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The home of Notts County, Meadow Lane, has undergone a transformation that promises to elevate the club to new heights. The stadium, steeped in history and tradition, has had its first full pitch reconstruction since the 1990s, a project that signifies the club's ambition and commitment to progress. Despite the commendable efforts of the ground staff, it has become increasingly evident that the pitch was in desperate need of a complete overhaul. The underlying drainage system and sub-soil base had begun to fail, necessitating a total replacement. It's a testament to the resilience of the team that the club managed to avoid match postponements due to waterlogging this season. "We had massive problems with the underneath of the pitch. Everyone sees it nice and green and lush, but we struggle with drainage," explained Matt Hallam. The board had recognised the urgency of the situation and agreed to modernise the entire infrastructure of the pitch and its surroundings. The comprehensive project has introduced a state-of-the-art drainage system, virtually eliminating the threat of waterlogging. "Many times last year, we had a really bad winter with a lot of rain and waterlogging. We did get lucky a few times, but this really had to be done," Hallam noted. He also mentioned that after removing the turf, "you could see the standing water on the actual soil," highlighting the extent of the drainage issues. Furthermore, a new hybrid SIS pitch has been installed, bringing the composition of our playing surface up to Premier League standards. Hallam elaborated, "We still use perennial ryegrass when we seed, and they probably won't see the artificial fibre stitched in because it's only like 4% of the surface. But it just means it's a lot stronger for us." The improvements will also enable Notts to meet FIFA standards in terms of playable area, positioning us to host top-class football events and other sports such as rugby, should it make financial sense. "We've extended the pitch widthways and lengthways as well so that it gives us a chance to host events in the future if we needed to," Hallam confirmed. In anticipation of consistently lengthy cold spells, an undersoil heating system has been installed. However, due to the costs involved, it won't be connected to a boiler until such time as a number of matches are put at risk. "We're putting undersoil heating in to future-proof it. If we put it in now, there's a choice in the future that we can then just connect it," Hallam stated. These upgrades reflect the club's forward-thinking approach and dedication to providing the best possible facilities for both players and fans. Hallam expressed gratitude, saying, "I just want to say a massive thanks to Jay Hearn, Martin Kavanaugh, and Sean Robinson for all their work last year and with their work here. We're really thankful for the owners putting all the investment in; I think they've been absolutely amazing for the club, and we couldn't ask for more." The tireless efforts of the Notts County ground staff, led by Hallam, have ensured that Meadow Lane is not only a historic venue but now also a state-of-the-art facility. Their dedication and hard work have been instrumental in this transformation, providing a playing surface that rivals the best in the country. The club's commitment to enhancing the ground and facilities exemplifies their ambition and forward-thinking vision, setting a solid foundation for future success. The entire Notts County community can take pride in these achievements, as they symbolise a new era of excellence for the club. The rejuvenated Meadow Lane is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved, and it stands ready to host countless memorable moments in the years to come. Fancy a signed print of your favourite Notts County player from the 2023-24 season? Check out our exclusive prints, which are illustrations done by the Pride of Nottingham gaffer, Chris. Jump in and share your thoughts on all the Pride of Nottingham discussions, become a member if you're not already and be a part of a community that cares about Notts!

