⚽Match Thread vs. Newport County 13.02.24 [EFL L2]

[skandark]

25721

[Old_pie]

Oh dear, seems I'm starting another one. We're doomed.

Some changes in tonight's team:

25722

Been beaten to it - pls delete

[Rainbowpie]

25721

Brave, i like it
4 at the back, hopefully not a knee jerk reaction and we've been actually preparing this formation

[matt_magpie]

25721

Assuming 4 at the back, bold move.

[SwalePie]

Subs.: Stone, Mahovo, Chicksen, Nemane, O'Brien, Austin, Morias

[Little15]

Brave, i like it
4 at the back, hopefully not a knee jerk reaction and we've been actually preparing this formation

Nemane has earned being dropped

[BCnotts18]

Back four with Cameron at left back, macari at right back? Or just a back 3 with macari as a right wingback?

I much prefer the thought of the first one.

[Notts78]

Happy that SM hasn’t stuck to tried, tested and recently failing side/tactic.

[Elite_Pie]

Satisfied with that team. It looks a bit stronger defensively with more options off the bench.

[Old_pie]

Bigger image:

25724

[BCnotts18]

Brave, i like it
4 at the back, hopefully not a knee jerk reaction and we've been actually preparing this formation

Didn't we play a back 4 a few times earlier this season?

[Elite_Pie]

Back four with Cameron at left back, macari at right back?

That's my guess.

[PedroTheFisherman66]

Interesting selection! A point would be like a win tonight! COYP

[matt_magpie]

I’m hoping it’s a 4-2-3-1, it’s gonna be an interesting watch.

[Rainbowpie]

Thinking

macari. warner. baldwin. cameron

robertson. bostock

mcgoldrick

Crowley. jones
langstaff

[MancMagpie]

Hoping it's a 4-2-3-1
Cameron and Macari as full backs, Jones and Crowley on the wings and Didzy just behind Macca

[BJPIE]

Well done Mr Maynard
Whilst you are yet to convince me you are up to the job, changing a failing system is the only sensible thing to do until critical players can return
Good to see Chicken back in the squad and maybe my only criticism. In a 4 he is a million miles better than Captain Clown. If Mr Maynard had slightly bigger *******s he should of dropped Cameron and his f****** awful play acting. I don't pay my money to watch him falling to the floor in embarrassing fashion.
Nemane will be more effective on the bench than on the pitch

[MapperleyMagpie]

Well you can't fault Maynard for trying something new. Still no sign of the new midfielder who in his own words said he was fit ready for first team action.

[CamPie]

Well done Mr Maynard
Whilst you are yet to convince me you are up to the job, changing a failing system is the only sensible thing to do until critical players can return
Good to see Chicken back in the squad and maybe my only criticism. In a 4 he is a million miles better than Captain Clown. If Mr Maynard had slightly bigger *******s he should of dropped Cameron and his f****** awful play acting. I don't pay my money to watch him falling to the floor in embarrassing fashion.
Nemane will be more effective on the bench than on the pitch

You’re starting to swear like ECU! Not fitting for a BJ boy (from 1 to another).

[Rainbowpie]

Well done Mr Maynard
Whilst you are yet to convince me you are up to the job, changing a failing system is the only sensible thing to do until critical players can return
Good to see Chicken back in the squad and maybe my only criticism. In a 4 he is a million miles better than Captain Clown. If Mr Maynard had slightly bigger *******s he should of dropped Cameron and his f****** awful play acting. I don't pay my money to watch him falling to the floor in embarrassing fashion.
Nemane will be more effective on the bench than on the pitch

Agreed

[CamPie]

Happy with that, I follow says 3-4-2-1, but I suspect it’s a 4-2-3-1 also. Happy with that and bench does look stronger.

[the_anticlough]

The shape will hinge on Macari's position. It'll be interesting to see. Unlike other posters I hope they play what they've been working on for 2 or 3 years, and get better performances from players in those roles.

Yes, Nemane certainly earned his role tonight. Fans and any head coach have the right to see performances not dip below an acceptable level, and certainly not for consecutive games.

Curious about TAR, who's missing from the bench. Injured? Not training as well as others? Or just tactical? It's looking like he only has 3.5 months left as a Notts player.

[TSANHO]

I’d quite like to see a 4-2-3-1 and especially how Jones plays further forward with fewer defensive duties….not that he hasn’t been playing well already.

Think I’d prefer Macca playing behind Didzy actually, but hey-ho. I’m glad the manager has changed it up at least a little bit, I was concerned that he hadn’t already.

[BJPIE]

You’re starting to swear like ECU! Not fitting for a BJ boy (from 1 to another).

I can assure you, I'm not looking to offend anyone. However, I do feel I can only register the depth of my feeling by using expletives. It really isn't sufficient to to say he'd dreadful, I do wish he'd stop falling to the floor like a pathetic namby pamby buffoon. Though I await further rebuke from those sanctimonius blinkered clowns on here who condone his embarrassing antics.
I will attempt to moderate my language.

[CamPie]

Bracegirdle suggesting it’s a 3 at the back, though I’d expect Macari to be deeper than Nemane so we can quickly get more behind the ball and challenging when out of possession.

[SmiffyPie]

Well, time to crank up the game and hope for a better result than recently. COYPs!!!!!

[CamPie]

I can assure you, I'm not looking to offend anyone. However, I do feel I can only register the depth of my feeling by using expletives. It really isn't sufficient to to say he'd dreadful, I do wish he'd stop falling to the floor like a pathetic namby pamby buffoon. Though I await further rebuke from those sanctimonius blinkered clowns on here who condone his embarrassing antics.
I will attempt to moderate my language.

Not at all offended and understand the sentiment, although surprised by the language as it’s not like you? I wouldn’t say I’m a blinkered clown but certainly I’m not as critical as some are regarding Cameron. The problems recently are less individual issues and more a team problem.

[crazyfists]

Ready on I follow, you're always ahead of me so see you at half and full time ha ha! Don't know how I feel about tonight, could do either way. COYP

[jackal2]

The shape will hinge on Macari's position. It'll be interesting to see. Unlike other posters I hope they play what they've been working on for 2 or 3 years, and get better performances from players in those roles.

I've got nothing against playing a back three, but the problem is we've not got genuine wing-backs. As you pointed out last season, Brindley and Chicksen lacked enough attacking ability to be genuine wing-backs, while Jones and Nemane are too weak defensively. It's difficult to find players at this level who are so good all round. Anyone with that level of skill tends to find their way to the higher levels because they're at a premium. We got away with playing wingers as wing backs last season because we had better players than most teams all over the park, but this season when we haven't had it all our own way we've looked hopelessly exposed in wide areas. I think we've effectively already tried the "just play your role better" option and it hasn't happened consistently.

[crazyfists]

Looking forward to seeing Ashby Hammond. Or am I, not sure about that actually ha ha.

