Match Ratings V Darlington

Last updated : 16 December 2006 By Paul Smith

Saul Deeney. After Steve Thompson showed faith in him last week, only to see Deeney under perform, the Irishman will be delighted to have had another chance, and a clean sheet. However, he was rarely tested. 6

Gary Silk. Possibly his best performance yet for Notts. The right-back dealt with all that was thrown at him and also nearly scored with a pot shot that wriggled under the Quakers goalkeeper. 8

Alan White. A Captains performance and the vital goal towards the end, Darlington-born White enjoyed his day in front of his family. A rock at the back throughout, his return to form is well received. 9

Mike Edwards. The return of ‘Steady Eddie' today, after a few weeks loss of form. Back to his best, no surprise then to see Notts record a first clean sheet in nine games. 8

Smith... Best Notts performance yet
Austin McCann.
A quiet game, which was good as his opposite competitor, Neil Wainwright, was a constant threat. A decent battle that neither really lost. 6

Ian Ross. Largely ineffectual, Ross held his position well and kept things neat and tidy. Seemed somehow subdued with fellow midfielder Jay Smith showing more presence. 6

Jay Smith. Best game yet for the Magpies, his passing was superb, and he was consistently involved at both ends. The deal to extend his loan yesterday now looks the right one. 8

Matt Somner. Toiled to allow Smith his performance. Battled and bravely jumped into tackles, which is Somner at his best. 7

Andy Parkinson. Lively, and he popped up three times in good positions in the Darlington area, but he failed to notch his third goal of the season. 6

Junior Mendes. Back to full fitness, Mendes was sharp and energetic. Linked well with strike partner Dudfield, before tiring. 7

Lawrie Dudfield. Finally, a deserved start after weeks on the bench, Dudfield made the most of it with a tireless showing. Worked the channels well, providing chances for others and having a couple of good ones himself. 8

Subs:

Daryl McMahon (for Ian Ross, 73). His corner eventually led to the goal, but he didn't show his full potential. Worked hard to see out the game though. 6

White...Man of the Match

Tcham N'Toya (for Junior Mendes, 83). Held his position and the ball to see out the game. 5

Dan Martin (for Lawrie Dudfield, 86). Added a defensive body when needed. 5

Drapes' Man of the Match: Alan White.