Match ratings vs. Chester City

Stephen Mildenhall - 4 - Had a very hot and cold afternoon, missed the cross that lead to the goal but looked assertive during the first-half. But, as mentioned, should be taking those rice and pea catches with his eyes shut.

David Pipe - 7 - Yet another assured performance from our Mr. Consistent, the former Coventry man tackled well, played hard, and yet still had enough time to skin all-comers inside-out on the right wing-back slot he's reluctantly making his own. Another Welsh under-21 call-up may well be on the cards for Pipe.

Julian Baudet - 9 - Was less a rock than he was mountain for Notts today, his stature proving a stern test for Clare who, until late on, was restricted to as much as a sniff. Capped a solid, reassuring debut with a very well-taken penalty. Well adapted for life in League Two, 'The Brute' looks a real coup and could lead Notts headlong into the trenches this season.

Mike Whitlow - 7 - Pulls no punches. Everything I expected him to be as a leader and more, even gave the young blood a run for their money when the chase got going. Desperately unlucky with the late hand-ball but as we know; shit happens.

Ian Richardson - 7 - In my eyes, appeared a lot more vocal on last season's showing and mirrored Whitlow's influence as experienced head at the back. Did well to out-run Michael Branch, even better to hook the ball away in such emphatic fashion. Proving all doubters wrong.

Rob Ullathorne - 5 - With all due respect, he looked out of place. Then again, he was. Hardly your energetic winger type, but chased every cause - like most of the Notts side. Did little to overly impress me and so should soon be replaced by Palmer/Scully on their return. Wait and see.

Mike Edwards - 6 - Looked to be enjoying himself in a less-responsible midfield role, Edwards powered forward to little effect but was willing to get the boot in where it counts. Would like to see him at centre-half at some point during the season.

Matty Gill - 6 - Lacked the creative influence that the midfield was crying out for, for me Stefan Oakes should walk into this role as and when he's fit. Gill took up dead-ball duties and stuck to the script eptly, launching balls towards the back post for the air-orientated men to nod forward. A semi-useful creative influence - but has some way to come still.

Paul Bolland - 6 - Battled hard and was a very much unsung player throughout. But Bolland, for me, lacks the confidence to surge forward even though his safety-first policy makes a refreshing alternative to the 'do or die' seemingly adopted throughout last season. Could have scored had Gordon released him...but didn't.

Gavin Gordon - 6/7 - Clive Platt...with talent. Frightening! However, missed chances where he should have converted - his fatal flaw?

Glynn Hurst - 7 - Took full advantage of defenders worrying about Gordon, yet gave defenders enough of a headache marking the duo as a collective. Pace to burn, and a good football brain, Hurst may well become a hit yet.

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