[upthemaggies]

Stall: 4-2-3-1 formation

[CamPie]

Stall: 4-2-3-1 formation

Yep - Macari RB and Jones starting on the right also.

[51Magpie]

Are they going to turn the lights on at half-time?

[upthemaggies]

Stall: Steady start.

[upthemaggies]

This is now the longest we've gone in 6 away matches without conceding a goal.

[CamPie]

Ha ha - Cameron bought a free kick there as per normal. He’ll not always get away with that, endeared himself to the Newport fans.

[CamPie]

This is now the longest we've gone in 6 away matches without conceding a goal.

Frightening stat.

[1955pie]

Frightening stat.

Signs of improvement?

[jackal2]

Bottom line is, whatever formation you play, you've got to go to places like Newport and win headers and tackles and be nasty to play against.

[upthemaggies]

Stags ahead v Harrogate.
Crewe 1-0 up at Stockport.
Swansea 0 Leeds 2

[upthemaggies]

McGoldrick misses from 6 yards out. Brace "Notts won't get a better chance all night"

[CamPie]

Didzy! Misses a sitter ffs.

[jackal2]

FFS Didzy, finish your chances. So important. An early goal would really give the players confidence in what they're doing.

[Glad2BeAPie]

What was that Didzy

[upthemaggies]

GGGGGGGGGGGGOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA Aallllllllll

[jackal2]

Yes!!!! Well done Macca!

[CamPie]

Macca f*****g brilliant, JJ another brilliant assist.

[upthemaggies]

Jodi Jones assist again

[Notts78]

Yes!!!! Well done Macca!

Booooom

[MancMagpie]

Amazing work from JJ

[ladyretfordpie]

Shut your ****ing trap mate, you have no clue what you’re on about. Absolute spazza

and you need to get back in your cage you foul mouthed moron. Just no need for it

[irish_pie]

My ifollow is behind so happy days! We are looking decent... the skill from Jones was simply levels higher than this...cracking finish from Langstaff... looking a little hairy in the backline at times but this is miles better from the pies

[upthemaggies]

First time we've netted the opening goal in an away game since Gillingham in October.

[matt_magpie]

playing really well at the mo with this formation

[irish_pie]

I wonder how many Notts fans are there... you can hear them loud and clear on the stream..making a hell of a noise

[upthemaggies]

Up to 8th as it stands

Barrow losing to FGR!!!

[notts27county]

and you need to get back in your cage you foul mouthed moron. Just no need for it

Just because your name has lady in it love, doesn’t mean you are one ;p

I think swearing is a way of life, deal with it. Or don’t be a football fan?

[hissingdwarf]

As said above, iPlayer is a bit behind, but great goal.
Looked steady so far.
Since we’ve scored though we do seem to be back to passing around the back a little and slowed down?
Need to keep the pressure on and remember 4 at the back means move it forwards quickly.

[CamPie]

Just because your name has lady in it love, doesn’t mean you are one ;p

I think swearing is a way of life, deal with it. Or don’t be a football fan?

But foul and abusive language aimed at individuals is uncalled for and if you don’t understand how offensive “spazza” is there’s no hope for you.

[wiseoldmagpie]

As said above, iPlayer is a bit behind, but great goal.
Looked steady so far.
Since we’ve scored though we do seem to be back to passing around the back a little and slowed down?
Need to keep the pressure on and remember 4 at the back means move it forwards quickly.

Robertson having a great game so far

[hissingdwarf]

Robertson having a great game so far
I’m liking the formation. I started the post regards Cameron and would he cope as left back a few weeks ago…looks like we shall find out.

Robertson will come good the more he plays. Same for Macari.

[ladyretfordpie]

Just because your name has lady in it love, doesn’t mean you are one ;p

I think swearing is a way of life, deal with it. Or don’t be a football fan?

you know nothing about me, all I know is that you aren't intelligent enough to be able to use normal language. It might be normal in your circle, it's a sign of ignorance that you feel it's a way of life. You'll end up being banned on here anyway the way you've started your early posts so crack on

[upthemaggies]

GGGGGGGoooooooooooooooAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAALLLLLLLLLLL LLLLLLLLLLL

[Chicken Balti Pie]

I’m liking the formation. I started the post regards Cameron and would he cope as left back a few weeks ago…looks like we shall find out.

Robertson will come good the more he plays. Same for Macari.

Robertson was just not match fit, like Bostock last year when he first came in

[MancMagpie]

I'm also behind on ifollow...
So forgive me if I'm wrong, but Ahsby Hammond already looking more solid than Stone

[upthemaggies]

Jones assists yet again, McGoldrick taps in

[jackal2]

Oh Yes! Fantastic! 0-2. Didzy makes up for the earlier miss.

[upthemaggies]

Maynard, master tactician

[SwalePie]

Great work and assist from Macca!

[MancMagpie]

Jones assists yet again, McGoldrick taps in
I think it was macca with assist

[CamPie]

Didzy yes! Assisted by Macca although Brace needs better glasses as he gave the assist to Jones. This is great from Notts tonight, although still some iffy moments at the back. And as others are saying Robbo having a great game, putting himself about and great in possession.

[jackal2]

Robertson was just not match fit, like Bostock last year when he first came in

I didn't see Robertson against Mansfield, but in the matches since he's looked a tidy player to me. Gives us something we haven't had since Palmer got injured.

[wiseoldmagpie]

Jones assists yet again, McGoldrick taps in

Assist by Langstaff

[DaveSmithRules]

I'm on iFollow too. We're looking great so far tonight.

[MancMagpie]

I mean...I've been saying this for a while...but Jodi as an attacking player is almost unplayable. Yes, he got all those assists from LWB....but now he's an attacker....he looks dangerous every time and doesn't have to think about defending as much.

[upthemaggies]

Stags have got 5 already, Swansea 0-3 down, Stockport now level with Crewe

[jackal2]

I'm on iFollow too. We're looking great so far tonight.

Too early to get carried away, but the simple fact is that if we stop conceding goals we'll win lots of games, because we'll usually get goals with the quality of attackers we've got.

[hissingdwarf]

Shane McLoughlin Looks dangerous down their right side…Cameron standing off way too much. As usual then!

[CamPie]

Stags 5-0 up!

[upthemaggies]

Too early to get carried away, but the simple fact is that if we stop conceding goals we'll win lots of games, because we'll usually get goals with the quality of attackers we've got.

MK Dons are the only team to keep a clean sheet on this ground so far this season.

[jackal2]

I mean...I've been saying this for a while...but Jodi as an attacking player is almost unplayable. Yes, he got all those assists from LWB....but now he's an attacker....he looks dangerous every time and doesn't have to think about defending as much.

On paper, Jodi without the heavy defensive responsibilities of a wing-back should be dynamite!

[irish_pie]

Famous last words but If we get in 2 up at the break then this is the best half from Notts home or away since early December...brilliant stuff... I see Mansfailed are 5 up before half time!

