Conference trucks::football;1

  Thanks Gary, for resurrecting this.
    
  A short potted history of Notts County Football Club
  
  Formed :  1862 -ish (Actual date is now in dispute)
  
  Colours : Black & White Striped Shirts (With Gold Sleeve Stripe Currently)
  	    Black Shorts
  
  Change Strip : Changes Yearly ! Always used to be Yellow/Green, but is at 
  		 the moment all Sky Blue, or was last year.
  
  Manager : Neil Warnock (Ex-Scarborough)
  
  Ground : Officially the "County Ground", but universally known by it's 
  	   address - Meadow Lane
  	   (Trivia Note - Notts play in the city of Nottingham, but Nottingham 
  	    Forest play at "The City Ground" outside of the city - even though 
  	    the grounds are separated by little more than the width of the 
  	    River Trent.)
  
  Honours : Few and far between ! :
    
  		FA Cup Winners 1893-94, Runner-up 1890-91
  
    		1st Div (Best Season) - 3rd in 1890-91 & 1900-01
  
    		2nd Div - Winners 1896-97, 1913-14, 1922-23
  			  Runners-up 1894-95, 1980-81
                          Promoted (via play-offs) 1990-91
    	
    		3rd Div - Winners 1930-31, 1949-50 (South)
  			  Runners-up 1936-37 (South), 1972-73
  			  Promoted (via play-offs) 1989-90
  	
    		4th Div - Winners 1970-71
  			  Runner-up 1959-60
  
    Rob                                   

    
    The full fixture list is as follows. (Copyright of the Football League,
    and reproduced without permission). Midweek matches are stated as
    Wednesday, but Notts traditionally stage them on Tuesdays, so we'll
    wait and see.
    
August
-------
Sat 17 Manchester United (a)
Wed 21 Southampton (h) (Rumbelows Cup 1st Round 1st leg date)
Sat 24 Nottingham Forest (h)
Wed 28 Chelsea (a) (Rumbelows Cup 1st Round 2nd leg date)
Sat 31 West Ham United (a)

Sept
-----
Wed  4 Sheffield Wednesday (h)
Sat  7 Liverpool (h)
Sat 14 Coventry City (a)
Wed 18 Sheffield United (a)
Sat 21 Norwich City (h)
Wed 25 Rumbelows Cup 2nd Round 1st leg
Sat 28 Luton Town (a)

Oct
---
Sat  5 Manchester City (h)
Wed  9 Rumbelows Cup 2nd Round 2nd leg 
Sat 19 Leeds United (h)
Sat 26 Arsenal (a)
Wed 30 Rumbelows Cup 3rd Round 

Nov
---
Sat  2 Oldham Athletic (h)
Sat 16 Aston Villa (a) (F.A. Cup 1st Round date)
Sat 23 Everton (a)
Sat 30 Queens Park Rangers (h)
Dec
---
Wed  4 Rumbelows Cup 4th Round 
Sat  7 Tottenham Hotspur (a) (F.A. Cup 2nd Round date)
Sat 14 Wimbledon (h)
Sat 21 Southampton (a)
Thu 26 Chelsea (h)
Sat 28 West Ham United (h)

Jan
----
Wed  1 Crystal Palace (a)
Sat  4 F.A. Cup 3rd Round
Wed  8 Rumbelows Cup 5th Round
Sat 11 Nottingham Forest (a)
Sat 18 Manchester United (h)
Sat 25 F.A. Cup 4th Round 

Feb
----
Sat  1 Leeds United (a)
Sat  8 Arsenal (h)
Wed 12 Rumbelows Cup Semi-Final 1st leg
Sat 15 Everton (h) or F.A. Cup 5th Round
Sat 22 Queens Park Rangers (a)
Sat 29 Tottenham Hotspur (h)

March
------
Wed  4 Rumbelows Cup Semi-Final 2nd leg
Sat  7 Wimbledon (a) or F.A. Cup 6th Round
Wed 11 Aston Villa (h)
Sat 14 Oldhm Athletic (a)
Sat 21 Sheffield Wednesday (a)
Sat 28 Crystal Palace (h)

April
-----
Sat  4 Liverpool (a)
Sun  5 F.A. Cup Semi-Finals
Sat 11 Coventry City (h)
Sun 12 Rumbelows Cup Final
Sat 18 Norwich City (a)
Mon 20 Sheffield United (h)
Sat 25 Manchester City (a)

May
---
Sat  2 Luton Town (h)
Sat  9 F.A. Cup Final
    
    Obviously, some of the cup dates are included for completeness only :-)
    
    Looks like a relatively straight-forward run-in (Liverpool and possibly
    the F.E.s excepted), with the honour of confirming Luton's relegation
    being performed on the last day of the season. 
    
    Shame about January/February ;-)
      
    Rob                  

Rob,

 Notts played Mansfield on Wednesday night in The Nottinghamshire County Cup
Quarter/Semi Final. 5 of th team limped off, all I know is that Warnock said 
that they are niggling injuries not that serious. But obviously not needed when
the new season is so close. I can't remember all of the players but Yates and
Cherry were two of them.
 As for the fixtures, I reckon Notts need to win their two home games in August,
get a win or draw at West Ham, beat Sheffield Wednesday, Coventry and Sheffield
United should be wins aswell. If not then they could find the season one hell
of a struggle, especially as more clubs will start to be relegated in
preparation for the dreaded Super League. I can't see them winning at Old 
Trafford or at home to Liverpool, they may get something at Chelsea but they
need to win the rest.


Chris.

    
  Here's a run-down on The 'Pies squad for the return to Division 1 :
  
  Goalkeepers :
  
  Steve Cherry	  Ex-Derby, Walsall & Plymouth keeper who has been a regular 
                  for the past two seasons, and was the hero of the FA Cup 5th 
                  Round win over Man City in February.
  Paul Dolan	  Canadian international, but is yet to get a chance to show 
                  his  skills for Notts.
  
