Match Ratings v Grimsby Town - including Paul Mayo...8

Last updated : 14 August 2007 By Paul Smith
Kevin Pilkington. The County stopper wasn't really tested all game. Having to make no crucial saves and having very little to do, he didn't do anything wrong. Not at fault for the goal and a solid display. 7

Gary Silk.
In the first half Silk looked settled at full back. He was looking to get forward and rarely gave the ball away but into the second period winger Ciaran Toner got the better of him, highlighting his defensive frailties. His performance showed promise however. 6

Stephen Hunt.
He was at fault for the conceded goal losing his man as the ball was whipped in. But all in all, it was another assured display for the young centre back. He dealt with most of Grimsby's threats. 7

Lee Canoville.
His full debut was shaky. He never made a mistake but looked as if he could. Played too many long balls upfield which never worked for Notts. Needs to do better. 6

Mayo...NCM Star Man
Paul Mayo. STAR MAN.
Outstanding. He blocked time and time again, one of which saved a clear goal scoring chance. Battled hard and got forward when the chance arose. A solid debut and well warranted a place ahead of Austin McCann for his shear defensive steel. 8

Neil MacKenzie. He showed he was class act. A great finish and some great touches topped a great display. He done everything well but will be looking to get involved a bit more. With Notts intent on playing long ball football, he was sometimes bypassed, but he could do little to affect this. 8

Richard Butcher.
Quiet. He went missing for much of the game having little impact on proceedings. Missed a great chance late on. Not a good debut. 6

Matt Somner.
Typical display. Put himself about, got stuck in but didn't look good on the ball. He was prepared to out his body on the line and gave his all for 90 minutes but lacked compsure in possession. 6

Andy Parkinson.
Got better as the game went on. He showed some glimpses of magic that excited the crowd but more often than not, refused to beat his man in favour of a backwards or sideways pass. Subs came on and done better, his place is under threat. 6
Parkinson...Place under threat


Jason Lee.
He didn't really threaten goal wise but was terrific in the air. He dropped back when the ball was lost and won everything with his head. Took the captains armband well, leading by example and rallying his troops. Booked harshly. 7

Lawrie Dudfield
. Unusually quiet. He found some good positions all afternoon but wasn't involved enough. With competition stiff for places up top, he will have to up his impact to keep his shirt. 6

Subs

Hector Sam (for Dudfield).
Lively. Great position along the line and was keen to get involved. Missed a good a chance but impressed. 7

Jay Smith (for Butcher).
Had a point to prove and done so. Showed creative side as usual and came straight on to win two big challenges. Should start. 7

Spencer Weir-Daley (for Parkinson).
Showed good place and was direct. Was denied a blatent penalty and gave Notts another dimension going forward.