[Notts78]

Too early to get carried away, but the simple fact is that if we stop conceding goals we'll win lots of games, because we'll usually get goals with the quality of attackers we've got.

I think that was the tweaks SM referred to. He has been proactive in trying to plug the gaps at the back. We can still attack with 5/6 players but hopefully won’t be as open at the back. Playing 4 CB’s gives us more aerial presence too.

[MancMagpie]

On paper, Jodi without the heavy defensive responsibilities of a wing-back should be dynamite!
Exactly!! And the beauty of this system is that we could bring on Nemane to rest JJ if need be. Again, Nemane is another player who is better when not having to think about defensive duties.

[irish_pie]

I have to say Ashby Hamond looks like he has been in goal for us for years, looks so composed

[crazyfists]

Thought we played well. Great goals, glad macca got on the scoresheet again plus good assist. Happy for Didzy as well, his hard work deserves a goal. Baldwin playing well and Ashby Hammond looks more positive. Looks abit more like the old Notts. COYP

Also would like to commend Newport for not hacking down Jones everytime he gets the ball. Some will say naive or that you should do anything you need to do to win but I say I respect a team that plays the game properly.

[upthemaggies]

HT

Stall: Just what the doctor ordered. Exactly the half Maynard would have wanted. Well worth that two goal lead. Notts have looked really dangerous particularly down that right hand side.

[jackal2]

Exactly!! And the beauty of this system is that we could bring on Nemane to rest JJ if need be. Again, Nemane is another player who is better when not having to think about defensive duties.

It will be interesting to see if Aaron is more willing to take on his man when he knows he's got (wide) cover behind him.

[wiseoldmagpie]

Swans 3-0 down HT

[MancMagpie]

That was the best half of football since we beat Morecambe. Long may it continue. Keep to this formation now please Stu!

[upthemaggies]

Wrexham ahead at Sutton, looking to halt their slide before they play us.

[drillerpie]

Jodi Jones on fire. Robertson excellent. No sense of impending doom when high balls go into our box.

Reports of our demise have been greatly exaggerated?

[MancMagpie]

Swans 3-0 down HT

Eek. Got to feel for Luke. Maybe he should change to a 4-2-3-1!!!

[BigFatPie]

Great first half, could maybe have had 1 or 2 more. The formation’s worked well, the newer players have slotted in, we’ve looked solid.

Keep it up lads!

[hissingdwarf]

I know one thing for certain…Newport like their digital led advertising boards!
They’ve got them all over the shop. Top of stands, bottom of stands, half way borders on sections!
I suppose if it’s bringing in the cash for them, but it’s a lot.

Good first half. Played well, kept the ball safely and looked more solid last last few games. SM will be chuffed with their performances so far.

[CamPie]

Great half Notts. Let’s hope under the new regime we can repeat that in the 2nd half, too often earlier in the season we were 1 half wonders.

[WarsopPie]

But foul and abusive language aimed at individuals is uncalled for and if you don’t understand how offensive “spazza” is there’s no hope for you.

Playing well so far, liking Robertson more I see of him.
We could be 3 or 4 up by now lads are really putting in a shift that first half.

[MancMagpie]

Jodi Jones on fire. Robertson excellent. No sense of impending doom when high balls go into our box.

Reports of our demise have been greatly exaggerated?

Looks like the change of system is just the tonic we needed. Fair play to Maynard for changing it.

I still fancy Newport to get a goal or 2 though.
We need to score first next half.

[matt_magpie]

Absolute excellent first half, we look so more compact but with an attacking edge. Thats where I think JJ likes playing most on the inside right and you can tell.

[upthemaggies]

Reports of our demise have been greatly exaggerated?

Would be a fantastic result if it stays like this.

Quite the capitulation if we don't get a draw at the very least.

Not surrendered a 2 goal lead since Halifax away, October 2021.

[Notts78]

Famous last words but If we get in 2 up at the break then this is the best half from Notts home or away since early December...brilliant stuff... I see Mansfailed are 5 up before half time!

Surely it’s the end of December… won back to back games, scored 8 and conceded none. Scoring 6 in the first half of those games.
I’ll take a boring 0-0 second half tho.

[Chicken Balti Pie]

Eek. Got to feel for Luke. Maybe he should change to a 4-2-3-1!!!

He has been for a while now

[the_anticlough]

Jodi Jones on fire. Robertson excellent.



Yes, those two are the pick of the bunch. Robo has been immense but JJ at inside-right has completely thrown Newport.

Interesting that there were ironic cheers for their manager when he finally changed his shape after preparing to match our usual set-up.

Very happy - we still have our attacing ball players and Macari, Cameron and Robo have joined in enough to support them.

[MancMagpie]

4-2-3-1 is the fuuuuuutuuuure!!!

[MancMagpie]

He has been for a while now

Ah right! Maybe he should change back then!!lol

[Notts78]

4-2-3-1 is the fuuuuuutuuuure!!!

Until it doesn’t work in a game.

[Lullapie]

I have to say Ashby Hamond looks like he has been in goal for us for years, looks so composed

Not looking good for James Belshaw though :(.

[ajojones]

61% of aerial duals won, interesting stat from BBC.

[ajojones]

Correction ifollow

[MancMagpie]

Until it doesn’t work in a game.
Well defo.
I think we should be adaptable. We have players that are good enough if we need to change every few games if need be. No need to just continually play the 3 at the back. Especially now it's clear that it doesn't always work in this league.

[SmiffyPie]

Well well, you can play attractive attacking football with 4 at the back. Keeper looks a 100% improvement and Robbo getting better and better. Nervy first 10 minutes but you could almost hear the "CLICK" as they realised they can play a different way but still attack!!

[ajojones]

Well well, you can play attractive attacking football with 4 at the back. Keeper looks a 100% improvement and Robbo getting better and better. Nervy first 10 minutes but you could almost hear the "CLICK" as they realised they can play a different way but still attack!!

Agree, much better tonight in all departments and a relief if we can get the win.

[upthemaggies]

Wimbledon losing, we are back in the play off zone.

[irish_pie]

Surely it’s the end of December… won back to back games, scored 8 and conceded none. Scoring 6 in the first half of those games.
I’ll take a boring 0-0 second half tho.

Sorry mate yes I meant late December.. I stand corrected 😀

[upthemaggies]

Stags score 6.

[60YearsAPie]

Wimbledon losing, we are back in the play off zone.

Much better than being in the Twilight Zone!

MK Dons losing 4-0, Stockport losing 2-1, Harrogate have pulled two back against the Stags.

[upthemaggies]

GGGGGGGGGGGooooooooooooooallllllllllllllllllllllll

[jackal2]

0-3. Outstanding! :)

[CamPie]

A few nervy moments from Ashby-Hammond, dropped 3 in the first 10 mins - but it doesn’t matter - get in Macca!, Jones assist again.

