Development Squad Coach Steve Hodge was proud of his squad despite defeat on Tuesday...
The Notts Development Squad lost 3-1 to a very strong and experienced Chesterfield side on Tuesday, but Development Squad Coach Steve Hodge was proud of his squad.
Two goals from Jay O’Shea put the hosts in control, but Notts rallied back with a neat finish from striker Adam Coombes. And seconds later returning winger Andy Haworth rattled the post with a fine effort.
The end-to-end game meant plenty of chances for both sides, but it was the Spireites that got the crucial third from Ollie Banks with a fantastic curling short from 25-yards out.
Hodge told the Official Site after the final whistle: “In terms of creation, passing the ball, the work ethic and moving the ball I was very happy. We gave away a couple of cheap goals in the first half, but that happens in games.
“Our boys are bound to learn from these experiences. You can’t make those mistakes, but they showed great character and continued to fight and played well.
“I thought we were excellent throughout. The player’s put a good shift in and even when they were 3-1 down, they did it right. We were professional right until the 94th minute and that’s what I want to see.
“I was pleased for Coombesy to get another goal, but he creates a lot for other players too. He’s a clever footballer. It’s now his challenge to continue scoring in my team and then progress into the first team.
“They are all developing. The back four was strong and they were all passing it out of defence. It might sound a bit daft with the scoreline, but all round I was happy.
“All that was lacking was the final end product, and that’s always the hardest to find.
“And I was pleased to see Andy Haworth back. He’s obviously missed most of the season with illness, but he got a good 45-minutes today and he impressed me. He needs games now and get sharp.
“It was a loss, but we were playing more or less against their first team, who are top of the league currently. The likes of Ian Evatt and Gary McSheffrey played and they have been around a long time."
Magpie Player subscribers can watch highlights of the game by clicking here.
To see more photos from the behind closed door friendly visit the club’s Facebook Page by clicking here.
Notts: Spiess, Thompson, Bennett, Holt, Guy, Melvin, Haworth, Dixon, Tempest, Coombes, Murray.
Subs: Lavelle-Moore, Waite, Balmy, Nangle.