“Enzio Boldewijn has been huge for us this season, and has scored some crucial goals“
The opposition interview series reaches number 15, this time it’s @NottsCWorld who answer our questions on the men from Meadow Lane:
Hi there, thanks for talking to us – before we go on, tell us a bit about yourself and your support for the Magpies?
My mum took me when I was about 8, to a friendly against Forest I believe. I kept going sporadically until the game against Aston Villa in the Cup, and I’ve gone most games since.
So remind us, how did a big team like County end up in the Conference?
It’s down to a lot of reasons really. Recruitment last summer was abysmal for starters. We signed some incredible players but ones who just didn’t have the right attributes to link up with each other. On top of that, Sacking two managers before Christmas also didn’t help our survival campaign!
Who are the new owners and what are your first impressions of them so far?
Our owners are Danish Businessmen who own football scouting company football Radar. They are a breath of fresh air compared to our ex-owner, who plastered everything on social media. These have used the official channels to convey info, and have stayed under the radar, something Notts fans have been calling out for.
How’s your recent form been heading into Saturday’s game?
After a rough start to the season, it seems we’re finally picking up form. We only had our transfer embargo lifted days before the season started, so it certainly took a while to 1. Get players in and 2. Wait for them to settle down. We’re unbeaten in 4, and haven’t conceded at Home in 4 games either.
What are your highlights of the season so far?
Highlights of the season have to be our two away wins, both on Tuesday nights. One against Harrogate, and probably the better out of the two, the win against Boreham Wood. Youngster Sam Osbourne scored his first ever goal in front of 250 travelling Notts fans, and it was a screamer! Notts’ 5-1 win at home to Chorley was also a great day, and took us all by surprise!
Who are your key players and why?
Enzio Boldewijn has been huge for us this season, and has scored some crucial goals. Kristian Dennis hasn’t started as many games as Notts fans would like, but has scored some important goals off the bench. In Defence, Ben Turner has come in and has shored up the defence, whilst ‘Keeper Sam Slocombe has been a bright spark in the net.
What’s Meadow Lane like for those who haven’t visited before?
Meadow Lane is a big stadium that’s way too big for us. The away end houses just under 4000, and is very rarely packed. Away fans are normally either in the middle or in the corner, depending on the trouble they cause. To the right of the away end is the Kop Stand, where most of the atmosphere comes from, whilst directly opposite you is the Main Stand, named after Legendary manager Jimmy Sirrell. The away end is on County Road, and stewards will direct you into the correct ticket collection point.
Where’s best for pre-match food and drinks near the ground?
Torquay fans can have a drink and something to eat in the Southbank Bar, about a 15 minute walk. Fans can also go into the Trent Bridge Inn, the world renowned pub on the side of the cricket ground. Both are normally away friendly, although it’s best to look at Twitter beforehand just to check. That’s also about a 15 minute walk.
How have the attendances been holding up this season?
Attendances have been surprisingly good, especially for the league we’re in. We’ve been getting 5-6000 regularly depending on away fans, and last week got 9000 at the Lane, although ticket prices were only £3! Quite a few Notts fans were disappointed with that, with the previous £2 offers attracting over 15,000 fans.
What are your expectations for the rest of 19-20, can you mount a promotion challenge?
Promotion is certainly a possibility after the recent form. We’ve got a squad capable of promotion, but it all depends if they show it or not.
And finally, it’s a game a lot of the Yellow Army have been looking forward to – what is your match prediction?
It’ll be a tough game. I’m going 1-1, although either side could nick it!
Cheers mate
torquaytalk.com – @TORQUAYTALK
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