  Defenders   :
  
  Charlie Palmer  Experienced full-back who filled in as centre-half a few 
                  times last term.
  Christian Short Former England schoolboy international signed for �100,000 
                  from Scarborough during last season.
  Alan Paris	  Left-back acquired from Leicester earlier this year.
  Richard Dryden  Left-back come left-winger joined in the close season from 
                  Exeter for �250,000.
  Craig Short	  23 year-old centre-half who has attracted the attention of a 
                  number of 'big-name' clubs.
  Dean Yates	  Former England U-21 international who is the clubs longest 
                  serving player despite only being 23.
  David Norton	  Ex-Villa man who has yet to gain a regular slot. Currently 
                  on the transfer list.
  Don O'Riordan	  At 34, the old-man of the team, but invaluable as sweeper in 
                  last years success.
  
  Midfield    :
  
  Dean Thomas	  Former Wimbledon utility player who spent some time at 
                  left-back last year.
  Phil Turner	  Club captain, and central midfield work-horse.
  Mark Draper	  20 year-old playmaker who established himself as a regular 
                  last year, and was rewarded by gaining England u-21 
                  recognition.
  Phil Robinson	  Transfer-listed ex-Wolves man, not likely to get many 
                  chances in the team.
  Paul Harding	  The ex-Barnet plasterer has a bit of a reputation as a hard 
                  man, but showed in the cup defeat at Spurs his ability to 
                  close-mark and take some stick.
  Gary Chapman	  Forward-playing midfielder also seeking a transfer.
  Mark Telford	  Youngster yet to break into the side.
  
  Stikers     :
  
  Kevin Bartlett  A sharp turn of pace and great strength are the hallmarks of 
                  the former Cardiff and West-Brom man.
  Tommy Johnson	  The third England U-21 international in the line-up, Tommy 
                  is the darling of the crowd, and has finished top-scorer in 
                  both of the last two years' promotion campaigns.
  Gary Lund	  Out of favour, and seeking a transfer, but 'still part of my 
                  plans' according to Warnock.
  David Regis	  Joined with Harding from Barnet mid-way through last season, 
                  brother of Cyrille, and cousin of John, his 18 goals were a 
                  major factor in County's finishing flourish.
  
  As you can see, somewhat lightweight in terms of numbers and experience at 
  the top level, but Warnock and his right-hand man Mick Jones have an 
  excellent track record in getting the best out of 'ordinary' players. If 
  their are problems with injuries, this will undoubtedly expose the 
  weaknesses, and there can only be limited funds available for new staff, 
  particularly on County's gates.
  
  Rob
  Prediction for the year - Will be lucky to escape a quick return to 
  Division 2. 

    
    
  >Kevin Bartlett  A sharp turn of pace and great strength are the hallmarks of 
  >                the former Cardiff and West-Brom man.
    
    
    	Is this Kevin Bartlett, black and originally from the
    	Pompey area ?? 
    
    	If so i've played against him a few times.

  RE:      <<< Note 39.5 by UFHIS::TLACEY "A crime in the wink of an eye" >>>
                         -< Would be about 26/7 now. >-
     
 >>   	Is this Kevin Bartlett, black and originally from the
 >>   	Pompey area ?? 
    
    
    That's him - have the bruises gone yet ;-)
    
    Rob

    
    
    
    	Never got any bruises, i could never catch the bugger.

>>       <<< Note 39.7 by UFHIS::TLACEY "A crime in the wink of an eye" >>>
>>          -< Is he any good ?, he was leagues above the rest of us. >-
    
    - Kevin Bartlett
    
    If he had half a brain and knew the offside laws, he'd be a
    world-beater ! As it is, he can't claim an automatic place even in
    County's line-up.
    
    Rob

    
    Saturday 17th August
    
    Manchester United (1) 2   Notts County (0) 0
    
    Hughes 40 mins
    Robson 57
    
    Attendance : 46,278 - Highest of the day, obviously clamouring to see
    			  the return of The 'Pies to Division 1 ;-)
    
    Notts' team :
    
    Cherry, Palmer, Paris, Craig Short, Yates, O'Riordan (Bartlett 51),
    Thomas, Turner, Regis, Draper, Johnson
    
    Report :
    
    Not the best start to the season, but hardly unexpected. County were
    apparently at least a match for United until 5 minutes from half-time
    when a right wing cross brushed off Regis's head, and landed at the
    feet of Hughes unmarked on the six-yard line. Unfortunately, he doesn't
    miss those.
    
    After the break, Robson added a second with a spectacular 20-yard
    volley, and from then on it was all United. Only Cherry, it would seem,
    prevented a massacre.
    
    Encouraging reports in the press, though many comments on the lack of
    fire-power, which we most certainly will need in the First. We could
    also do without Warnock getting into Ref-bashing mode; we don't want to
    take on Luton's mantel of being the most-hated club in the land. [Even
    if in this case the ref was George Courtney :-) - actually, thinking
    about it, Liverpool's No. 1 fan is hardly likely to do United any
    favours is he ?]
    
