town Accrington Stanley vs Barrow Crawley Town vs MK Dons Grimsby Town vs Salford City Forest Green Rovers vs Swindon Town Colchester United vs AFC Wimbledon Crewe Alexandra vs Newport County Tranmere Rovers vs Harrogate Town Sutton United vs Gillingham Stockport County vs Bradford City Wrexham vs Walsall Prediction Morecambe demonstrates an impressive level of intensity, although they encounter difficulties when facing opponents with greater speed. In their game against Mansfield, they found control after using the flanks to their advantage. The Shrimps showed great commitment in their defensive efforts, but encountered difficulties when it came to dealing with set pieces and direct runs into their own half. Notts County, on the other hand, put pressure on themselves when being forced to play the ball back. If they can be direct, using the centre of the pitch and flanks creatively, Notts County may be able to create chances that Morecambe may struggle with. I think a draw is highly likely. 1-1 would be my prediction for the game. Match Odds Morecambe to win 3/1 – Draw 14/5 – Notts County to win 3/4 Head to Head Morecambe – Morecambe currently have 3 points after winning their opening game against Walsall, yet lost to Mansfield. They currently sit 14th and are in a similar situation to Notts County but remain ahead as of now due to goal difference. Notts County – A win could help Notts County relax as they could shoot up the league depending on the results. Luke Williams' side will be mindful of their opening defeat against Sutton United away from home in their opening game but this would give the Magpies' the chance to correct this. Key Man Morecambe; Michael Mellon – He will be vital within their procession and attacking play, I feel he will offer the most outlet for Morecambe and Notts County must keep him quiet throughout the game. Notts County; David McGoldrick – I genuinely believe he will be the difference in this game, with his experience. We need someone who can mix play, by both defending and offering assistance with advanced play. For me, an eager David McGoldrick is exactly what we need. League Table Bradford City have the chance to really kick-start their season, provided that they can beat Stockport County who have struggled so far. The Accrington Stanley game against Barrow will be an interesting outcome, as both teams will want to win. With the home team sitting 8th currently, and Barrow 2nd in the league. Crawley Town have the chance to upset league leaders MK Dons, who are tipped for automatic promotion this season. It will be a difficult game for Crawley, as MK Dons have a very attacking-minded team. Gillingham has the opportunity to do Notts County a favour if they can beat Sutton United. 3rd place vs 7th place, a mutual may prefer a draw but a win for Gillingham in my eyes would be the preferred outcome. Salford City travel to Grimsby, which may see the Mariners' move away from the bottom half of the table. It's very early days, with everyone fighting to get those vital 3 points. Check out the Pride of Nottingham match preview if you enjoyed reading this additional insight into tonight’s Morecambe game. Join us in our Match Discussion inside the Pride of Nottingham forum; share your thoughts and opinions on the game before and after.

Notts County will be heading to Mazuma Stadium for their midweek trip to face Morecambe on Tuesday evening. The Magpies are coming off a confidence-boosting performance and result against Grimsby Town, where they collected their first points back in the English Football League with a win in their first league home game of the campaign. On the other hand, Morecambe suffered a 3-0 defeat at the hands of Mansfield Town at the One Call Stadium. Notts County find themselves back in the fourth tier of English football’s pyramid for the first time since their first-ever relegation to non-league in 2019. Last campaign, the Magpies went toe-to-toe with Wrexham, ultimately losing out on automatic promotion by four points. However, their celebrations wouldn’t be delayed for much longer. A day out at Wembley ended in promotion after an eventful encounter against Chesterfield. The game ended 2-2 after extra time before Luke Williams’ side triumphed 4-3 on penalties. In pre-season, County won four friendlies, against Nuneaton Borough, AFC Telford United, Boston United and Alfreton Town, drew against Shrewsbury Town and lost against Stoke City and Nottingham Forest. Williams has been in charge at Meadow Lane since June 2022 and has taken charge of 51 matches in total, winning 35, drawing 11 and losing just five. Key players to watch out for from Notts County include summer arrival David McGoldrick who returned to Notts County having previously represented the club in 2003/04 and 2005/06. Since then, the 35-year-old has racked up a total of 559 appearances to date, including 63 (and 10 goals) in the Premier League for Sheffield United. A proven goalscorer at any level he’s played, the former Derby County man has netted over 150 times so far in his career. Forward Macaulay Langstaff enjoyed a monumentally successful campaign last time out, scoring 42 league goals and picking up a number of accolades including National League Player of the Season, Fans’ and Players’ Player of the Season and records set for most goals in a Notts County season, most goals in a National League season and most Player of the Month awards in a National League season. At just 31-years-old, John Bostock has accumulated a wealth of experience throughout his career to-date. As well as plying his trade in Belgium, the USA, France and Turkey, the midfielder represented England at U16, U17 and U19 level, playing alongside Jack Wilshere, Andros Townsend and Jonjo Shelvey. On Morecambe's side, some key players to watch out for include Stuart Moore who has played all three games so far this season as goalkeeper. Donald Love is another player to watch out for as he has played all three games so far this season as defender. In midfield Tom Bloxham has played all three games so far this season. Up front Michael Mellon has played all three games so far this season as striker. Ahead of the game, Derek Adams spoke of his awareness of County's flexible approach to different games. It should be an exciting match! We encourage readers to get involved with the Pride of Nottingham match discussion, both pre- and post-match. We would love to know your thoughts! Be sure to check out the Pride of Nottingham dashboard for all the latest content and an easy-to-view glance at the whole site.