[upthemaggies]

Wow, what a response from four days ago. Surely that's the 3 points in the bag now.

[Old_pie]

Wow, what a response from four days ago. Surely that's the 3 points in the bag now.

Just tell Wedgie-pie to stay away XD

[crazyfists]

We've unleashed macca again! We're back! Stuart maynards black and white army you piessssssss!

[SwalePie]

Stags leading 7-2! Crewe leading 3-1 at Stockpot too

[crazyfists]

A few nervy moments from Ashby-Hammond, dropped 3 in the first 10 mins - but it doesn’t matter - get in Macca!, Jones assist again.

True but I like his positivity, much better. Feel he's an improvement based on what I've seen so far.

[ajojones]

Get in, we'll done Maynard, just the tonic and you have the credit for it. Players look much more composed and confident. Nice to see Nemane and Stone getting a rest. Good work.

[crazyfists]

We're back in the playoff charge YOU PIES!

[CamPie]

Stags leading 7-2!

And Stockport 3-1 down at home. Stags looking good for the title imo, although I hate to say it.

[crazyfists]

He came from BT
But he'll do for me
It's lovely to see
Stu Maynards County

[jackal2]

And Stockport 3-1 down at home. Stags looking good for the title imo, although I hate to say it.

Deserving to be fair. Nigel Clough has been building that side gradually for three years or so, in the way he does. Not a manager to deliver an instant impact, but give him time and he'll produce something good.

[SmiffyPie]

Not really sure about those subs?

[upthemaggies]

Deserving to be fair. Nigel Clough has been building that side gradually for three years or so, in the way he does. Not a manager to deliver an instant impact, but give him time and he'll produce something good.

Stags will need to get over the line before the last 3 games, which look very tricky if they still need points with the late late Flitcroft flop in the back of their minds.

[jackal2]

He came from BT
But he'll do for me
It's lovely to see
Stu Maynards County

Lineman for the County?

[Kyle95]

Best performance of the season so far for me. Away from home to the form team in the league and they're fortunate that it's not 4 or more. Many will know on here i have been desperate to see 4-2-3-1 with Macca wide. This is why, let him roam and he's a nightmare for everybody in this league. It's what i call a specialist formation, you need certain types of players, but i think people can now see how balanced it is. You can essentially attack with 4 players knowing you have 7 players back (including the GK) i'm just amazed it's taken so long to see it's perfect for our squad.

[upthemaggies]

Stags 8 Harrogate 2

[Lullapie]

I've just seen who the ref is!

[jackal2]

Stags 8 Harrogate 2

9-2. Keep up!

[ajojones]

Robertson has been great tonight.

[Lullapie]

Stags 8 Harrogate 2

Harrogate were doing ok before today too.

[Lullapie]

9-2. Keep up!

Stags have only had 12 shots on target too.

[crazyfists]

Lineman for the County?

https://youtu.be/Q8P_xTBpAcY?si=2vro9bROI6YwkhqT

[Lullapie]

It's all topsy turvy tonight - look at FGR v Barrow.

[upthemaggies]

Ooooo Sutton equalise v Wrexham, good for us going into Saturday's game.

[MancMagpie]

423 away fans

[jackal2]

https://youtu.be/Q8P_xTBpAcY?si=2vro9bROI6YwkhqT

Beautiful song.

(Searching on the wing for another overload :D)

[Lullapie]

Wrexham under the cosh at Sutton.

[jackal2]

423 away fans

Should have been 4231.

[upthemaggies]

9 goals for Stags is mental. We haven't scored 9 since the 1940s.

[MancMagpie]

9 goals for Stags is mental. We haven't scored 9 since the 1940s.
Somebody made some bad butties for the Harrogate team bus methinks...

[SwalePie]

Gillingham pushing us out of the play-off places as it stands

[upthemaggies]

If Wrexham can't find a winner, dropping points against Sutton is a disaster for them on the run they're on. Big opportunity for us over there on Saturday, their fans will not be happy.


Edit: And they score as I typed that

[Old_pie]

9 goals for Stags is mental. We haven't scored 9 since the 1940s.

11-1 v Newport :D

Used to be our whipping boys. Not too shabby this season either.

[upthemaggies]

Penalty to Newport.

[Old_pie]

9 goals for Stags is mental. We haven't scored 9 since the 1940s.

11-1 v Newport :D

Used to be our whipping boys. Not too shabby this season either.

[upthemaggies]

Newport 1 Notts 3

[OP67]

We seem to get more than our fair share of penalties against us!!

1-3

[irish_pie]

Clean sheet gone but still an excellent performance

[jackal2]

Penalty to Newport.

1-3. Shame - soft pen they're saying. Just keep it tight now. Avoid conceding anything from open play.

[BCnotts18]

We seem to get more than our fair share of penalties against us!!

1-3

The ref has been pretty poor for most of the game honestly so it doesn't surprise me.

[crazyfists]

Beautiful song.

(Searching on the wing for another overload :D)

Yeah fantastic song mate and some of the comments underneath on YouTube are very nice as well.

[irish_pie]

Hammond got mighty close to saving that...shame but 5 minutes to see this out

[MapperleyMagpie]

Such a shame soft soft penno, Notts deserved a clean sheet

[Old_pie]

Getting a bit nervy with just a few minutes left :?

[upthemaggies]

Stall: 3-1 doesn't do Notts justice how one sided this game has been.

[jackal2]

Full-time. Great win.

I think on balance the tactical change worked! O:)

Maynard era off and running!

[upthemaggies]

FT

Congrats to Maynard, he has to take full credit for that with the changes made.

[CamPie]

The ref has been pretty poor for most of the game honestly so it doesn't surprise me.

I disagree, I think the ref has been fine, not much for him to do and he’s let the game flow. No complaints about the penalty, JO’B was pulling the guys arm for a good few seconds, very clear imo.

[Dunce]

Well done chaps. An excellent evening work.

[CamPie]

Brilliant win, we’ll done Maynard and the 4231 and especially the 423 who made the trip on a Tuesday night in terrible weather.

[TedBovisPie]

We seem to get more than our fair share of penalties against us!!

1-3

Just looked it up awarded 3 to Notts and 10 to our opponents! Something not quite right here.

[hissingdwarf]

I disagree, I think the ref has been fine, not much for him to do and he’s let the game flow. No complaints about the penalty, JO’B was pulling the guys arm for a good few seconds, very clear imo.

This. The ref handled the game well. We’re quick to moan, but for a change, thought it was a well ‘reffed’ game. And it looked clear pen to me on the replay.

[TheBlackHorse]

... sack the Coach ...

[marky]

Really pleased for Stuart Maynard, his first win as a full time football manager.

[upthemaggies]

Late Swindon equaliser, back up to 7th.

