Match ratings v Bury... Including Gary Silk...4

Last updated : 14 October 2007 By Paul Smith

Kevin Pilkington. Nothing he could do about the first goal as he was left unsighted, while the third was a penalty where the goalkeeper isn't expected to save. The second could have been covered better as the shot came from distance. Distribution was poor but little he could do to change the result. 5

Gary Silk. Many have been clamouring for his return to starting action but he hardly illustrated why with a nervy performance littered with gifting possession away. There was nothing of his attacking skills on display and his crossing was poor. 4

Adam Tann. Inexplicably hauled Glynn Hurst to the ground for the penalty and his passing was woeful. Still found time for two or three vital blocks proving his worth but his errors are far outweighing his plus points at the moment. Was unlucky to hit the bar. 4

McCann... Man of the match

Stephen Hunt. How much Notts need the Hunt of last season to return. Again his poor form was continued as old man Hurst gave him the run around all day. Far too many long aimless balls and his positional sense and inspiration - as captain - was badly lacking. 4

Austin McCann. STAR MAN. Should keep his place ahead of Paul Mayo at Mansfield owing to this solid showing on his return to the starting eleven. He was also superb at Field Mill last season. McCann was particularly good in the first half, making some good runs and creating intelligent space down the left. Made two or three outstanding tackles and was as determined as anyone to get Notts something from the game. Unlucky to be on the losing side. 7

Richard Butcher. Started in great form, spraying the ball about and looking a threat on the edge of the oppositions box without getting a serious effort in on goal. He was also making some decent challenges but he faded badly, as with many of his team-mates, once Bury went in front and when he was needed to stand up thereafter he failed. 6

Matt Somner. Has been in decent form in recent outings. Making himself a midfield terrier and winning some fine challenges. But yesterday must be one of his worst ninety minutes in Notts colours. His passing was atrocious and he was at fault for allowing the Shakers to get back in front so soon after Notts' equaliser. 4

MacKenzie... Best midfielder
Neil MacKenzie.
Always tried to make Notts tick and, particularly in the first half, he produced some good passes and threatening corners. Took his penalty well and was always the man most likely to create Notts an opening. Limped off in the second half which is a major concern ahead of trip to his former club Mansfield next week. 7

Danny Crow. Looked a class act during his hour long spell on the pitch before his potential metatarsal injury when winning Notts' penalty that might mean one of the shortest Notts careers ever. That will be a big loss on this evidence with Crow dangerous, direct and very sharp. 7

Spencer Weir-Daley. It could have all been so different had he taken his glorious early chance with just the keeper to beat. He should have scored at a time Notts were looking impressive. Buzzed about and was in good form in the first half making things happen and working hard but tired and didn't hold the ball up well enough. 6

Lawrie Dudfield. The lack of goals burden is starting to weigh heavy on him by yesterday's evidence. Dudfield, unlike several games this season, did have chances but his finishing let him down. Was still as clever as usual on the ball and linked well with Crow at times but he badly needs a goal now. 6

Subs

Myles Weston (for Danny Crow, 65). Contributed nothing and is clearly

Sam... Fans favourite?
going to need time to find the pace of games again after long lay-off. Can't recall him touching the ball more than once. 5

Andy Parkinson (Neil MacKenzie, 75). Ran around like a headless chicken. 5

Hector Sam (for Spencer Weir-Daley, 83). The fans in z-block appear to have taken to the Trinidadian but he still lacks a quality finish even if he does look like creating things when on the ball. So close to a second equaliser just a minute before Bury's killer third with smart turn and shot. 6