In an interview on the Notts County YouTube channel, Head Coach Stuart Maynard revealed his excitement and optimism about the club's summer activities, including four significant new signings and a restructure of the team's leadership. His candid insights reflect a collaborative effort to strengthen the squad and navigate the upcoming season. Discussing the first of the new signings, Maynard spoke highly of defender Matty Platt, brought in from Blackburn. "Absolutely delighted that there was a lot of other interest for him," he said, emphasising the hard work by the recruitment team. Platt's technical ability and defensive qualities stood out. "He's one of the most dominant centre-halves in the division. His defensive qualities have just come on leaps and bounds, and he's a top, top player," Maynard added. Next in line was Jacob Bedeau who, according to Maynard, brings a different skill set. "I think he's athletic; we know that he can overload teams," the coach explained. Noting Beau's versatile play and one-on-one defending prowess, he mentioned that, "There's so much more development within his game. He’s a really good footballer and has adapted very quickly to men's football." Goalkeeper Alex Bass joined from AFC Wimbledon, and Maynard couldn't hide his excitement. "He's probably up there in the top three goalies. We know that he's one of the best goalies within the division," he said. Highlighting Bass's impressive 16 clean sheets, Maynard continued, "We knew that we had to address this in the summer, and Alex was our top target." On the left-wing, Nick Tsaroulla was another significant addition. "He's someone that can play on both wing backs. His work ethic is incredible for the team," Maynard lauded. Tsaroulla’s dribbling ability and defensive strength in one-on-ones make him a valued asset. "We need to make sure we've got strength and depth," he stated. Maynard also shed light on the fresh leadership dynamics, naming Macaulay Langstaff as the new captain and Matt Palmer as vice-captain. "Macaulay Langstaff is infectious. His work ethic, professionalism, and the tone he sets for the team makes him an ideal captain," Maynard said. On Palmer's vice-captaincy, he remarked, "Matt is key to everything we do. He's the glue between the back and the front." The decision to change the captaincy didn’t reflect poorly on the outgoing captain, Kyle Cameron. "Cammy helped massively in getting the club promoted back to the EFL. It wasn’t an easy decision, but it was right for us moving forward," said Maynard, expressing high respect for Cameron's capabilities and contributions. With the preseason almost underway, Maynard shared his anticipation. "Really excited. It’s been a busy summer rebuilding what we knew needed addressing," he said. He assured fans that the club remains committed to its style but hinted at subtle tactical changes. "We want to overload our centre-halves and rotate into different shapes. We've got the right personnel now to do that for us," the coach said. Lastly, the coach touched upon the club's forward-thinking moves, including using the state-of-the-art 'Nest' facility if England progresses to the knockout stages of the Euros. "It just shows the forward-thinking of the football club, not just on the pitch but off it too. It's all about sustainability as a football club," Maynard concluded. As Notts County gears up for the new season, the combination of new talents, refined leadership, and strategic planning makes it an exciting time for both the club and its supporters. Fans have every reason to share in their head coach’s optimism. ARLukomski has shared his insight into Notts County head coach, Stuart Maynard. Give this a read and share your thoughts on 'The Stuart Maynard Evaluation'. We are also discussing this very catch-up with Stuart Maynard over on our forum. Piethagoram has started a discussion about all the talking points - check it out here!

Nick Tsaroulla expressed a mix of emotions as he bid farewell to Crawley Town FC, a club he holds dearly, and joyfully embraced his new journey at Notts County. Nick's tenure at Crawley Town has been marked by significant personal and professional milestones. He shared heartfelt sentiments as he spoke about his departure: "Yeah, it's obviously sad but really exciting to be at a new club. A massive thank you to everyone at Crawley who gave me my chance. We have some unbelievable memories together that will live with me forever. It's written in the history books. It's beautiful to have that to look back on, but now I'm excited to be here [at Notts County]." When asked about his initial reaction to Notts County's nickname, 'The Pies', Nick's response was enthusiastic: "I don't know. It was quite cool and quite nice. It's a bit different." Nick's decision to join Notts County was influenced by the club's prestigious history and ambitious outlook. Despite having the opportunity to stay at Crawley, he felt a strong pull towards Notts: "It's a very prestigious club. You can feel the aura when you walk around. I've played here twice last year, and the fans' energy is palpable. The club's philosophy of playing attractive football aligns perfectly with my style. It's ambitious, and I know I'll improve as a player and person here. Hopefully, I