Notts County 2-0 Accrington Stanley (EFL League Two) 07.09.24
Notts County’s unbeaten start to the season was extended on Saturday as the Magpies cruised past Accrington Stanley, courtesy of another David McGoldrick brace.
County dominated the match overall, boasting a possession percentile of just under 70%, as well as out-shooting their opponents by 8 shots on target to 3. This pressure would not take long to show itself on the scoreline as just 18 minutes into the contest, veteran County attacker McGoldrick picked the ball up from Jacob Bedeau and curled an effort into the top corner from just outside the area.
Notts were good value for their lead heading into the break having outperformed Accrington in all areas of the pitch, the only thing missing now was a second goal for security. That second goal would come from the boot of David McGoldrick once again, as he received the ball around 20 yards out from Curtis Edwards, following intricate play in the Accrington penalty area. The 36-year-old then hit it first time and the ball found its way into the opponent’s net, via a deflection, to give Stuart Maynard’s men a well-deserved, commanding lead.
That’s how the scoring would finish in this one, with the Magpies emerging victorious to retain their unbeaten start to the new season under Stuart Maynard. Other notable standout performers also included Tottenham Hotspur loanee George Abbott, who slotted into the County midfield seamlessly, impressing Notts fans on his full home debut.
This controlled and deserved win lifted Notts into 2nd place in the League Two table, only one point behind early front runners Doncaster Rovers, although it is early days yet. The next test for this group of players is a tricky visit to League Two newcomers Bromley, a side who started the season exceptionally well, beating both Wimbledon and Harrogate by 2 goals to 0. Andy Woodman’s side have historically gotten the better of Notts, as they have won 3 of the 8 matches between the two sides, whereas County have only managed one win. Will Notts be able to keep their unbeaten run intact as they travel to the capital? They will certainly have to be at their best if they are to do so.
Notts County: Bass, Macari, Platt, Bedeau, Austin, Edwards, Abbott, Hinchy (Palmer 68), Tsaroulla (Gordon 83), Grant (Brown 77), McGoldrick (Scott 76).
Accrington Stanley: Kelly, O’Brien, Rawson (Conneely 70), Batty (Henderson 78), Awe, Quirk (B. Woods 70), Whalley, Khumbeni, Love, Walton, Costelloe (J. Woods 70).
Venue: Meadow Lane (11,047).
*Article provided by Will Sey (Notts County Correspondent).
*Main image @Official_NCFC David McGoldrick (right) celebrating a second double in succession.