[irish_pie]

Absolutely brilliant display, ill he honest and did not see this happening, as comfortable an away win as I have seen in a long time, some serious contenders for motm... buzzing tonight after that

[MapperleyMagpie]

Great effort, great tactical change, well done

[OP67]

Swindon equalised so we're back into 7th, a good night

[MancMagpie]

Late Swindon equaliser, back up to 7th.
Get in, just saw that

[matt_magpie]

Thought we were absolutely fantastic tonight, Robertson MOTM for me and well done SM, took some balls to change the formation and the keeper going away.

[cher1]

Really pleased for Stuart Maynard, his first win as a full time football manager.

Yes, really happy for him. He had a tough start, but had the courage to change things.

[tommopie8]

Good performance. 4/5-1 wouldn't have flattered us. Defended their crosses really well.

Much needed boost before Wrexham.

[uysapie]

Didn't see that result coming

[upthemaggies]

Stags have equalled their record league win, the 6th time they've won by 7 goals.

Sat 09-Feb-2013 5th tier Mansfield Town 8 Barrow 1
Sat 17-Mar-2012 5th tier Mansfield Town 7 Barrow 0
Mon 21-Apr-1975 4th tier Mansfield Town 7 S****horpe U. 0
Mon 15-Mar-1965 3rd tier Mansfield Town 8 QPR 1
Tue 27-Dec-1932 3rd tier Mansfield Town 9 Rotherham Utd 2

[SwalePie]

Top team performance that, including the selection. COYP!

[the_anticlough]

Superb signs at the end of everyone rallying around SM after he got his first win.

Hopefully, that Gills performance was the rock bottom, the players have finished their post-LW downer and we'll be galvanised now to get back up there.

[CamPie]

Late Swindon equaliser, back up to 7th.

Goal scorers for Swindon - McGurk and McKirdy, assisted by McEachran and McCarthy. You’re the stats man - when was the last game outside of Scotland that 4 different Mc’s made goal contributions?

[MAD_MAGPIE]

That was a much improved performance and more like the Notts in the early part of the season. Credit to Stuart Maynard for being brave and changing the system to have four at the back. It worked really well and we were much stronger defensively but also retained our attacking threat. Plus we were away from home as well. I thought the combination of Robertson and Bostock looked strong. Another assist for Jones as well from the right.

The 3-1 scoreline flatters Newport in my view as we could have had four or five, and the penalty near the end was a bit soft.

The referee had a good game as well overall and let the game flow.

The Mansfield scoreline is unbelievable in professional football in 2024. How does a team score 9 goals in a league game?

We can go to Wrexham on Saturday with confidence now. I'd fancy us to get something from that game now.

[60YearsAPie]

Brilliant performance against the in-form team of 2024. Congratulations to all involved, but special praise to SM. The unexpected victories are always the best. Who saw that coming? - ancientpie did; he predicted a 3-1 win! Well played, sir!

[Riverleeno]

The passing and skill we’ve come to expect plus the team looked more determined and some bite in midfield, a well deserved win COYP!

[Riverleeno]

Brilliant performance against the in-form team of 2024. Congratulations to all involved, but special praise to SM
You Pies!

[upthemaggies]

Goal scorers for Swindon - McGurk and McKirdy, assisted by McEachran and McCarthy. You’re the stats man - when was the last game outside of Scotland that 4 different Mc’s made goal contributions?

You've got me there. That's one for AI to work out.

[Stan Marshall]

Well done Notts. A very convincing performance. Let’s hope this shuts up all the SM critics who had already written him off!

[Elite_Pie]

Brilliant result, we really needed that. Great to see Macca back among the goals, and even better to see Stuart Maynard turn things around. Let's hope our form in Wales continues on Saturday.

[MapperleyMagpie]

Really pleased for Stuart and really proud of team tonight we were top class from front to back.

[Notts78]

Brilliant performance against the in-form team of 2024. Congratulations to all involved, but special praise to SM. The unexpected victories are always the best. Who saw that coming? - ancientpie did; he predicted a 3-1 win! Well played, sir!

They have also scalped most of the big boys at home… they ended Stockports long unbeaten record. Beat Wrexham.
It is and should be a huge confidence booster.
Wrexham, like us, seem to be a little fragile at the moment. I’d love nothing more than those that attend on Saturday chanting ‘Wrex, Wrexham are falling apart again’.

[SmiffyPie]

Well he took a couple of games to look at what he had then had the confidence and skill to make a change that was chalk and cheese to what we were used to playing. "Magic" Maynard! Well done Notts.

[upthemaggies]

Well done Notts. A very convincing performance. Let’s hope this shuts up all the SM critics who had already written him off!

If he goes on to achieve a double promotion into the Championship from here, it'll still be one of the craziest Notts appointments that made no sense.

[Notts78]

The league 2 table is nuts… literally 14 teams if not more will still have hope of promotion.

[SmiffyPie]

The league 2 table is nuts… literally 14 teams if not more will still have hope of promotion.Now wouldn't a Notts v Wrexham PO final be tasty!!

[BigFatPie]

Yes, cracking away performance massive credit to Maynard for changing things up and making us look miles better defensively and still threatening in attack.

Got to confess I couldn’t see where a win was coming from, so that’s probably the most important one of the season.

[drillerpie]

Yes, cracking away performance massive credit to Maynard for changing things up and making us look miles better defensively and still threatening in attack.

Got to confess I couldn’t see where a win was coming from, so that’s probably the most important one of the season.

I think you're right that it's the most significant win of the season because of our recent form and how we were drifting out of the playoff picture, but also arguably the best performance of the season because we dominated and looked threatening without giving them a chance from open play.

We've has some good performances away from home this season but often they relied on the opposition missing the chances we conceded. Throw in the huge gap in recent form and that's the most mature performance so far for me.

[upthemaggies]

Maynard, clearly buzzing and unprompted, starts his post match praising the fans for their support in the bad weather.

[DuckPie]

Well done Notts & well done SM
Worked well with 4 at the back, looked more solid.
I thought Cameron played well at LB, and good to see Macca back on form.

[upthemaggies]

Stall noting that Maynard put his head on the chopping block with those changes and it paid off.

[Bohinen]

If he goes on to achieve a double promotion into the Championship from here, it'll still be one of the craziest Notts appointments that made no sense.

Yes, it was inevitable that someone would bring that up. Fao all the Maynard haters etc. Look, he achieved that by growing a pair, not being LW fanboy and being his own man. Ironically, he did exactly the opposite of what he was brought into to do, he was the anti-continuity manager. There is hope, because it took guts to drop regulars and change the formation like that.

[matt_magpie]

If he goes on to achieve a double promotion into the Championship from here, it'll still be one of the craziest Notts appointments that made no sense.

Why did it make no sense?

[optipez]

Delighted for Maynard, didn't deserve anywhere near the abuse he's been getting.

[upthemaggies]

Game 4 in charge was the turning point for LW, for different reasons, but that was the making of him.