    Rob

    A brief resumee (Can't work out how to get an accent) of where we were
    up to before the disk crash rid this note of those 'brilliant, unbiased
    reports' :-)
    
August
-------
Sat 17 Manchester United (a)	L 0-2
       See 39.9 for report
    
Wed 21 Southampton (h)		W 1-0	Yates
       A scrappy, ill-tempered game won by Deano's late header
    
Sat 24 Nottingham Forest (h) 	L 0-4
       After a good first hour, Notts fall apart and UREDS go on the rampage
    
Wed 28 Chelsea (a) 		D 2-2	Johnson, Bartlett
       County go 2-0 up, but let Chelsea off the hook
    
Sat 31 West Ham United (a)	W 2-0   Bartlett (2)
       A comfortable win over a very lacklustre 'Ammers side

Sept
-----
Wed  4 Sheffield Wednesday (h) 	W 2-1   Johnson (2,1 pen)
       A close game won for the 'Pies by Tommy Johnson's late strike
    
Sat  7 Liverpool (h)		L 1-2   Johnson
       Creditable performance, but sub Rosenthal turns the game for the
       'Pool
    
    Rob

    
    Saturday 20th September :
    
    Coventry City (0) 1	 Notts County (0) 0
    Furlong 47
    
    Attendance : 10,635
    
    Team : Cherry, Palmer (Chris Short 58), Paris (Regis 66), Craig Short,
    	   Yates, Draper, Thomas, Turner, Dryden, Bartlett, Johnson
    
    Report :
    
    A poor game by all accounts settled by a scrappy goal just after the
    break. Notts were equal to the Sky Blues in everything but the vital
    element of 'Puttin' ball in t'net' ; Bartlett twice striking the
    woodwork.
    
    Other snippetts :
    
    County have signed former Swindon, Villa, and Bari striker Paul Rideout
    from Southampton for 250,000 pounds.
    
    Mark Draper and Tommy Johnson both played for England U-21's against
    Germany. Both, along with Paul Warhurst, were described as the
    successes of the game, with Johnson notching the first goal in the 2-1 win.
    
    Rob

    
    Tuesday 17th September :
    
    Sheffield United (0) 1  Notts County (0) 3
    Agana 69		    Bartlett 75, 77
    			    Rideout 81
    
    Attendance : 19,375
    
    Team : not known, other than the fact that Paul Rideout made his debut.
    
    Report :
    
    An excellent performance from the 'Pies, fighting back after falling
    behind midway through the second half. 
    
    Bartlett's 4th and 5th goals of the season were followed by Rideout
    scoring on his debut to crown a personal performane descibed on Radio 5
    as 'superb'.	
    

    rob,
    i love your new persoanl name...
    Ian.
    

    
    It's been a while since I updated this note; partly due to pressure of
    work, but also, I must say due to depression at the slump in Notts'
    fortunes. The following is a summary of the last few games :
    
    September
    ---------
    
    Sat 21  Norwich City (h)		D 2-2	Rideout, Bowen (o.g.)
    	    A dubious late penalty denies County the win, though the draw
    	    was a fair result - fuller report in the Norwich note.
    
    Tue 24  Port Vale (a) Rumbelows Cup	L 2-1	Johnson
    	    A late Tommy Johnson strike gives County an away goal to take
    	    into the home leg of this second round tie.
    
    Sat 28  Luton Town (a)		D 1-1	Johnson (pen)
    	    A penalty 2 minutes from time gains the 'Pies a point they
    	    scarcely deserve.
    
    October
    -------
    Sun  6  Manchester City (h)		L 1-3	Thomas
    	    Despite dominating this game for long periods, County fall to
    	    two Clive Allen strikes, and have scorer dean Thomas sent off for
    	    handball to add to the misery.
    
    Tue  8  Port Vale (h) Rumbelows Cup	W 3-2	Bartlett (2), Johnson (Pen)
    	    County hand Vale a trip to Liverpool in the 3rd Round by
    	    conceding goals either side of half-time, and falling to the 
    	    away goals rule.
    
    Sat 19  Leeds United (h)		L 2-4	Lund, Johnson
    	    County score first and last in this competitive encounter, but
    	    the leaky defence concedes four more goals.
    
    Tue	22  Sheffield United (a) ZDS Cup  D 3-3  Bartlett, Draper, Slawson
    	    Notts go through 6-4 on penalties. Who is Slawson ??
    
    Rob
    

  Saturday October 26th
  
  Barclays League Division 1
  
  Arsenal (0) 2	  Notts County (0) 0
  Smith 70
  Wright 75
  
  Attendance : 30,011
  
  Team : 			1.Cherry
  	
  	2.Palmer	4.Johnson	5.Yates		10.Dryden
  			 (Michael)
  				3.Parris
  	
  			6.Draper	7.Thomas
  				8.Turner
  
  		9.Rideout			11.Johnson	
  						   (Tommy)
  
  Subs - Harding (for Yates) 28 mins
  	 Bartlett (For Tommy Johnson) 67 mins
  
  Report :
  
  I made my way to Highbury on Saturday with some trepidation, having read 
  about the Notts' defence propensity for leaking goals, and set to face the 
  most free-scoring attack in the league. Mr. McCabe assured me during our 
  pre-match drink that a massacre wasn't on the cards, and after 25 minutes of 
  the game I was beginning to believe him.
  
  However, shortly after that County, already without centre-back Craig Short 
  through injury lost their other main-stay when Dean Yates damaged his knee 
  and was replaced by Paul Harding. (Amusingly announced on the tannoy as 
  Kevin Bartlett - not much difference really, they're both c!*p - but Harding 
  is white !). Given that Harding is a midfield man, I was somewhat 
  non-plussed by Warnock's re-organisation, pulling Rideout back to mark 
  Smith, and putting the sub up front (No doubt wanting to see him improve on 
  the solitary goal he's scored for the club :^?)
  
  The next 15 minutes saw Arsenal step up a gear and it was remarkable that 
  the game remained scoreless upto half-time. Wright, having already seen 
  Cherry deny him with a fine one-handed save, had another effort tipped over 
  by the keeper, and from the resulting corner Merson's attempt was cleared 
  off the line, and Pates thundered a volley against the bar. Wright also 
  struck a post in a period of intense pressure. Meanwhile at the other end, 
  Tommy Johnson outpaced Tony Adams (some achievement) only to shoot weakly 
  wide.
  
  The second half, if anything was even more one-sided, and The Gooners got 
  their just desserts in the 70th minute when Smith turned in a Limpar cross. 
  Wright wrapped it up five minutes later running onto a fine through ball and 
  beating Cherry from the edge of the box. That was it bar the shouting - 
  "Come On U Reds" prompted the scoreboard, and the North Bank duly read the 
  words from the electronic lights ;-) - except for Seaman's contribution of 
  blocking a Thomas free-kick.
  
