Notts were in the bottom four, but were in high spirits after finally getting their first win of the campaign three days prior, beating Chesterfield at Saltergate
1-0.
I'd go as far to say that the Rushden game earlier in the season, especially the second half, rated as one of the worst of the season. As the visitors ran out 3-1 winners in a game they dominated more then any away side has at Meadow Lane this season.
|
Kevin Nicholson's long throw was chested down and one expert over-head kick later and the floppy haired maestro was off, celebrating with the fans from the JS stand.
That was as good as it got though for Notts as a minute later the best player on the pitch, Onandi Lowe, rose highest to head home a corner and give the Diamonds an undeserved equaliser.
Mildenhall- he was rather good back then- was keeping Notts in the game with some stunning saves, but Rushden won a debatable penalty just after the break when Tony Barras was adjudged to have pulled back Lowe. David Bell dispatched the spot kick and from then on Notts were never in it.
Notts were eventually put out of their misery by ex-Magpie Daune Darby, who's now left Rushden, who fired in a terrific low drive to make the final score 3-1, which actually flattered Notts, rather than the ecstatic visitors.
Notts' Team That Day: Mildenhall, Fenton, Livesey, Barras, Nicholson (Riley), Bolland, Caskey (Brough), Baraclough, Baldry, Stallard, Platt (Hackworth).
Not Used: Garden, McFaul.
|
This is largely due to the fact that their sugar daddy, Max Griggs, has decided to sell the club that his money's brought up the various league's- and they're now pretty hard up. He's yet to find a buyer.
The Diamonds are now a shadow of the side that, for me, looked the best to play at Meadow Lane this season. They're now a mid-table outfit that are there for the taking.
Better still, they've lost their manager of 7 years, Brian Talbot, to Oldham. They're currently being run by experienced centre half Barry Hunter, who has taken the reins until the end of the season. Hardly inspiring.
They no longer have Duane Darby among their ranks, but still possess Onandi Lowe- who's also not taken off as first expected, but is still a big danger- and Rodney Jack, as well as experienced forward Paul Kitson.
Paul Hall and Ritchie Hanlon can also chip in with some goals from midfield and will need to be watched closely.
They're certainly beatable, but with Notts' mini striker crisis going on- with Heffernan a major doubt- I'm plumping for a low scoring draw.
NCM Prediction:- Rushden & Diamonds 0-0 Notts County