Record after 4 league games in charge this century

1. Steve Cotterill W4 D0 L0 Pts:12
2. David Kevan (2) W4 D0 L0 Pts:12
3. Keith Curle W4 D0 L0 Pts:12
4. Steve Thompson W2 D2 L0 Pts:8
5. Gudjon Thordarson W2 D2 L0 Pts:8
6. Ian McParland W2 D1 L1 Pts:7
7. Luke Williams W1 D3 L0 Pts:6
8. Ian Richardson W2 D0 L2 Pts:6
9. Ian Burchnall W2 D0 L2 Pts:6
10. Jocky Scott W2 D0 L2 Pts:6
11. Jamie Fullarton W2 D0 L2 Pts:6
12. Martin Allen W2 D0 L2 Pts:6
13. Chris Kiwomya W1 D2 L1 Pts:5
14. Harry Kewell W1 D2 L1 Pts:5
15. Mark Cooper W1 D2 L1 Pts:5
16. Stuart Maynard W1 D1 L2 Pts:4
17. Gary Mills W1 D1 L2 Pts:4
18. John Sheridan W1 D1 L2 Pts:4
19. Kevin Nolan W1 D1 L2 Pts:4
20. Craig Short W1 D1 L2 Pts:4
21. Hans Backe W0 D3 L1 Pts:3
22. Paul Ince W1 D0 L3 Pts:3
23. Billy Dearden W1 D0 L3 Pts:3
24. Neal Ardley W1 D0 L3 Pts:3
25. Ricardo Moniz W0 D2 L2 Pts:2
26. Shaun Derry W0 D1 L3 Pts:1
27. Gary Brazil (2) W0 D1 L3 Pts:1

[Notts78]

Yes, it was inevitable that someone would bring that up. Fao all the Maynard haters etc. Look, he achieved that by growing a pair, not being LW fanboy and being his own man. Ironically, he did exactly the opposite of what he was brought into to do, he was the anti-continuity manager. There is hope, because it took guts to drop regulars and change the formation like that.

He is still a continuation. The tactics changed but the way we play didn’t. We are still very much a possession based team and that is his remit.
The tactics he implemented in his first few games was based on the players he had at his disposal. Making the changes was prompted by that poor performance on Friday… Stone and Nemane were given the bullet. It could have been more players.

[Kyle95]

Why did it make no sense?

That's the part i'm struggling with as well. Maynard is a young up and coming coach with a point to prove, just like Burchnall and Williams were. The appointment makes total sense, when you consider who our owners are.

[MancMagpie]

Delighted for Maynard, didn't deserve anywhere near the abuse he's been getting.

This.
You can't judge a manager after 3 games. Yes football is an emotional game and we were looking like we were fading , but some of the stuff I've seen online and on here was uncalled for.
I'm sure he'll be a 'crap manager' again though if we lose at Wrexham. Most fans know the score but there's always a few twonks.
Not saying that I'm totally convinced yet either, but I'm certainly not going to get abusive and throw my dummy out.

[Chicken Balti Pie]

The board do not dictate the tactics, just the ethos of how we play which is possession football. We originally switched to 3 at the back under Ardley because 4 at the back was leaking us goals. Burchnall then tinkered between the two but kept predominantly with 3 at the back and this was carried on by Williams. If you compare the defence between the two eras, I'd say 4 now suits us

Ardley/Burchnall

RB - Brindley
CB - Rawlinson
CB - Lacey
LB - McCrory


Now

RB - Macari
CB - Warner
CB - Baldwin
LB - Cameron

We're probably more suited defensively, of the old guard, I'd only take Lacey back but he left because probably his wages and injury record so probably a no goer

[DuckPie]

I thought the new keeper did really well, looks confident, and nearly saved the pen.

[upthemaggies]

Why did it make no sense?

We've done this on the other threads, but if you can list the part time non-league managers (who have done nothing more than consolidate) that have been taken on by FL clubs with any ambition at all, you have a point.

[Notts78]

The board do not dictate the tactics, just the ethos of how we play which is possession football. We originally switched to 3 at the back under Ardley because 4 at the back was leaking us goals. Burchnall then tinkered between the two but kept predominantly with 3 at the back and this was carried on by Williams. If you compare the defence between the two eras, I'd say 4 now suits us

Ardley/Burchnall

RB - Brindley
CB - Rawlinson
CB - Lacey
LB - McCrory


Now

RB - Macari
CB - Warner
CB - Baldwin
LB - Cameron

We're probably more suited defensively, of the old guard, I'd only take Lacey back but he left because probably his wages and injury record so probably a no goer

I said in an earlier post that the back 4 all being CB’s gives us a more physical presence. That said it isn’t an ideal back 4 against a team that has real pace on the wings. I’d be worried if teams had a player like JJ. Thankfully, most in L2 don’t… I should probably have used Nemane rather than JJ as we are talking about the most prolific assist player in L2. Point kind of remains tho

[optipez]

Game 4 in charge was the turning point for LW, for different reasons, but that was the making of him.

Record after 4 league games in charge this century

1. Steve Cotterill W4 D0 L0 Pts:12
2. David Kevan (2) W4 D0 L0 Pts:12
3. Keith Curle W4 D0 L0 Pts:12
4. Steve Thompson W2 D2 L0 Pts:8
5. Gudjon Thordarson W2 D2 L0 Pts:8
6. Ian McParland W2 D1 L1 Pts:7
7. Luke Williams W1 D3 L0 Pts:6
8. Ian Richardson W2 D0 L2 Pts:6
9. Ian Burchnall W2 D0 L2 Pts:6
10. Jocky Scott W2 D0 L2 Pts:6
11. Jamie Fullarton W2 D0 L2 Pts:6
12. Martin Allen W2 D0 L2 Pts:6
13. Chris Kiwomya W1 D2 L1 Pts:5
14. Harry Kewell W1 D2 L1 Pts:5
15. Mark Cooper W1 D2 L1 Pts:5
16. Stuart Maynard W1 D1 L2 Pts:4
17. Gary Mills W1 D1 L2 Pts:4
18. John Sheridan W1 D1 L2 Pts:4
19. Kevin Nolan W1 D1 L2 Pts:4
20. Craig Short W1 D1 L2 Pts:4
21. Hans Backe W0 D3 L1 Pts:3
22. Paul Ince W1 D0 L3 Pts:3
23. Billy Dearden W1 D0 L3 Pts:3
24. Neal Ardley W1 D0 L3 Pts:3
25. Ricardo Moniz W0 D2 L2 Pts:2
26. Shaun Derry W0 D1 L3 Pts:1
27. Gary Brazil (2) W0 D1 L3 Pts:1

So Maynard is Behind Fullarton, Gudjon Kewell and Kiwomya. Therese stats and there's meaningless stats.

[matt_magpie]

We've done this on the other threads, but if you can list the part time non-league managers (who have done nothing more than consolidate) that have been taken on by FL clubs with any ambition at all, you have a point.