  County have a lot to do to survive, the chances are not being created that 
  will relieve the beleagured defence, and too many midfield balls are going 
  astray. But for Cherry, a massacre may well have occurred. I'm still not 
  happy with Palmer at right back, and cover for the two big men looks 
  lacking, though Michael Johnson could not have had a greater test on his 
  debut than that of marking Ian Wright.
  
  As for Arsenal, I think Mike must have spiked that pre-match pint. I found 
  myself enjoying watching their play; Smith is everything you could ask for 
  in a centre-forward, and Ian Wright was by light years the most skilful man 
  on the park (Sorry Stuart). In this form, Arsenal are irresistable, and 
  should be the model for clubs like County to aspire to. They can even afford 
  the indivualist style of Merson, and the in-and-out play of Limpar, 
  especially when the opposition allows, as County did, Dixon and Winterburn 
  to play as wide midfield men. Only in Adams and Davis could I pick fault, 
  but those weaknesses were not exploited by The 'Pies.
  
  It pains me to say it, being a partisan 'anti-Southener' when it comes to 
  football The Gunners just have to be the team to beat. 
  
  Rob
  
  PS. I thought the referee, Mr. Gunn from Sussex, had an excellent game 
  though there may be an opportunity for an entrepreneurial horologist to 
  sponsor him - the first half included four minutes of added time, despite 
  only one short stoppage, yet the second half ran just 90 seconds over 
  following four incidents stopping play each of more than a minute duration. 
  Maybe, he just felt sorry for County, and wished to prevent any further 
  mauling :-)

    
    Transfer News :
    
    David Regis is having talks with Fulham and Plymouth about a possible
    move away from the Lane. The fee is in the region of 200,000 pounds -
    not bad for someone we paid 25,000 for only a year ago.
    
    Calling Gerry Maguire :
    
    Oldham at home on Saturday - 3 victories last season against T' Latics
    in Nottingham. Another this time is vital to lift us out of the gloom.
    'Killer' returns to Nottingham at the peak of his form I see; another
    own goal will do nicely Brian. ;-)
    
    Rob
    

    
    Hi ROB ,
    
    
    firsty congratulations on your promotion last year . 
    
    And secondly whats this Phil Turner like . There's a very strong rumour
    that he night be Joining the BORO in the next few days . Apparently the
    PIES have a replacement lined up and need to sell him to raise the cash
    .
    
    Bill.

    
    Thanks Bill,
    
    Turner is a sound workmanlike midfield man, who covers a lot of ground
    and always gives at least 100%. I guess he is a good motivator too as
    he skippered the team for the last couple of years, and did on Saturday
    in the absence of Craig Short.
    
    He's no individual genius, and I don't believe he is what we need for
    Division 1 but I'm sure he would serve Boro' well in their quest for
    Super-League status.
    
    I'm intrigued as to who the replacement might be - with 200K for Regis
    and I'd guess 100-150K for Turner, we can probably afford someone with
    a decent reputation.
    
    Good Luck,
    
    Rob

    whats happened to the 'Pies?
    do they need warming up?
    Ian.
    

    
    I'm shocked - The 'Pies must mean business - they've apparently turned
    down bids from both money-bags (Pickering and Walker) of �2.5M for
    Craig Short
    
    More news when I get the time, or can be bothered.......

    
    Ando,
    
    have Notts moved to a new ground ?
    
    I saw the Sunderland goals on the box last night and grotty little dive
    seems to have changed completely - where's the famous brick wall, the
    ancient stand built in 1862 and the wind-swept open terrace where they
    used to cram 4,000 away supporters under the floodlight ?
    
    I'm gutted !!!
    
    Paul

    Warnock has parted company with County according to the radio at lunch
    time.  I bet he's glad he turned down all those big money offers from
    Spurs that he got the year County were promoted.
    
    		Brian.

    Boys, Boys !!!
    
    This note won't be able to cope with the influx of replies ! One at a
    time....
    
    Paul,
    
    Notts are still at Meadow Lane, but over the summer they demolished two
    sides of the ground and built brand new stands. On the third side ( the
    infamous brick wall, they built a stand around and above it.
    
    What the cameras didn't show, was the inconguity of the Main Stand
    built in 1910, still in place. If the money is provided, this will be
    replaced in the close season.
    
    Oh, and we got Derby County to pay for them.
    
    
    Brian,
    
    Thanks for that snippet of news; I was up in Nottingham over Christmas,
    and it seemed then that he had lost the support of the fans. I can't
    say I'm sorry; he did extremely well on limited resources to get the
    club into the [old] First division, but his policy of changing the team
    to suit the opposition did not lend itself to any sort of consistency.
    
    I wouldn't be surprised to see an appointment from within the club as a
    replacement - either Mick Walker, the coach, unless Warnock finds
    another job and poaches him, or Don O'Riordan. The name the fans will
    want however, is Don Masson. I wouldn't have thought however, that he'd
    choose managing The 'Pies ahead of winters in Spain, and his tennis
    coaching. Maybe even Martin O'Neill ?
    
    Cheers,
    
    
    Rob 

    There is no chance of getting Martin O'Neill from Wycombe.  In all
    honesty County could not afford him - he is getting big big money at
    Wycombe.  Anyway after turning down offers over the last two years he
    is not about to leave Wanderers while he is on the brink of taking them
    into the Football League.
    
    		Brian.

        I hope that County can wallop Sunderland on Saturday.  Not for 
        Birmingham's sake but for the sake of sending Sunderland down.
        That would almost be as great as seeing Birmingham go down.
    
        Are there no Birmingham fans in Digital I can wind up?
    
        Barry

    Barry,
    
    So do I now after the disaster at Derby last night.
    
    Come on Charlton, Bristol City, West Ham, and Luton....
    