Barry Buckley, also known as Super Ram on the Pride of Nottingham site, has been a lifelong fan of Derby County Football Club. Growing up in Alfreton, Derbyshire, Barry’s earliest memories of football date back to when he was just three or four years old. He has fond memories of listening to the football results on the BBC Light Programme’s ‘Sports Report’ with his father. His dad’s Littlewoods Football Pools coupon would also be checked. “I was fascinated by the names of some of the teams being mentioned and my dad’s reactions,” Barry says. Barry’s love for Derby County was nurtured by his dad’s youngest brother, Stan, who was about six years older than him and like a big brother. Stan was obsessed with Rams and would always tell Barry about the history of Derby and its players. “He got me to learn Derby’s FA Cup-winning team by heart, and the nicknames, team colours and grounds of other teams,” Barry remembers. Barry’s first experience watching Derby play live came when he was just a young boy. While visiting his grandparents one Saturday in March 1956, Barry had a fun-filled morning with his cousin Tony. It was during this playful time that Tony's father, Uncle George, proposed a thrilling idea. He proposed taking both Tony and Barry to watch Derby County, but only if Barry’s grandmother granted permission. Although Derby lost and were subsequently condemned to another season in League Division 3 North, from then on, Barry was hooked. Stan took Barry to his inaugural away game in October 1957. This was a League 2 visit to Meadow Lane and a 1-0 win for Notts County. He continued to follow Derby County throughout his life, even when he started working in Nottingham and his manager was a Notts fan. His name was Albert Bramley or ‘Bram’. “We talked about our matches and football generally,” Barry says. “Bram told me a lot about Notts history. He was very proud of the fact that Notts are the oldest football league club and of Tommy Lawton.” This was at a time when Derby were a comfortable League 2 side but Notts were languishing perilously close to the bottom of the 4th division. In the 4th division, teams were not subject to automatic relegation, but those at the bottom had to undergo a re-election process in order to retain their league status. Bram's genuine concern stemmed from the prestigious history of Notts in the league, fearing that they would be penalized as a warning and denied re-election to the 4th division. Happily, Notts recovered enough to escape this ignominy. “There were quite a few Forest fans at work and some were condescending towards Notts. One red fan used to make a point of gloating a bit and asking how ‘the all-stars’ (referring to Notts) had played.” Things were now about to change dramatically for both clubs’ fortunes, thanks to certain persons by the name of Brian Clough and Jimmy Sirrel. In the late sixties, both Derby and Notts would go on to more enjoyable seasons. Barry never lost his love for Derby County. He met his wife Grannypie at work; her dad was a Notts fan, and they would exchange friendly banter and stories. Barry continued to follow Derby County throughout the years, even when he got married in 1981 and bought a house with Grannypie in 1991. However, due to work and then looking after Grannypie, he hasn’t been able to attend as many games over the last couple of decades. One Notts game that stands out in Barry’s memory is a Friday night match against Bury on 22nd February 2013. “It was a very cold night; the first half was boring with no atmosphere; I wished I’d stayed home warm,” Barry recalls. “Bury scored; and at half-time Notts were losing 1-0. The second half was completely different; Notts woke up and scored; the atmosphere picked up; by the end of the game Notts had made it 4-1 and Meadow Lane was rocking. It reminded me of times at Derby’s old Baseball Ground.” “Over the years I’ve seen The Rams crowned as champions of England twice and enjoyed some great European encounters such as Rams’ 4-0 victory against Real Madrid and being 3-0 up in 20 minutes against Benfica with Eusebio playing for them. I’ve been to that place across the Trent River where we lost 5-2 but thanks to Rams TV I’ve also seen Derby thrash that same unmentionable team 5-0. I remember The Rams surviving a winding-up order in the 1980s when they were hours away from extinction and going into administration more recently while again avoiding obliteration. I’ve shared both ups and downs with Notts too, especially during their last few seasons when they came close to destruction and the heart-stopping playoff games and eventual promotion. And don’t forget Munto. Have two teams ever given their fans so much anxiety?” Despite being a lifelong fan of Derby County, Barry has always kept an eye on Notts due to family and work connections. “Obviously I don’t like losing to any team but at least the blow was softened if it’s Notts,” he says. “No animosity at all.” Barry Buckley’s love for Derby County Football Club has spanned decades and shows no signs of fading. As Super Ram on the Pride of Nottingham site, he continues to share his passion for the Rams with fellow fans. Don’t forget to check out the Pride of Nottingham Dashboard page for all the latest content in one convenient overview! Also, be sure to visit the PON Merch online store for exclusive shirts, t-shirts and prints!