Match Ratings V Torquay United

Last updated : 21 January 2007 By Paul Smith

Kevin Pilkington. Made two crucial saves to deny Torquay in one on one situations, at a time where the Gulls threatened to firstly extend their lead, and secondly equalise once again. Didn't guard his six yard box for their first though. 7

Silk... A crunching return
Gary Silk.
Started impressively, making two or three crunching tackles to show the visiting winger he meant business. Was overpowered in the air too often, but overall won his battle to stake a claim for a regular place. 6

Alan White. Despite the fact that he can be a massive presence on his day, White too often makes costly errors, and that happened twice today. Both cost goals, and nearly Notts' three points. As a Captain, he didn't even join in Notts' celebrations. Not at all inspiring. 3

Mike Edwards. Since his illness, and subsequent rest from the starting line-up, Mr. consistent Edwards hasn't reached the heights of earlier performances. Not helped by his defensive partner White, he looked slightly cautious and a little nervous. 6

Stephen Hunt. Still looks better as a centre half, but Hunt did a good job filling in for regular Austin McCann, and will always be relied upon to do the same. Looks like he strained his hamstring badly, which would be a bad loss for Notts' overstretched squad. 6

Matt Somner. A magnificent start, Somner battered into Torquay, making some telling and crucial hard tackles. Even had a little dribble contributing to a good Notts move. Tired towards the end, but can be satisfied with a good afternoon's work. 7

White... Not leading by example

Jay Smith. Seems to improve with every game, and looked particularly confident after his fine finish got Notts an important equaliser. Always looked lively, and looked for the killer ball. 7

Dan Martin. After being restored to the side following pressure from fans, Martin followed up his return at Accrington with a less pleasing performance. He didn't put a foot wrong, but didn't involve himself until shifting to left back where he made some good tackles. 6

Junior Mendes. Returned to the starting line-up despite Steve Thompson revealing he isn't 100%. It showed with Mendes hurried in possession. Headed well to net, but his injury seemed to flare up as he made way after 25 minutes. 6

Jason Lee. Another brace for the target man, taking him into double figures for league goals scored. Despite not being signed as an out and out goalscorer, Lee is enjoying a prolific spell. Battled hard throughout, inflicting pain on the United defence. 8

Lawrie Dudfield. Still awaits a precious first home goal, but this could be one of the starring performances of an individual Notts player this season. Involved in everything good Notts did, including three assists, Dudfield also had a goal ruled out and hit the bar. Integral nowadays for Thompson's men. 9

Substitutes.

Dudfield... Man of the Match

Andy Parkinson (for Mendes). Dropped after a completely ineffective performance at Accrington, ‘Parky' got a break when Mendes hobbled off after just a quarter of the match. Parkinson used it to produce his best performance of the season, running the Gulls ragged, scoring a fine individual goal, and creating chances. 8

Darryl McMahon (for Hunt). Didn't have long to show his skill, but McMahon made a few vital challenges to safeguard Notts' lead. 6

Drapes' Man of the Match: Lawrie Dudfield.