    ...and may we score more goals on Saturday than Southend.
    
    Rob

    
    Ando,
    
    you're still on for the unique double - relegation for Notts and you to
    finish bottom in Fantasy_football. May I be the first to offer you Man
    Utdish congratulations on your remarkable achivements.....
                                                                      
    Paul

    
    I hope County stuff the Makems at the weekend, would round a fabulous
    season for me ;-)
    
    Oh and Paul, so much for NUFC blowing up, eh? Looking forward to 6
    points off you next season ;-)
    
    Tim

    Watto,
    
    I think you're being a *bit* premature there.....I may yet escape from
    half of the dreaded double.....
    
    With Robins, Le Tissier, White, and Wilkinson all set to score
    hat-tricks on Saturday, at least I'll move up the Fantasy League ;-)
    
    ....shame about the 'Pies though :-(....now *IF* Charlton beat
    Birmingham, *AND* Bristol City trounce Brentford.......
    
    Nah, forget it; it's too much to contemplate, just where is Barnet's
    ground ?
    
    Rob (aka Ando, aka TGO)
     

    Rob,
    
   >>>  just where is Barnet's ground ?
    
    Get the tube to High Barnet, walk down the hill to the pub (I think
    it's called the Red Lion) and the ground's on the right behind a few
    houses - you'll feel at home there, Underhill's a real dump as
    well..... :-)
    
    A couple more years and you may be able to see Notts playing at
    Southport (promoted to the conference this season) - so you may fulfill
    your life's ambition and finally see them win on Merseyside..... :-)
    
    Paul
                                         

    re: .25
    
    >Are there no Birmingham fans in Digital?
    
    Of course there are. We just keep a low profile.
    
    I hope Southend and Cambridge go down, if that combination is possible.
    It would be sad to see both Nottingham teams get relegated in the same
    season.
    
    As for Birmingham, I suspect we'll be challenging for promotion next
    season wherever we end up.
    
    - Dave

    Dave
    
    I have to admire you.  Admitting to liking them?  Why don't you start a
    Birmingham City note.  I sure I could give you a guide to Div 2 to
    start it off.  
    
    Notts County got a bit of a humping yesterday.  I was pleased at that
    cos that means you MUST beat Sunderland.
    
    Good Luck Notts County, Southend, Brentford and better not forget
    Cambridge.  
    
    
    Barry

    
    Barry, is there any reason why you don't like Sunderland?
    
    Just curious.
    
    Tim

    No reason, just hate them.  One of those things.  Mind you I don't like
    Newcastle either.  I was hoping you would blow it and Portsmouth would
    be champions but you do deserve it.  Well done from West Brom
    supporters.
    
    Actually thinking about it, you did give us Andy Hunt... Your not too
    bad after all.
    
    
    Barry

    Prediction for tomorrow....
    
    Notts Co  1  Sunderland 2 !!

      
     What has this Serjeant been smoking?
    
    
     My predictions for tomorrow
    
     Notts County   4    Sunderland   1
     Bristol City   0    Brentford    2
     Southend       1    Luton Town   0
     West Ham       1    Cambridge    2
     Birmingham     0    Charlton     1
    
     BOTTOM 3 WILL LOOK LIKE THIS...
    
     Sunderland
     Birmingham 
     Bristol Rovers
    
     Great ain't it...
    
     Remember you saw it first...
    
    
     
     Barry
     

    >>  <<< Note 39.35 by PEKING::SERJEANTS "Don't end up a Victim of Love" >>>
    >>                     -< and down they go.... >-

    >> Prediction for tomorrow....
    
    >> Notts Co  1  Sunderland 2 !!
    
    That's OK !.....
    
    ....as long as it's also :
    
    Southend 0 Luton 1, and
    West Ham 1 Cambridge 0
    
    Rob

    
    Well I hope Sunderland survive.  I'd also like to see Birmingham
    and Notts County stay up.  I hope Cambridge go down and any one of
    Brentford or Southend.
    
    Gary.

Well we live to fight another season in the first division if only to beat
Forest.


                                      nigel.

    Nigel,
    
    You've been quiet for a long while !!
    
    >>    <<< Note 39.39 by BAHTAT::WESTLAKE "studmuffin" >>>
    >>                       -< just survived (PHEW) >-
    
    I don't want to put a damper on things, but I noticed a story in
    Saturday's Independent that suggested County may be fined, and more
    importantly, have points deducted for the way they conducted the 
    signing of Bob Caitlin, and another Aussie last year.
    
    If it's true, I just hope it's no more than 3 !
    
    Oh, and Villa are in the same boat regarding Bosnich.
    
    Rob

    
    Is it any wonder it's so quiet in here these days ?

    
    A rare sortie in write mode :
    
    Millwall 2 Notts County 0
    
    My first game of the season, and a first trip to The New Den/South
    London Stadium/Senegal Fields.
    
    Well, I have to say, it's a very neat ground with brilliant viewing,
    and far less intimidating than Cold Blow Lane was.
    
    What a shame therefore, that the football was such total crap (from
    both teams). Apart from the ten minutes following Millwall's first - an
    apparently dubious [though it looked one to me] penalty, and the last 
    five minutes of the game, the rest was mind-numbingly appalling; lacking 
    in passion, skill and endeavour.
    
    If this was a representative sample of the fare both teams are serving
    up, then I don't fancy their chances of staying in the Division, let
    alone pushing for promotionm.
    
    County were particularly inept, playing a formation that one might call
    fluid being polite, otherwise a shambles; it ranged form 6-3-1 to 3-3-4
    depending on whether they were defending or trying to attack. For the most
    part, however, it was irrelevant, as the centre-backs hoofed the ball 60
    yards downfield as soon as they got near it. And why was Kevin Wilson,
    a goalscorer at International level (albeit with N. Ireland) playing at
    left-back, whilst the leading scorer McSwegan sat on the bench for 70
    minutes.
    