Well there’s not going to be many is there as there are usually only 2 or 3 part time clubs below L2 in the NL and usually their battling relegation and that’s where the sense comes from, he was absolutely maxing out from his resources.

[upthemaggies]

Salford now the longest unbeaten side in the division, 7
Bradford City 3 clean sheets in a row, all against current top 10 sides.

Sutton Utd winless in 9 (and winless in 8 at home).

Notts still a lowly 18th on current form, Crewe top, Wrexham 11th on current form and they still have the best home record in the league.

[irish_pie]

Salford now the longest unbeaten side in the division, 7
Bradford City 3 clean sheets in a row, all against current top 10 sides.

Sutton Utd winless in 9 (and winless in 8 at home).

Notts still a lowly 18th on current form, Crewe top, Wrexham 11th on current form and they still have the best home record in the league.

Some very interesting stats there...cheers for that

[upthemaggies]

Well there’s not going to be many is there as there are usually only 2 or 3 part time clubs below L2 in the NL and usually their battling relegation and that’s where the sense comes from, he was absolutely maxing out from his resources.

It's an unprecedented appointment for a club our size and will be one hell of a story if he can make a success of it.
Tonight he's shown his potential.

[ajojones]

Game 4 in charge was the turning point for LW, for different reasons, but that was the making of him.

Record after 4 league games in charge this century

1. Steve Cotterill W4 D0 L0 Pts:12
2. David Kevan (2) W4 D0 L0 Pts:12
3. Keith Curle W4 D0 L0 Pts:12
4. Steve Thompson W2 D2 L0 Pts:8
5. Gudjon Thordarson W2 D2 L0 Pts:8
6. Ian McParland W2 D1 L1 Pts:7
7. Luke Williams W1 D3 L0 Pts:6
8. Ian Richardson W2 D0 L2 Pts:6
9. Ian Burchnall W2 D0 L2 Pts:6
10. Jocky Scott W2 D0 L2 Pts:6
11. Jamie Fullarton W2 D0 L2 Pts:6
12. Martin Allen W2 D0 L2 Pts:6
13. Chris Kiwomya W1 D2 L1 Pts:5
14. Harry Kewell W1 D2 L1 Pts:5
15. Mark Cooper W1 D2 L1 Pts:5
16. Stuart Maynard W1 D1 L2 Pts:4
17. Gary Mills W1 D1 L2 Pts:4
18. John Sheridan W1 D1 L2 Pts:4
19. Kevin Nolan W1 D1 L2 Pts:4
20. Craig Short W1 D1 L2 Pts:4
21. Hans Backe W0 D3 L1 Pts:3
22. Paul Ince W1 D0 L3 Pts:3
23. Billy Dearden W1 D0 L3 Pts:3
24. Neal Ardley W1 D0 L3 Pts:3
25. Ricardo Moniz W0 D2 L2 Pts:2
26. Shaun Derry W0 D1 L3 Pts:1
27. Gary Brazil (2) W0 D1 L3 Pts:1

Big Sam, D1 L3 wasn't he.

[MancMagpie]

The board do not dictate the tactics, just the ethos of how we play which is possession football. We originally switched to 3 at the back under Ardley because 4 at the back was leaking us goals. Burchnall then tinkered between the two but kept predominantly with 3 at the back and this was carried on by Williams. If you compare the defence between the two eras, I'd say 4 now suits us

Ardley/Burchnall

RB - Brindley
CB - Rawlinson
CB - Lacey
LB - McCrory


Now

RB - Macari
CB - Warner
CB - Baldwin
LB - Cameron

We're probably more suited defensively, of the old guard, I'd only take Lacey back but he left because probably his wages and injury record so probably a no goer

Interesting post that, I'd totally forgotten about Ardley's back 4!

[irish_pie]

The board do not dictate the tactics, just the ethos of how we play which is possession football. We originally switched to 3 at the back under Ardley because 4 at the back was leaking us goals. Burchnall then tinkered between the two but kept predominantly with 3 at the back and this was carried on by Williams. If you compare the defence between the two eras, I'd say 4 now suits us

Ardley/Burchnall

RB - Brindley
CB - Rawlinson
CB - Lacey
LB - McCrory


Now

RB - Macari
CB - Warner
CB - Baldwin
LB - Cameron

We're probably more suited defensively, of the old guard, I'd only take Lacey back but he left because probably his wages and injury record so probably a no goer

Agree with you on Lacey, absolute Rolls Royce almost every time I saw him play..injuries destroyed him but still going at Hartlepool which is great for the man

[Mark_Ross]

Well I predicted a 5-1 humiliation for tonight.

Okay, I'm bldy hopeless, but then on the other hand, who would have predicted the Slags to score nine against Harrogate; or Forest Green to win at Barrow etc, etc.

[queenslandpie]

Well I predicted a 5-1 humiliation for tonight.

Okay, I'm bldy hopeless, but then on the other hand, who would have predicted the Slags to score nine against Harrogate; or Forest Green to win at Barrow etc, etc.

I went for 4-2 Notts and it could easily have been. Maynard was always going to mix it up tonight but I was surprised how well it worked.

[matt_magpie]

It's an unprecedented appointment for a club our size and will be one hell of a story if he can make a success of it.
Tonight he's shown his potential.

I get it’s unprecedented with him being part time but I wouldn’t say it made no sense, playing good football and sweating assets is pretty much the Bros strategy, anyway let’s enjoy the win.

[Big_Bad_Bob]

Much needed result and a tremendous performance.

Credit to Maynard for the formation change, and it seemed to provide solidity while rapidly freeing up Jones to run amok having cast off the majority of his defensive responsibilities.

Thought Robertson was superb, Bostock more like his old self with the additional protection behind him, and the 4 at the back coped well with an early Newport bombardment into our box.

To be fair to Stone, he’s had the ball and chain of a difficult season round his neck in recent weeks, but one hairy moment apart, Ashby-Hammond brought a calmness that has been sorely missing. Time will tell if his confidence can hold up better than Stone’s after his first costly mistake.

Another 3 points against a side below us in the table, but some confidence to take forward into the next two as we seek a first win against a (once more fellow) Top 8 side.

Opposition managers will now be looking at how to exploit this change of formation if it’s employed again, but first impressions are encouraging - improvement from front to back.

COYP.

[cher1]

Interesting listening to Macari that he was instructed to warm up away from the other 3 defenders to make it look like our usual formation at the back.

[jacobncfc]

Our best performance since.. Salford away in early September? Thought we were great, good shape and solid behind the ball with a proper back four who all did their jobs, and then a constant threat whenever we came forward. Jones obviously a class apart, but Robertson is getting better with every game and dominated the midfield tonight. Also Bostock’s best performance for months.

Fair play to Maynard, felt like his first real break from what he inherited and it worked well. Enough to suggest there’s still something in this season for us.

[jacobncfc]

Why did it make no sense?

