Match Ratings vs. Torquay United

Last updated : 08 August 2005 By Richard Brown

Kevin Pilkington – 9 – Star man. Nothing short of a hero for the Magpies. Athletic, alert, commanding and, in stark contrast to his pre-season performances, decisive in claiming the ball from the air. An accomplished display, indeed.

Brian O’Callaghan – 6 – This man may well be called Brian, but he’s no snail! Despite looking somewhat clumsy at right-back, the big man offered a steady, if unspectacular, start to his Magpies career. If he can remain consistent, however, then stability is not something we could/should snub. Looked nervous at times, however – something we could easily part with.

To him! :: Organisation is paramount.
Kelvin Wilson – 7 –
Grew in stature as the game progressed. Was quick to amend minor mistakes, and read the game like the true pro that he is. Rio-esque, almost .

Julien Baudet – 7 – Although somewhat clumsy going forward, the Frenchmen turned in a typical captains performance. Commanded well and lead very much by example. His experience at a relatively young age will surely help the likes of Wilson, Martin and the like to progress at a satisfactory rate. Légende.

Dan "Dean’o" Martin – 6/7 – One or the future. A strong, stable display from the well-built teenager. Dealt admirably with the high pace of the game, as well as the physical approach of the opponent. Took a few kickings and was thus replaced at the interval. All-in-all, an impressive debut from the youngster. That’s Amore.

David Pipe – 7 – Despite perhaps being guilty of looking for the spectacular 40-yard pass when the 5-yarder would have done the job, the young Welshmen looked as sharp as ever over the course of the game. Moved to right-back after spending the first half on the wing, the Welsh under-21 captain continued to look sharp and cause problems. Yet another season of success looks in store for Pipe – again, we can have no complaints.

Lewis McMahon – 8 – A fiery character at the heart of midfield, McMahon – signed from Sheffield Wednesday during the close season – looked equally capable of dictating play as he did snuffing out the opponent’s. Tough in the tackle and accurate in the pass, Notts finally look to have the all-singing, all dancing midfield man that we have longed for.

Mike Edwards – 7 – The nickname ‘Steady Eddy’ has NEVER looked so fitting as on Saturday. Complimented McMahon well and looked as though last season’s woes were a world away. Welcome back, young Steady.

Chrissy Palmer – 8 – Looked to have hit a new level with Saturday’s performance. Whilst his contribution was by no means perfect, the young winger has learnt much from a hard pre-season of double training sessions – not least, how to shoot. His venomous efforts continued to cause problems for Andy Marriott throughout the afternoon. His place in team of the week is more than justified.

Glynn Hurst – 5/6 – In all sincerity (clean-slates aside), simply looked too lightweight for the more physical defenders. However, credit must go for his raw enthusiasm and persistence. The confidence will come – we’re banking on it!

Steve Scoffham – 7/8 – Finally we’re beginning to see what exactly Mills saw in the former Gedling man. Towards the end of last season – granted he was still somewhat rusty after eleven months of recovery work – ‘Scoff’ looked exhausted, a spent force. However, on Saturday afternoon the former tradesmen looked a man reborn, chasing every cause and leaving no leaf unturned. Lucky, however, to walk away with just the one broken leg; but justice was done with Tony Bedeau’s dismissal.

Substitutes (used):

Rob Ullathorne (Martin ’46) – 6/7 – Picked up very much were Martin left off, whilst providing that ever-important experience to the side. When fully fit, the Magpies faithful can expect a real battle for perhaps now the most hotly contested position on the pitch. I’d hate to be Gudjon come Tuesday.

Jake Sheridan (O’Callaghan ‘67) – 6 – At just 18-years of age and fresh from the non-league scene, Jake Sheridan hardly looked out of place on the right flank. On occasion, Sheridan was allowed run almost the whole lengths of the pitch unchallenged – all this whilst waiting for support from his team-mates. Bags of enthusiasm, courage and pace should hopefully see Sheridan earn himself a contract here – another one for the future. Note well, Mr. Thordarson.

Andy White (Hurst ’75) – 7 – Entering to a rowsing applause from stage left, White provided what Hurst failed to offer throughout much of the game – raw power. At 6"5, White shrugged the challenges left, right and centre – almost scoring with his first touch of the ball, only for the ball to be spectacularly saved by Marriott. A must-have for Tuesday’s encounter.

Subs not used: Deeney, Gill

For team news of Tuesday’s home clash with Wrexham, be sure to check back to NCM over the next 24 hours.