can repay the club with good memories." Nick's move to Notts, despite the drop to League Two, was a strategic decision motivated by the club's ambition. "When a club like Notts County knocks on the door, it's hard to refuse. They're ambitious and don't deserve to be in this league. But we have to work hard for it. I have no doubts about the club's ambition, with the gaffer, the owners, everyone involved. We all want to be higher, and hopefully, we can achieve that together." With similarities between Crawley and Notts' playing styles, Nick addressed how he intends to balance attractive play with effectiveness: "I think just killing teams off. We have our identity, but sometimes we need to adapt to certain teams. If we're all on our A-game, I don't think anyone can beat us. The squad is very talented, and I believe they'll make me a better player. Hopefully, I can do the same for them." Nick is eager to train and play alongside top talents like Jodi Jones and Aaron, who were notable attacking threats in the division last season. "I'm very excited to train and play with them. It's exciting for Notts County fans to have all three of us. I'm seeing a lot of positives and looking forward to playing with them." Discussing his dual role as a wing-back, Nick emphasised his enjoyment of both offensive and defensive responsibilities: "I enjoy both aspects. My first two seasons with Crawley were more about solid defence. I've been educated in both sides of the game." Nick expressed his enthusiasm about working with Stuart Maynard, who is gearing up for his first pre-season as Notts' head coach: "He's a great guy. From my first phone call, I knew I could work under him. He can develop me and take this team up. I believe he can achieve that." As pre-season approaches, Nick has been balancing work and rest to maintain his fitness: "I think it's good to go away refreshed, but I always get the itch to train. I enjoy keeping fit and being strong. I'm just looking forward to getting back and starting well for the season." Nick is also excited about engaging with the Notts County fans and the Nottingham community: "I love meeting fans and building relationships. I had a special bond with Crawley fans, and I hope to have the same here. We entertain them, and hopefully, we can provide that next year." As Nick embarks on this new chapter with Notts County, his enthusiasm and commitment promise a thrilling season ahead for both the player and the fans. Fancy winning a signed print of Notts County goalkeeper, Tiernan Brooks? You have the chance to do so by entering our Facebook and Twitter contest respectfully. Just click on Facebook or Twitter in this message. Interested in other signed prints? All the 2023-24 player portraits have been kindly signed by the players. Get yours today, with FREE delivery! Hurry to make an order as your favourite player might be sold out.

Notts County has announced the signing of Crawley Town’s promotion-winning wing-back, Nick Tsaroulla, on a two-year contract, with an option for an additional year. The 25-year-old departs from West Sussex a legend, having won the hearts of Red Devils supporters during his four-year tenure at the Broadfield Stadium. Board member and head of recruitment, Richard Montague, expressed his admiration for Tsaroulla’s journey: “First and foremost, it’s crucial to acknowledge the deep bond Nick has developed with Crawley since his professional debut in the 2020-21 season. “We understand how much he treasured his time there and is grateful to the club for setting him on his path as a senior professional. "It’s clear to see why Crawley’s fans hold him in such high regard. Nick is an incredibly exciting player – tenacious in his approach, an exceptional dribbler, unpredictable, and capable of scoring stunning goals from seemingly impossible situations. “He's also highly proficient in defensive phases and comfortable playing on both flanks, making him an excellent support for Jodi Jones, Aaron Nemane, and our other wide options. “Nick brings depth to our squad, with over 100 games of League Two experience and a fantastic persona. “He’s going to be a tremendous addition on many levels, and we’re delighted he’s chosen to advance his career with us.” Tsaroulla is a product of Tottenham Hotspur’s academy and spent time with Brentford’s B team before signing his professional contract with Crawley early in the 2020-21 season. A few months later, he scored one of the most memorable goals in Crawley’s history. Just seven games into his senior career, he powered past several Leeds United players to set his team on the path to a remarkable 3-0 FA Cup victory over Marcelo Bielsa’s Premier League side. This sensational finish deservedly earned him the Goal of the Season accolade. Tsaroulla continued to flourish and last season he made 49 appearances, scoring six goals and assisting another six, aiding Crawley in securing promotion via the play-offs. Check out Pride of Nottingham's dashboard page for a quick overview of what is happening on the site, a deep dive into the discussions and share your thoughts on the topics! What do you think of the signing of wing-back, Nick Tsaroulla? Join in with the Pride of Nottingham's discussion as fans share their thoughts on the latest signing.

