Notts held at Hucknall

All 13 of Thompson's new signings took to the field in what was a hugely experimental clash at Watnall Road, played in-front of 1,003 supporters - most of whom came to support the visiting side.

The new-look Magpies delivered a slightly uninspiring display in-front of the expectant Notts fans - keen to see their all-new side in action.

Much could be put-down to the extremely hot conditions and rock-hard pitch, but Notts fans will be hoping for a big improvement for when they travel to Lincoln to begin their League Two campaign in three weeks time.

Mendes: Goal

A goal in the second half from Junior Mendes was the Magpies solitary strike, after he converted Jason Lee's knock-down from a Jake Sheridan corner.

That was to be cancelled-out five minutes from the end by Hucknall substitute Oli Olaniperken, after Kevin Pilkington spilled a free-kick in the Magpies six-yard box under heavy pressure.

Thompson took the unusual approach of starting the game with his second Xl, which may explain why the Magpies failed to register a single effort on target until after the break.

Notts' best chance fell to Dan Martin, who volleyed wide after good work from right back Dan Gleeson.

Left back Steve Hunt - starting out-of-position at centre half - almost capped his unofficial Magpies debut with a stunning 40-yard own goal, that had Saul Deeney scampering to watch it clear the bar.

Notts improved somewhat after the break, with both their full-time fitness and the introduction of a number of senior pros showing as they pinned their hosts back in a way most were expecting to see prior to kick-off.

The Magpies had already come close through the lively Sheridan, before Mendes finally managed to break the deadlock mid-way through the half.

Thompson continued to make the changes though in a bid to give everybody a game, meaning the Magpies were perhaps understandably finding it difficult to maintain their rhythm.

Following the home side's deserved late equaliser, Notts twice came close to netting a late winner.

First, former Notts youth goalkeeper Greg Smith brilliantly denied Notts full-back Gary Silk after the best move of the match. Silk's rasping 20-yard drive tipped onto the crossbar.

Later, Mike Edwards - on at half-time - out-jumped the young keeper but guided his header narrowly over the bar.

Though not the most attractive of games to watch, positives for the Notts fans to take out of the game will have been solid showings from both of the right backs, Liam Needham, Tom Curtis and Andy Parkinson.

The second half strike partnership of Lee and Mendes also showed signs of promise, but there is still much to be done as Notts go into their second pre-season game at Arnold on Wednesday.

David Pipe was missing with an injury but should be fit enough to start his pre-season campaign in mid-week.

Notts First Half: Deeney; Gleeson, Somner (c), Hunt, Needham; Frost, Curtis, Martin, Sheridan; N'Toya, Dudfield.

Notts Second Half: Pilkington; Silk, White (c), Edwards, McCann; Sheridan (Dudfield, N'Toya), Curtis (Needham), Martin (Somner), Parkinson; Mendes, Lee.