Two scrappy goals were Notts County's undoing today against Chester City, according to Manager Ian McParland.

Goals in the early stages of either half condemned County to a 2-1 defeat at Meadow Lane.

"Two scrappy goals cost us dearly today and it was one of those games where they sat back and got men behind the ball," said the Manager afterwards.

"We didn't pick up for the first goal from a set-play at the far post and that wasn't good enough.

"The second was a very poor goal too. I've had a word with Jamie Clapham - who has been superb for us this season - and he just let the ball bounce when he shouldn't have.

"We had a few off days today to sum it up."

County dominated for long spells but failed to turn their superiority into goals.

"We had chances but we didn't put them away which was frustrating," said McParland.

"We mounted some late pressure and gambled by playing it long to the three lads up top by switching to 3-4-3 and although we had a lot of the game I am totally disappointed in my players.

"I told them before the game although Chester were struggling it wasn't guaranteed we would win.

"Chester worked their guts off and their Manager should be proud of them; I feel they deserved it.

"It was a good chance to get three points today and we're better than what we showed out there.

"Our supporters had every right to moan and I understand why."