Notts County has finalised the signing of goalkeeper Alex Bass from Sunderland, adding a talented and experienced player to their ranks. The move, which has sparked excitement among the club's fanbase, is seen as a significant step towards fortifying the team for the upcoming season. In an interview, Bass expressed his enthusiasm for joining the club, saying, "I'm really excited to be here. It's something that I really look forward to. The pull of the club and everything that's going on was a real appealing thing to me, and I'm delighted to be here." Reflecting on his previous campaign with AFC Wimbledon in League Two, Bass considered last season a success despite narrowly missing out on the playoffs. He stated, "It was a good season. I think they wanted a bit of stability after the season they had before, and we did that. Just obviously just missed out on the playoffs, which was a real shame. But on a personal note, I felt like I had a really good season. So hopefully another season here to kick on, and we'll go again next season." Bass's individual accolades, including a close call with the Golden Glove award, were interrupted by an untimely injury. "It was an annoying one. Obviously, personal accolades are really good to get hold of, and unfortunately, I didn't have the opportunity to get that. But there's always next season, and hopefully, we'll take it home with us this season," Bass said with optimism. When asked about the appeal of Notts County, Bass spoke highly of the club's atmosphere and potential. "It's a great club. I played here last season, and it was a great atmosphere, a big club. I feel like it could easily go higher, and hopefully, we can do that next season going forward. You never know; you look at the clubs that have gone up, you can go up again, and that's a big thing that we'll hopefully do here." Acknowledging the crucial role a goalkeeper plays in Notts County's style of play, Bass is keen to embrace the responsibilities. "Yeah, definitely. It's a big position, I think, as a goalkeeper, and you need to have a calm head when things aren't going your way. I like to think that I've got a nice calm head, and I'll just go into the position and really push forward and hopefully have a really successful season," he remarked confidently. Richard Montague, Head of Recruitment at Notts County, highlighted Bass's commanding presence and impressive shot-stopping abilities. Bass concurs, noting the importance of these traits in League Two. "Yeah, definitely. I think, obviously, being in the league last season, I know what it's all about. You've got to be a commanding presence in your box. You've got to come and take your crosses, your punches, little things just to get the ball away from danger. Your centre halves love it when you come and catch the ball in the 90th minute and just kill the game. It's something that I've really worked hard on in my game, to be that commanding presence, and hopefully, that will continue." With pre-season in full swing, Bass is keen to settle in quickly and integrate with the team. "Great feeling, everyone has been very welcoming and glad to have me on board. And likewise, I'm glad to be here. Hopefully, everyone can form a good partnership together and push this club higher up the leagues," he enthused. As Bass begins his search for a new home in Nottingham, his focus remains firmly on contributing to a successful season. "Yeah, definitely. We'll be looking straight away. Hopefully, get up here as soon as possible and go from there. I'm staying over tonight, and hopefully, try and find some houses tomorrow to get settled." With Alex Bass on board, Notts County's future looks bright as they aim for promotion and success in the upcoming season. Join the growing family on PON by considering pledging your support to one of our exclusive membership tiers. Your potential subscription will help secure the future of the Pride of Nottingham. Have a look at the Pride of Nottingham's online web store, where you can find t-shirts and signed prints of your favourite players of the most recent seasons at Notts County.

It’s official! Sunderland goalkeeper Alex Bass has signed a three-year deal with the club, stirring excitement among fans. The 26-year-old arrives for an undisclosed fee after a stellar loan season with AFC Wimbledon in 2023-24. According to Richard Montague, a board member and head of recruitment, Bass was not only the standout goalkeeper in League Two last season but also ranks highly among League One goalkeepers. Montague expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We’re absolutely delighted to welcome Alex to Meadow Lane. Alongside our new defensive signings, Matty Platt and Jacob Bedeau, he’s a commanding presence who will help us address the defensive challenges we faced last season.” Montague added, “He’s a fantastic shot-stopper, having kept 16 clean sheets last season, and he brings considerable EFL experience at the age of 26. His abilities on the ball are crucial for our style of play, and we believe he has a lot to offer.” Bass’s remarkable performance for Wimbledon saw him make 44 league appearances, earning widespread acclaim from supporters. He narrowly missed out on the League Two Golden Glove award to Stockport’s Ben Hinchliffe. A product of Portsmouth’s academy, Bass made 18 League One appearances there before moving permanently to Sunderland. He also has 22 League Two appearances from loan spells with Bradford City and Southend United under his belt. The future looks bright for Alex Bass at Meadow Lane, and fans look forward to watching him achieve great things with the team. Join the excitement at the Pride of Nottingham, by sharing your thoughts on the latest magpies' signing Alex Bass - let us know your thoughts on this. The Pride of Nottingham's dashboard page has recently undergone work with its popular latest content widget. Check out the speed improvements and bug fixes here.

