The Week That Was... 20/11/06-24/11/06

Last updated : 24 November 2006 By Paul Smith

Monday

Reaction from Notts' perfectly timed 2-1 home win over Wrexham continued. Andy Parkinson, who grabbed Notts' opener told the ‘Official Site', “It was only my second goal of the season, and my first one here this season, and that is always nice and it's great to score in front of our fans.” Regarding the recent form of the Magpies, ‘Parky' said, “We've not been on the greatest of runs so it was important to get a win under our belts. The build-up for Christmas is starting now so it was vital for us to get a win to get back on track.”

Parkinson... Eventful weekend
Following the match, it was learnt that midfielder Matt Somner will miss Notts' next fixture, away at league leaders Walsall, after collecting his fifth booking of the campaign against Wrexham.

Tuesday

Notts County Reserves lost 2-1 at local rivals Mansfield. The Magpies fielded six professionals at Field Mill, and one of them, Jake Sheridan, put Notts into the lead. It was a well-taken finish, but Mansfield equalised immediately, before getting a winner soon after. Tcham N'Toya, Bobby Wilson, Gary Silk, Stef Frost and Dan Martin were the other professionals to turn out. Youngster Steven Akers, who made his first-team debut in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy defeat to Barnet, also started.

Andy Parkinson was named in the League 2 Team of the Week, following his performance against Wrexham.

Wednesday

The ‘Official Site' was inundated with Notts interviews, and the mood in the camp appeared extremely positive. Steve Thompson, David Pipe and Mike Edwards all had their say.

Defender Edwards acknowledges that he now plays for a side with expectant fans, “Fans are coming here now with the start we've had, and expecting us to perhaps roll teams over, but it won't be like that.”

Midfielder Pipe has set his sights on a return to the Wales side, particularly if Notts continue to perform, “To play for my country is the end of the line for me and that is what I play for. When I go out on to the pitch I am playing for Notts, and I will give everything, but I do think if there is someone in the stands looking and taking another chance on me.”

Manager Thompson said, “The win on Saturday has taken a bit of pressure off us in the fact we can prepare for Walsall, and try and get what we can from the game.”

Thursday

Kevin Pilkington took his turn in front of the ‘Official Site' microphones revealing he is looking forward to the difficult looking trip to Walsall, “It will be a challenge for us to go there and try to score a goal, and also try to get a result. If we can get a result there I can tell you now the lads will be very, very happy.”

Tom Curtis returned to full training for the first time today, after being missing from the squad since the draw at Mansfield Town with a foot injury.

Stephen Hunt is also training again, although he is in the early stages as he just begins running.

Sheridan... Missing on Saturday despite Reserve goal

Friday

The team news was revealed for both camps ahead of the top of the table clash between Notts and Walsall at the Bescot Stadium.

Notts will be without Matt Somner (suspension) and Stephen Hunt (ankle). Tom Curtis isn't match fit enough to take his place in the side, whilst reserve players Jake Sheridan and Tcham N'Toya are unlikely to be recalled. Jay Smith could start in place of Somner, with Dan Martin and Daryl McMahon also in contention.