    A dismal evening indeed, with the despair compounded by allowing Forest
    to climb above us in the table.
    
    Rob
    
     

    
    Well, it's been 20 years since I last visited San Selhurst, so I
    thought it about time that I checked the place out again last Sunday.
    Not a lot seems to have changed on the face of it, other than the 
    appearance of the ubiquitous Executive boxes as part of the Sainsbury's
    redevelopment. But then again my memory may have been clouded by the
    result in '73 when The 'Pies, newly promoted from Division 3 destroyed
    the F.E's, just relegated form the first, by 4 goals to 1.
    
    Needless to say, given County's recent away form, I was not expecting a
    repeat performance this time. The day didn't start to wonderfully
    either, with a slight marital 'difference-of-opinion' resulting in
    Sunday lunch being arranged for 4 families, and precluding meeting up
    with Paneso and the Boys for a pre-match livener.
    
    Anyway, that over, we arrived at the ground at about 2.40 and headed
    for the nearest gate. This just happened to be the Away supporters
    enclosure, so I decided to expose my 3 pals to a slice of Nottingham
    humour, and we stood with the massed (NOT!) County fans.
    
    County started brightly, and did not look at all overawed by facing
    arguably the strongest side in the Division. But then why should they,
    having beaten Palace in the reciprocal fixture just four weeks earlier.
    In fact, the boys seemed to be far more fluent and adventurous than
    when I last saw them at Millwall.
    
    After twenty minutes, County almost took the lead when Lund nipped in
    ahead of Martyn to nod a through ball goalwards, but without sufficient
    pace to outrun the Palace defender who managed to clear off the line.
    Lund was flattened in the process which led to a lengthy stopped, which
    seemed to allow the Eagles to regain their compusure and settle into a
    rhythm, with Williams prompting a few good moves. (He also showed his
    woeful shooting ability a couple of times)
    
    A good move down County's left produced the opening goal, though in the
    end it was scrappily finished off by Devlin, playing in an unfamiliar
    central stiking role (He's Everton-sized).
    
    Palace struck back and should really have scored when three Palace
    players popped up, unmarked (and looking suspiciouly offside) on the
    Notts' 18 yard line. I missed who actually shot weakly at Cherry as I
    fell about laughing - mostly in relief I might add.
    
    So; half-time and the prospect not only of a double over Palace, but
    also a first away win since Sept '92 - even the coffee tasted good.
    Such thoughts were soon banished, however, when the FE's equalised two
    minutes into the second half, following a poor punch from Cherry. Some
    intense pressure ensued, but the 'Pies held out, and broke away for
    Devlin to turn on the edge of the penalty area, and hit a crisp drive
    beyond Martyn into the corner to restore the lead.
    
    There were a few more heartstopping moments; notably a penalty appeal
    which from the Holmesdale end looked a good shout, and Salako's
    stunning run and piledriver that shook the crossbar. The 'Pies held out
    though and the relief at the final whistle, to fans and players alike, was
    epitomised by Mick Walker, the manager, running the width of the pitch
    to receive the plaudits of the County fans.
    
    All in all, I think County deserved the points, but it could easily
    have been 4-4, or a Palace win. Hopefully, it will inspire Notts to
    play with a bit more confidence away from home, and pick up some points
    to complement their excellent home record.
    
    The Notts players worth mentioning were Devlin of course Agana on the
    left, and the defence as a whole. The midfield whilst starting well,
    were badly over-run at times in the second half, with Lund looking
    particulary unfit.
    
    For Palace, Williams looked creative in the first half, but seemed to
    fade, Salako appeared to only produce one moment of magic, and Armstong
    showed his strength which will pay off against less resilient
    defenders. Ninja Young seemed out of sorts, and Coleman was all over
    the place at times. I wouldn't bet against them for promotion however;
    when they got into their stride, they produced some lovely football.
    
    Rob
    
    ...now, how does that song go again ? It's been so long, I almost
    forgot.....
    
    .....Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle all the way,
         Oh, what fun it is to see the County win away !
    
    
    

Notts on a bit of a roll at the minute at home,
anyway!!  They won 2-1 last night against 
Birmingham after beating Sutton 3-2 in the FA Cup
on Saturday.  Paul Devlin, who trialled at Liverpool
scored along with Gary McSweggan ex Rangers. Cooper
replied for Barry Fry's team.  

Nice to see them not struggling for a change, not
yet anyway.

Chris.

Notts lost at home for the first time in along
while 2-1 on Saturday to Luton.  Luton won it
with a couple of minutes to go.

Chris.

    
    GUTTED
    
    In the words of GLR reporter (& Hammers fan) Jeremy Nicholas :
    
    ".....West Ham earned a barely deserved trip to Kidderminster...."
    
    
    SICK AS A PARROT
    
    As sung by 22,000 Hammers fans in the 65th minute "
    
    "  Get Lee Chapman off the pitch !"
    
    
    DEVASTATED
    
    That man Chapman scores 2 minutes away from a penalty shoot-out - I'd
    have sooner seen the 'Pies go out on penalties than like that.
    
    I'll maybe put a report in later if I've time.
    
    Rob

Well, I've got over the result against the Hammers now - mainly
due to the excellent weekend stuffing of 'The Tricky Trees', and
last night's penalties victory over Southend which gives The 'Pies
a Cup Final date at Wembley against Brescia

We were having a discussion in the office is it Brescia that the
R(o)umanian Hagi plays for ? - Anyone know ?

Rob

    
>We were having a discussion in the office is it Brescia that the
>R(o)umanian Hagi plays for ? - Anyone know ?
    
    I'm afraid it is - and he's far and away their best player! I think
    they've also got another Rumanian international called Sabau.
    
    Dom

    right then hands up who's going to Wembley....come on don't be shy

    
    Derby 1 - Notts County 1
    
    A bad result for County last night, particularly as the Derby equaliser
    was an own goal 50 secs into injury time! Mind you, from the commentary
    on Radio 5 Live, it didn't sound as if either team deserved to win.
    