Stuart Maynard, the head coach of Notts County, is gearing up for a challenging clash against Wimbledon and remains focused on securing a positive result despite the team's recent struggles. Maynard expressed his anticipation for the upcoming fixture, acknowledging Wimbledon's formidable defensive record. He stated, "Wimbledon have just had back-to-back clean sheets...that's where a lot of their success has come from...it's gonna be a really tough game." Maynard understands the need for his team to be prepared for a resilient opponent. Reflecting on previous encounters with Wimbledon, Maynard emphasised the importance of learning from past experiences. He commented, "We watched the game back where we lost down at Wimbledon earlier in the season...we know what they're about." Maynard believes that understanding the opponent's strengths and weaknesses is crucial in formulating an effective game plan. Despite Wimbledon's defensive solidity, Maynard remains confident in his team's abilities to create scoring opportunities. He stated, "If we bring our game to the table...we know that we can get a positive result." Maynard believes in the attacking prowess of his squad and encourages his players to be proactive in seeking out goal-scoring chances. Addressing the competitive nature of League Two, Maynard highlighted the unpredictability of lower-league football. He remarked, "There's a lot of competition...teams outside of the top nine can still take points off those in the upper echelons of the table." Maynard understands the need for his team to approach every game with focus and determination, regardless of the opponent's league position. In preparation for the Wimbledon clash, Maynard emphasised the importance of defensive solidity and maintaining concentration throughout the game. He stressed, "We've got to make sure that our structure's good behind the ball...and defend our box well." Maynard believes that a strong defensive performance will lay the foundation for a positive result. Looking ahead to the remainder of the season, Maynard reiterated the team's determination to finish inside the top seven and secure a playoff spot. He affirmed, "The belief's always been there...we really wanna please the fans...and it's about time we put it right." Maynard remains optimistic about the team's prospects and is committed to achieving success in the final stretch of the season. In conclusion, Stuart Maynard is fully focused on the upcoming challenge posed by Wimbledon and is determined to lead Notts County to victory. With a thorough understanding of the opponent and confidence in his team's abilities, Maynard is ready to navigate through the tough encounter and secure a crucial three points. The Pride of Nottingham is gratefully backed by a team of volunteers who unite to help whenever they can. Much of the effort is driven by a single individual. Thank you for reading the article. If you found it enjoyable, you'll notice social media icons floating below this message. Feel free to share them with others who might appreciate them as well. You can join the Pride of Nottingham by registering here. The site is free, and we encourage Notts County fans young and old to be a part of our community.

Sam Austin, the midfield stalwart for Notts County, shared his thoughts on the recent disappointment of the late postponement against Bradford, expressing empathy for both players and fans affected by the cancellation. He remarked, "It was a disappointment...we was raring to go...I just want to sort of say how grateful us lads are for the fans to make that journey." Austin's versatility has been crucial this season, with him adapting to various positions on the field. Reflecting on this, he acknowledged, "I've been playing in probably more positions than I'm used to...I think my best interest is the team at the end of the day." Despite the challenges posed by playing different roles, Austin remains committed to contributing wherever needed. On the topic of limited starting opportunities despite consistent readiness, Austin admitted, "Every player...would say they wanna play every single minute of every game...if that's the role that I've had to play this season for the team then I'm happy to do that." His unwavering dedication to the team's cause shines through despite occasional frustrations. Playing alongside formidable attackers like Jodi Jones and Macauley Langstaff has been a source of inspiration for Austin. He enthused, "It's brilliant...the quality of the boys...it's down to you to get in the position and you know the ball's coming." Austin relishes the chance to thrive alongside such talented teammates. Comparing the managerial approaches of Luke Williams and Stuart Maynard, Austin found similarities in their playing philosophies. He commented, "Ideas from both managers have been really good...the way that we want to play is sort of similar." Adapting to new ideas and implementing them effectively is crucial for the team's success. Discussing defensive responsibilities as an attacking player, Austin stressed, "It starts from us...we have to make sure that our intensity is right as well." He emphasised the importance of maintaining defensive focus throughout the team to prevent opposition attacks effectively. Looking ahead to upcoming fixtures, Austin highlighted the significance of each game in the playoff chase. He affirmed, "These last 12 games are sort of a mini-season...it's really important now to focus on results because that's what's gonna get us up the table." Every match is crucial in their quest for promotion. In preparation for the Wimbledon clash, Austin acknowledged the importance of securing a victory, especially at home. He noted, "We're at the stage now of the season where results are massive...we're going to be doing everything we can to get three points." The team is determined to capitalise on their home advantage. Reflecting on his role as a substitute, Austin stressed the importance of maintaining high standards in training to seize opportunities during matches. He emphasised, "It's important to train to a high standard because...if you're not getting the minutes on the pitch...you need to be ready to come on." Austin reiterated the team's focus on securing positive results in every game, treating each match as a final in their quest for promotion. With determination, versatility, and unwavering support from fans, Notts County aims to overcome challenges and achieve success in the remainder of the season. Join the Pride of Nottingham today! Deep dive into the community and share your thoughts, experience as a Notts County fan and your passion for the club that you love. Make sure you sign up! Read PON member: The Skippers latest blog where he highlights the disappointment in booing the players whilst expressing an understanding but strikes a fair summary of what's happening to Notts.

