Half Season Ratings Part 1

1. Kevin Pilkington. As with the majority of the players in front of him, Pilkington was heavily involved in Notts' bright start, his succession of important clean sheets the backbone of the Magpies' rise up the table. However, a few high profile errors saw him dropped for three games, though he did return to star at Stockport and Swindon, despite not helping Notts to wins. His kicking remains a problem, as does his understanding with Alan White. 6

Edwards...Player of the season so far

2. David Pipe. Failed to recapture his amazing form of last season, mainly because he now has better players around him, so doesn't perhaps stand out as much. However, the Welshman is still one of Notts' best players, his explosive running and determination a key factor in the best performances Notts have had. He is up there in terms of assists too. His recent move to right-back will be a successful one. 8

3. Austin McCann. Upon his arrival, ‘Aussie' was labelled the division's best left-back, and he lived up to that billing with blistering early season form. He almost single-handedly got Notts a point at Mansfield, and put in quality performances throughout. However, after being bullied by Kevin Betsy against Wycombe in the Cup, McCann has failed to perform in recent weeks, with sloppy passing and a lack of confidence big factors in Notts' recent demise. 7

4. Mike Edwards. The Magpies' most consistent player. Excellent in the tackle, solid in the air, and calm on the ball, Edwards has hardly put a foot wrong. Added some valuable goals at the start of the season too, and was outstanding in the Carling Cup run, shackling the likes of Mark Viduka and Gregorz Rasiak easily. Needs to recapture his goalscoring form, a clear problem for Notts. 9

5. Alan White. Has been integral in everything Notts have done this season. A virtual ever present, White has been involved in almost everything good or bad. Some fine headers, and some battling performances make him appear unstoppable at times, but every now and again the determined Captain makes a mistake that costs Notts valuable points, making him the latest scapegoat. Time and time again his errors are too costly. 6

6. Matt Somner. Superb in Notts' start, Somner came as the ball winning midfielder, with tenacious qualities. His willing work enabled the better ball playing skills of Ian Ross to flourish, and he was pivotal in the Carling Cup

Lee... Top goalscorer

win with superb roles at Middlesbrough and against Southampton. However, has he lost his way, so did Notts, and his passing must improve if he is to reach form again. 7

8. Dan Martin. Last season Martin performed at full-back, centre-back, left midfield and central midfield. This season, despite spending most of it on the bench, he has been given a predominant role as an attacking midfielder, where he has been one of the brightest Notts players. A long run in the team through September saw him grab four goals in four games, including a match winning brace at home to Accrington. After he was unfairly replaced by a returning Ross, Martin has found limited chances of late, though he appeared as a late sub to net against Macclesfield. Most fans feel he should start more games. 7

9. Jason Lee. Steve Thompson's first signing, the experienced target man wasn't greeted wholly by the Magpies fans. However, he soon won most over with some determined displays and goals. He is the top goalscorer with eight in all competitions. Can not be faulted, though critics claim that when he plays, Notts have too much a tendency to play direct football. 8

Parkinson... largely disapointing

10. Lawrie Dudfield. Started the season in the side, but was the least impressive of the four attackers until his goal at Crystal Palace earnt him a place in the fans hearts. By then he'd lost out to Junior Mendes as Thompson's preferred partner for Lee, and has since played second fiddle. Has had maximum impact as a goal winning substitute, leading for calls for him to start. He has done recently, putting in a series of good displays, and looking the best finisher of all the strikers. 7

11. Andy Parkinson. When the popular wide man returned in the summer, after two previous loan spells under Gary Mills at Meadow Lane, fans believed he'd be the best of the summer signings. However, 23 starts and only two goals later, fans are questioning his inclusion. His work rate isn't questioned, neither his willingness, but he often fails with the final ball, and has not tested defences enough. 6