    The top of the First Division table now looks like this :
    
    			Pl	Pts	Gls
    Palace	        43	 84	 69	PROMOTED
    Forest		41	 72	 63
    ---------------------------------------
    Millwall		41	 68      54
    Derby		42	 67	 67
    Leicester		41	 66	 66
    Tranmere		42	 66	 61
    ---------------------------------------
    Notts County	43	 66	 61
    Stoke		43	 64	 54
    Wolves		42	 63	 57
    
    So, its still wide open for the play-off places, but my money is on
    Millwall, Leicester, Derby, and Tranmere. The remaining fixtures that I
    know of are :
    
    Millwall	   Leicester	 Derby		Tranmere	 Notts Co
    --------	   ---------	 -----		--------	 --------
    Tranmere (A)   Oxford (A)	 Grimsby (A)	Millwall (H)	 Stoke (A)
    Bristol C (H)  Stoke (H)	 Forest (H)	Sunderland (A)   Charlton (H)
    Grimsby (A)	   Wolves (A)    Oxford (H)     Birmingham (H)   Oxford (A)
    ??? (A)        Bolton (H)	 Southend (A)	Charlton (H)	 
    ??? (A)        ??? (A)
    
    Prob 78 pts	   Prob 76 pts	 Prob 75 pts	Prob 76 pts	 Prob 71 pts
    Max 83 pts	   Max 81 pts	 Max 79 pts	Max 78 pts	 Max 75 pts
    
    Wolves I think will end up on 71 pts (75 max), and Stoke on 68 pts (73
    max)
    
    Assuming Forest will get the other automatic promotion place, which
    sadly I believe they will, Then I think 74 or 75 points will be needed
    at least for a play-off spot.
    
    That will mean County winning all three remaining games; a tall order
    since two are away from home against teams who still have something to
    play for (Stoke have an outside chance of a play-off slot, and Oxford
    are fighting relegation).
    
    Anyone know the missing fixtures ?
    
    Cheers,
    
    
    Rob
    
    Oh, by the way, "It's not over yet " ;-) 

    
    	Come on, Rob. Time to give us a progress check on County's bid
    	for glory this season.
    
    	Good party week last Friday by the way. When you said "It's not
    	over 'til the fat lady sings" I didn't expect to see you *dancing*
    	with her ;-) 
    
    	Andy.

    
    Andy,
    
    I was rather hoping that no mention would be made in here of *that*
    evening ! Still it was good to meet the face behind the notes, and I'm
    told that a fun time was had by all.
    
    As for The 'Pies, it's a case of "nice ground, shame about the team" -
    Having completed the re-building of Meadow Lane over the summer, County
    now have a 20,000 seater stadium to be proud of, but seemingly they can't
    perform there. After last season's terrific home form almost earning a
    play-off place, the new term has begun with a draw and two defeats at
    the lane, with the only maximum points being earned at Bramall Lane (I
    must call that fine fellow Dave Swanson !).
    
    Walker on Saturday was quoted bemoaning the fact that he can't find any
    players to buy at the right price; since other clubs are aware he has
    the cash to spend from Mark Draper's departure. Plenty of reports
    however of other clubs showing interest in defenders Dean Yates and 
    Michael Johnson.
    
    I doubt I'll get to see Notts until October, so I can't really comment
    on what they are lacking as yet. The only fix of League football I've
    had this season is Gillingham v. Rochdale, which was not exactly top
    class action. Mike Fowler, if you're reading this: Donny have nothing
    to worry about from these two! That said, I'm being tempted to go to
    Barnet a week tomorrow to see 'Dale again; what a glutton.
    
    Rob

    
    Shock Horror ! - A Win; the second in three games, yet The 'Pies are
    still four points adrift at the foot of Division 1.
    
    County play at Norwich tomorrow in the Coca Cola - a repeat of the
    performance against the Totts beckons (NOT).
    
    Rob

Yo Ando,

Are t'pies pushing for a play off spot??

Stuart

    
    Shock Horror !! Three months on and another note appears in the Notts
    County topic. Unfortunately, it's only to mention that The 'Pies look
    almost certain to be starting next season in Division 2; with 12 games
    to play they are 8 points adrift of safety, and 24 pts short of the
    relatively 'safe' end of season total of 54. 8 wins in 12 games looks
    extremely unlikely given the tally to date of 7 wins in 34 games !
    
    I visited the Valley on Saturday to see County play Charlton, induced by 
    the excellent marketing ploy of halving the entrance charge to a fiver.
    The scheme worked, as it was the highest ever gate at the rebuilt
    stadium, and would have been completely sold out had it not been for
    County's usual pitiful following.
    
    As for the game, it was hardly a classic, and I hope that it doesn't
    put off some of the many youngsters there from attending again; clubs
    like Charlton need the kids to get hooked to survive.
    
    The only players worth a mention for Notts were the young Aussie
    centre-half Shaun Murphy, who was commanding in defence, and the old
    Scot Steve Nicol who was complete and utter crap in the central
    midfield role. Paul Devlin tried his best up front but hardly received
    the best support from the enigmatic Tony Agana or Kendall's 'big' signing
    from AFC Bournemouth Kevin 'Journeyman' Russell. Watch out for Devlin
    to be the next departure from Meadow Lane, in search of stardom, & money
    (or maybe just Derby County and the Republic of Ireland).
    
    For Charlton, David Whyte looked a very mobile forward without ever
    posing a serious threat in front of goal, and the two most creative
    influences Robson and Mortimer both ended up being substituted to the
    chagrin of the home fans.
    
    "Down with the Burnley, you're going down with the Burnley...." was
    the Sarf Lundon repost, and sadly Andy Sant, I think they're right on
    both counts.

Is Andrew Legge (another Swansea reject - ahem!) still with Notts County?  
Longest throw-in in the business, that lad.