In the aftermath of the late postponement against Bradford, Notts County's head coach, Stuart Maynard, maintains a positive outlook despite the impending fixture congestion. Maynard expressed understanding of the referee's decision, noting the sudden change in weather conditions. He remarked, "It's frustrating that it was not playable...it affects everything." However, he stressed the importance of utilising the entire squad during the upcoming busy schedule to avoid injuries and capitalise on point-scoring opportunities. With key players like David McGoldrick returning, Maynard sees this as a morale booster for the team. While acknowledging the ongoing recovery of some players, he views their presence in training as a positive sign. Regarding the team's recent performances, Maynard emphasised the significance of senior players like McGoldrick in maintaining a positive atmosphere and setting high standards. Looking ahead to the packed schedule, Maynard acknowledged the challenges but remained focused on taking one game at a time. He urged fans to rally behind the team, believing that a positive result could kickstart a run of wins. With determination and belief in the squad's capabilities, Maynard aims to turn around the team's home form and restore Meadow Lane's status as a fortress. Moreover, Maynard stressed the importance of maintaining confidence within the squad, stating, "It's crucial to keep the belief alive, especially during challenging times. We need to stay positive and focused on our objectives." He also emphasised the role of consistent training and preparation in overcoming obstacles. "We've had a good week of training, and it's essential to carry that momentum into our upcoming fixtures," Maynard added. Addressing concerns about the team's position in the league table, Maynard remained optimistic, saying, "While the gap to the playoffs may seem daunting, we're still in contention mathematically. We need to stay focused and keep pushing forward with each game." Maynard also emphasised the importance of mental resilience during such testing times. "It's not just about physical preparedness; mental strength plays a significant role in overcoming obstacles," he remarked. Furthermore, Maynard highlighted the need for adaptability in the face of adversity. "We understand that the footballing landscape can change rapidly, and we must be prepared to adjust our strategies accordingly," he stated. Looking towards the future, Maynard expressed optimism about the team's potential for growth and improvement. "We have a talented group of players who are eager to learn and develop," he said. "With hard work and dedication, I believe we can achieve our goals." In closing, Maynard reiterated his commitment to leading Notts County to success. "We're facing challenges, but I have full confidence in our ability to overcome them," he affirmed. "Together, as a united team and fanbase, we'll strive for excellence and continue to push forward." This weekend's game against AFC Wimbledon is the current talking point on the Pride of Nottingham. Join fans and share your thoughts on the upcoming game at Meadow Lane in our match discussion. Check out the Pride of Nottingham web store where you can grab yourself a signed player print, featuring the majority of the 2023/24 Notts squad. Including, Cedwyn Scott, Jodi Jones, David McGoldrick and Macaulay Langstaff.

