Billy Praises Youngsters

Dearden told the Notts players to dictate the pace of the game on Saturday and they set-off to a flying start creating two good chances in the first six minutes.

But it was a combination of tactical nouse and motivation that helped Notts wrap up three vital points and move out of the relegation places.

Heffernan - Pacey and Determined

The new boss told the Magpies to forget their passing game, due to poor state of the Cambridge pitch, and get the ball in behind the Cambridge defence.

And he sent out each player with the knowledge that they had to earn their place under the new regime.

Paul Riley in particular, appeared determined to earn his manager's praise, going one-on-one with one of the best wingers in the second division.

Paul Heffernan also showed pace and determination and with his positive attitude, he could become a regular first-teamer in the near future.

But the player that epitomised the performance most was the

Stallard - Brave

experienced striker Mark Stallard. Going straight in to the side after a seven match lay-off, Stallard was a thorn in the side of the Cambridge defence.

Clearly not fit, Stallard was given the chance to come off after 60 minutes but he bravely battled on creating the second goal for Paul Heffernan before finally taking a break.

Manager Dearden also took time to praise the 514 travelling Notts fans who gave him and the team loud support throughout the game.

Both Riley and Stallard are on the treatment bench with groin injuries but both should be fit for the next relegation fixture, against Port Vale on Saturday.