    
    	Thanks for eminding me, Rob. I've been trying to hide my claret
    	favours recently, and it looks very gloomy for Burnley now.
    
    	Andy.

>>           <<< Note 39.57 by CHEFS::GEORGEM "The West is the Best" >>>

>> Is Andrew Legge (another Swansea reject - ahem!) still with Notts County?  
>> Longest throw-in in the business, that lad.
    
    Matt,
    
    I understand he is one of the fourteen squad members that Howie (or
    should that be Howo ?) has put on the transfer list; which is a bit of
    a shame really, since the guy can throw it (41 yards) further than most
    of the [politically-incorrect-term]'s can kick it.
    
    ....just one of the six-figure mis-fits at the club currently !
    
    Rob

Heard, from a Swansea supporting mate last night, that Andrew Legge actually 
holds the world record, now.  He's officially got the longest throw-in in the 
world.

>>Heard, from a Swansea supporting mate last night, that Andrew Legge actually 
>>holds the world record, now.  He's officially got the longest throw-in in the 
>>world.
    
    
    He got an 'assist' in the Anglo-Italian Cup Final on Sunday, for his
    long throw into the six yard box that Tony Agana scored the winner
    from.
    
    Back to the real battle of Division 1 survival, and after last night it
    looks like only a beat-the-transfer-deadline signing of Steve McQueen
    (complete with motorbike) can save The 'Pies from the drop. Back on the
    bottom, and I reckon they need 19 points from 4 home games and five
    away - not quite mission impossible, but fairly close thereto.
    
    ...still, I can look forward to Nottinghamshire derbies again next
    season.....
    
    ......with Mansfield =:^{
    
    Rob

    
    	After the Clarets' mighty 2-1 win against Luton last night, you
    	might need to amend your relegation prediction Rob!
    
    	Although time's running out for the Turf Moor men.
    
    	Andy.

    
    
    Is there a record for the most number of managers in one season ?
    
    Rob

Mr Anderson,

I have looked for an address for either a web page or a Notts County
mailing list , but alas to no avail. I can only think that;

a/ The other supporter is having problems is having problems loading Netscape
   on his Sinclair Spectrum 

b/ There isn't one

Hope this helps,

Stuart

>>>The other supporter is having problems is having problems loading

It appears that the Crystal Palace supporter is having problems is having 
problems with his memory his memory or his typinginging.

    
    Just time to jot a quick note about County's start to the season before
    going back to sorting out the mess the office removers have made, and
    trying to find the paperwork for all the orders that are about to flood
    in.
    
    I went up to Peterborough on Saturday to see The 'Pies extend their
    unbeaten run to five games (something last achieved about four seasons
    ago!). 
    
    Brief thoughts on the day :
    
    I'd forgotten how bad some second (nee third) division grounds are;
    Posh are currently rebuilding one side, so it resembled a five a side
    pitch with boarding just behind the touchline. You could tell ity
    wasn't five-a-side though, and lower-league football instead 'cos the
    ball flew over and into the building site with monotonous regularity.
    
    Notts have got together a side blended with experience and youth (that
    old chesnut; half of 'em are has-beens/never-were's) - upfront Devon
    White (aka 'Bruno') was partnered by Nigel Jemson and later by Tony
    Agana, whilst at the back Gary Mills and Steve Nicol boast vast amounts
    of top-flight games. 
    
    The only goal was superbly taken by White, and was his 6th in 5 games;
    perhaps not surprisingly at 6'3" a lot of the build ups revolved around
    long balls to him. Ironically it was a Colleymore-style run and shot
    that earned the win.
    
    I have to admit it wasn't often pretty football, and County looked as
    if they could move up a gear to take control, but did just enough to
    keep ahead. Walker and Strodder at the back looked a little shaky, but
    they were missing the marshalling of Hogg for the first time this year.
    
    In the midfield, Phil Turner played the same harrying/chivying game
    now long expected of him as captain, whilst the playmaking was left to
    Mark Draper-lookalike Mike Galloway. (Shame he doesn't play like
    Draper!) Devlin looked a shadow of the man he was two seasons ago,
    whilst Andy Legg did what he always does best - took the throw-ins.
    
    I left with a feeling of confidence that Notts should be up there
    pushing for promotion at the end of the season, but with nagging doubts
    about the reliance on White, and the need for more creativity in the
    middle. Tonight sees the visit of Bradford City to Meadow Lane, my
    other tips for promotion, before a trip to Brighton and then the Coke
    cup meeting with Leeds (Memories of 1975 when we won 1-0 at Elland Road
    against the likes of Clarke, Bremner, Lorimer, Gray).
    
    Rob
    
    P.S. Trivia Alert !!!! - London Road on Saturday was number 53 on my
    list of league grounds visited; at the rate I'm adding them at the
    moment, I should complete the 92 by the time I'm drawing my pension.
    

    
    Does this result mean that 'we' are better than TGFTITW ?
    
    Rob

    And since Leeds beat you in the CCC that must mean that LEEDS UNITED
    are TGFTITU.
    
    Cheers,
    
    	Rick.

    Ah, but to apply you're warped logic to this situation, Arsenal beat
    Leeds in the League which means that Gravesend are TGFTITU.
    
    hth,
    
    Stuart

	A rare sortie into write-mode to bring you this from FutureNet 
	News :

	BIRMINGHAM SIGN DEVLIN AND LEGG FROM
	NOTTS COUNTY

	1 March 1996 at 09:30:58 


          BIRMINGHAM CITY have bought forward Paul Devlin and
          midfielder Andy Legg in a �500,000 double swoop on Notts County.
          Notts hope to complete the signing of Southend striker Gary 
	  Jones in time for tomorrow's second division home game against 
	  Hull City.

	First 'Bruno' to Watford for a meer 100K, and now this; some might 
	call it asset stripping. I'll just say Bye Bye Promotion Prospects

	Rob