Stuart Maynard, the head coach of Notts County, sat down for a pre-match interview, offering a glimpse into his tactical mindset ahead of his team's showdown with Crewe Alexandra. Maynard delved into the intricacies of facing Crewe's adaptable style, stressing the importance of readiness for any scenario. Recognising Crewe's defensive prowess and their knack for shape-shifting on the field, Maynard underscored the necessity for his squad to be tactically sharp and ready to counter whatever Crewe throws at them. "Crewe are known for their tactical versatility," Maynard pointed out. "They're skilled at switching formations and tactics depending on the opponent. So, it's crucial for us to be well-prepared for whatever they throw at us." Maynard peeled back the curtain on their preparation, revealing that his team had been meticulously dissecting Crewe's various strategies to ensure they're equipped for any twist in the game. Stressing mental fortitude, particularly in high-stakes matches against formidable foes, Maynard said, "We've dedicated significant time to analysing Crewe's recent performances. We've pinpointed their recurring plays and potential tactical tweaks. It's vital for our players to soak up this intel and execute our game plan flawlessly on the pitch." Speaking on their approach, Maynard hammered home the need for clinical precision in both attacking and defensive phases. He urged his players to seize pivotal moments and maintain efficiency at both ends of the field. "Against a side like Crewe, strong defensively and lethal on the counter, discipline and decisiveness are key in every aspect," Maynard insisted. "We've honed our offensive and defensive strategies in training to maximise our effectiveness." Maynard also stressed the gravity of scoring first in such high-stakes encounters, citing its ripple effect on momentum and mindset. Drawing from their comeback against Barrow, he showcased his team's resilience in adverse conditions. "Bagging an early goal can set the tone and give us a mental edge," Maynard remarked. "But even if we concede first, it's crucial to maintain composure and belief." Looking ahead, Maynard anticipated a strategic showdown, underscoring the importance of executing their game plan flawlessly. He exuded confidence in his squad's ability to rise to the occasion and clinch a positive outcome against formidable opposition. "Crewe pose a formidable challenge, but we're ready," Maynard declared. "Our players have put in the hard yards in training, and I trust them to deliver come matchday." Maynard's tactical insights provided a valuable glimpse into Notts County's preparations for the clash with Crewe Alexandra. His meticulous analysis and dedication to refining tactics underscore his drive for success in League Two. With Maynard steering the ship, Notts County are primed to tackle challenges head-on with confidence and determination. All the support shown to the Pride of Nottingham is incredible; we heavily rely on the kindness of donations from Notts supporters and if you are in a position to help please check out this link to see how you can get involved. Additionally, if you would prefer you can support the Pride of Nottingham by purchasing some of our merch. Get a signed print for example or one of our popular t-shirts.

Notts County midfielder Scott Robertson, in a heartfelt post-match interview, took a moment to reflect on his whirlwind journey since joining the club just two months ago. Remembering his debut in that unforgettable 5-5 draw against Grimsby Town, he shared insights into the highs and lows encountered during his time at Meadow Lane. "I'd say it's been pretty good for me," Robertson admitted, pondering his move from Fleetwood Town. "Coming from a situation where I wasn't getting much game time, it was crucial for me to get back into the rhythm of a proper first-team setup." Navigating through the choppy waters of three managerial changes in such a short span hasn't been easy, Robertson acknowledged. "It's been a bit of a whirlwind with the changing management," he confessed, "but overall, I can't complain. It's been a learning curve." Despite the managerial shuffle, Robertson stressed the importance of maintaining consistency in the team's playing style. "We've managed to keep the same approach to our game, regardless of who's been in charge," he noted, emphasising the team's collective vision and stability. Drawing from his diverse footballing background, which includes stints at Celtic and loan spells in League One, Robertson expressed contentment with Notts County's style of play. "I'd say this is probably one of the best setups I've been in terms of our approach on the pitch," he reflected, praising the team's cohesion and tactical flair. While admitting to a somewhat shaky start, Robertson feels he's gradually finding his groove within the team. "I've definitely settled in more as time's gone on," he said with a hint of optimism, underscoring his determination to keep pushing himself further. Looking forward to facing Crewe in an upcoming match, a club he knows well from his past experiences, Robertson remained grounded. "I've had good times there," he reminisced, "but right now, my focus is solely on contributing to our current campaign." Robertson stressed the team's mantra of taking each game as it comes, especially in the fiercely competitive League Two. "We're not getting too caught up in the league table," he explained. "Our focus is simply on giving our best in the next match." Overall, Robertson remains hopeful about the team's prospects, believing that their consistent performances will eventually yield positive results. "It's all about putting in the work on the pitch," he concluded, echoing the team's collective determination to overcome obstacles and achieve success. In sharing his journey and insights, Robertson offers a glimpse into the mindset of a player navigating through transitions, showcasing resilience and adaptability in pursuit of his goals. As Notts County's campaign unfolds, Robertson's presence in midfield will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in the team's quest for glory. Pride of Nottingham's Wheelbarrow repair man has written a feature discussing the loan system. Join in the debate - loan players: good or bad idea? Share your thoughts on the upcoming game against Crewe by joining in with the Pride of Nottingham's match discussion.