Because UTM is, for some reason, obsessed with the history of clubs, managers and players rather than the future. Still none the wiser as to whether SM will be a success, but it was an entirely normal appointment for a club in our position haha.

[Chicken Balti Pie]

Our best performance since.. Salford away in early September? Thought we were great, good shape and solid behind the ball with a proper back four who all did their jobs, and then a constant threat whenever we came forward. Jones obviously a class apart, but Robertson is getting better with every game and dominated the midfield tonight. Also Bostock’s best performance for months.

Fair play to Maynard, felt like his first real break from what he inherited and it worked well. Enough to suggest there’s still something in this season for us.

I've said it for ages, Bostock needs an engine next to him. Robertson was also lacking match sharpness so these two things may be linked

[SwalePie]

https://youtu.be/VK_1G9ees6M?si=8nYSkFx1VNwM-UgY

[durhampie]

Who says that we can't play our attacking game by playing with a back 4.. Tonight has proved differently ..

[queenslandpie]

Who says that we can't play our attacking game by playing with a back 4.. Tonight has proved differently ..

Damned right durham. However it will be interesting to see how teams set up against us in the future but this manager has a Plan B ( unlike the last one!!!!).

[the_anticlough]

Interesting listening to Macari that he was instructed to warm up away from the other 3 defenders to make it look like our usual formation at the back.

Oh wow, that's a delicious detail, well done SM

[PedroTheFisherman66]

Luke Who ???

[ancientpie]

Brilliant performance against the in-form team of 2024. Congratulations to all involved, but special praise to SM. The unexpected victories are always the best. Who saw that coming? - ancientpie did; he predicted a 3-1 win! Well played, sir!

Thank you sir but I must admit it was more in hope than anticipation, great result & performance. COYP

[OchPie]

Kick off was 4.45am here in Tokyo so didn't catch it, but will watch it back on full replay. Their bored is extremely positive about us.

"Given a footballing lesson tonight. Can't really fault our effort but the gulf in quality was considerable. Their front 3 are too good for lower league football, especially that Jodi Jones."

"We huffed and puffed against the best side in this league. How they are not walking this league is any bodies guess."

"Their movement was quick and decisive and we had no answer."

"They on the night were by far the best side we've played this season even looked better than united on the day"

Sounds like we put in a heck of a shift.

[queenslandpie]

Kick off was 4.45am here in Tokyo so didn't catch it, but will watch it back on full replay. Their bored is extremely positive about us.

"Given a footballing lesson tonight. Can't really fault our effort but the gulf in quality was considerable. Their front 3 are too good for lower league football, especially that Jodi Jones."

"We huffed and puffed against the best side in this league. How they are not walking this league is any bodies guess."

"Their movement was quick and decisive and we had no answer."

"They on the night were by far the best side we've played this season even looked better than united on the day"

Sounds like we put in a heck of a shift.

We were great but in a different way. We just looked very strong in all areas. it was bizarrely solid all over the pitch. Not one bad performance anywhere. No weird defensive calamities only criticism is we should have probably got a couple more.

[Big_Bad_Bob]

Anyone get a clear view of who it was who played the cross field ball from deep in our own half to (I think) Macari to switch the play for the third?

Think it was probably Baldwin, but not certain from initial viewing and not shown on the highlights I’ve seen so far.

Terrific pass.

[Jampie]

Three cheers for the Engineer!

[1955pie]

Damned right durham. However it will be interesting to see how teams set up against us in the future but this manager has a Plan B ( unlike the last one!!!!).
Maybe this is his Plan A. Does he have a Plan B and will he be able to change mid-game?

Absolutely stunning result and performance. . Brilliant.

[matt_magpie]

Who says that we can't play our attacking game by playing with a back 4.. Tonight has proved differently ..

It did, he made the 4231 really work. I was so impressed how the team took to it in such a short space of time of prep beforehand, possibly SM actually utilising his experience of being part time where he knew he had to get short key messages into the team the day before of what they needed to do.
It’s going to be interesting to see if we switch between the 2 formations, I got a feeling we will for certain games but 4 at the back away seems to make a lot of sense.

[drillerpie]

It did, he made the 4231 really work. I was so impressed how the team took to it in such a short space of time of prep beforehand, possibly SM actually utilising his experience of being part time where he knew he had to get short key messages into the team the day before of what they needed to do.
It’s going to be interesting to see if we switch between the 2 formations, I got a feeling we will for certain games but 4 at the back away seems to make a lot of sense.

Question is should we use it at home as well? It's a small sample size but hard to imagine us losing to Gillingham playing like that (especially hard to imagine us conceding the kind of goals we did on Friday).

[caj85]

Question is should we use it at home as well? It's a small sample size but hard to imagine us losing to Gillingham playing like that (especially hard to imagine us conceding the kind of goals we did on Friday).

I think we should. When we changed it against Gills we looked more stable (granted Gills weren't having to attack much).

[SmiffyPie]

We should play it at home as well. LW gave us the attacking skill set and mindset to move from a solid defence to attack in just a few moves (tired of saying it). Not being so high all over the pitch stops the oppo compressing their half and with our ingrained (thanks LW) possession football combined with available space and a more direct forward movement (thanks SM) we should be a very hard team to beat from now on. Don't know about others but I saw a marked change in the players, looked almost like relief that they weren't restricted anymore and could play football with the benefits of both systems. Only one result I know but a transformation!

[TheBlackHorse]

... big moment for me was in the first half, with Robertson winning the ball when surrounded by two (or three?) Newport players ... grit, determination ... just what we need. COYP'S

[The Dug Out]

Our players last night looked completley different to what they did from our last 2 disasters. Could be that SM has found his feet and laying down some truths to them. We have 2 gems with Macari & Robertson running the defence and in some cases midfield, at this rate Palmer will struggle for the shirt!!. Another dimension incoming in is Jaata, maybe in against Crewe as i cannot see him being involved at Wrexham, could be wrong though, looking forward to that. Jones had his best game yet last night, division one standard at the very least.
Well done Notts, Newport are no mugs and would have rolled us given a chance.

[tied_up_in_notts]

Robertson is really starting to look the real deal. Shows once again that you shouldn't judge players on one or two games, but I suppose some fans will never learn that lesson

[kill_the_drum]

Robertson is really starting to look the real deal. Shows once again that you shouldn't judge players on one or two games, but I suppose some fans will never learn that lesson

They won’t.
They think players are machines that have an ability rating and that’s what they play to.
Match fitness, bedding in, confidence, form etc don’t exist.
You’re either good or bad.

[drillerpie]

... big moment for me was in the first half, with Robertson winning the ball when surrounded by two (or three?) Newport players ... grit, determination ... just what we need. COYP'S

Yes there was also a great moment when he was in a close quarters tussle in midfield involving a bit of tugging, a bit of holding and so on, the kind that all too often we lose, and he just turned and powered out of it before surging forward and spreading a lovely ball to the flank. Beautiful.