Match ratings v Grimsby Town

Last updated : 23 October 2006 By Paul Smith

Kevin Pilkington. Made a series of crucial stops to deny the hosts when the scores were level. Made one outstanding save from Ciaran Toner and showed solid play throughout. His return to form saw Notts' first clean sheet in four games. 8

Dan Gleeson. Like Pilkington, his form has suffered a little in recent weeks, but he was another who showed a return to sharpness. Didn't allow Grimsby to gain any attacking advantage and was determined throughout. 7

Austin McCann. You always know what you will get from the Scotsman. Commitment, energy, and he always seems to throw in a fantastic performance. 8

Edwards... Expert
Mike Edwards.
Back where he belongs at the heart of defence, it was no coincidence that Notts returned to winning ways, especially with a clean sheet. He won every header and brought the ball out of defence expertly. 8

Alan White. Lucky to keep his place after some recent inept displays, especially with young Stephen Hunt showing good form. However, White returned to his sharp best, dominating the defensive area and causing havoc in attack. Missed a good early chance before helping the ball on for Lee to clinch it. 7

David Pipe. A superb cross for Mendes' goal, and a battle hardened performance once again. There is little else you need to say about the Welshman. 8

Andy Parkinson. A return to form was needed against his former employees, but the wide man again failed to deliver. Seems short on confidence, and he consistently lost the ball. 5

Ian Ross. A good display of his playmaking abilities, Ross' set-pieces again caused Grimsby a lot of problems. Provider of Lee's goal, he passed the ball well, and it was possibly his best ninety minutes of the campaign. 8

Matt Somner. Still not at his battling best, but Somner showed a slight return to form. His work allowed Ross more time on the ball, but he sloppily conceded possession on occasions. 6

Jason Lee. Stooped well to score his third goal for Notts, and he deserved the goal for a hard working performance. Crucial to Notts' game plan, Lee held the ball up well and worked in conjunction with strike partner Mendes to good effect. 7

Junior Mendes. Four goals now for Notts, and he is showing signs that he

Ross... Man of the Match
might breakaway as Notts' leading goalscorer. Mendes was sharp all game, and his skill, pace and shooting capabilities worried the Mariners throughout. 8

Substitutes:

Dan Martin (for Parkinson, ‘72) Battled hard to ensure Notts' midfield kept on top of the game. 6

Stephen Hunt (for Gleeson, ‘78) Brought on to help defend Notts' lead, and he did what was asked of him. 6

Lawrie Dudfield (for Jason Lee, ‘90) Had little time to make an impact. No rating.

Drapes' Man of the Match: Ian Ross