Keith Curle felt that Brentford’s controversial equaliser changed the game on Saturday afternoon, as the Magpies were defeated 2-1 at Meadow Lane.
Notts had gained a 20th lead over the promotion rivals Brentford, when Julian Kelly’s low cross resulted in away centre-back Tony Craig slicing into his own net.
Uwe Rösler’s side drew level 17 minutes later through Adam Forshaw, though the video footage showed that he was in an offside position when he received the decisive pass.
The visitors left it late to snatch all three points, with Clayton Donaldson finding the net at close range just two minutes from time.
“We started the game very well, on the front foot and playing the way that we wanted to play,” said Curle.
“We got the ball down, had good movement and rotation in our play, and we looked a threat.
“We got the goal but their goal changed the game as well and, being honest, it was a foul on Jeff Hughes.
“I’ve watched it back and it was a yard offside – that deflated us.”
He continued: “In the second half, we didn’t play the way that I wanted us to play – we went long and we went direct.
“That will change, we will go back to playing how we want to play.
“I will demand to the players that we do get the ball down and play, because to go long just becomes too predictable.”
For full post-match reaction, sign in to Magpie Player.
You can give Magpie Player as a gift this Christmas by visiting www.player.nottscountyfc.co.uk/gift-voucher.