Round-up from the Magpies' Development Squad meeting with Crewe...
Notts County Development Squad were beaten 5-0 by their Crewe Alexandra counterparts this afternoon. Crewe's side included a number of experienced professionals, who played a big part in the victory over a young Magpies line-up.
Youth team players Jack Golding, Elliot Hodge Tyler Guy, Glodie Bange and Kieran Duncan were drafted into the squad for the encounter at Crewe's training facility. Alexandra's side featured the likes of Nathan Ellington, Max Clayton, Anthony Grant and Byron Moore.
Goalkeeper Fabian Spiess was in fine form for the Magpies and made a string of fine saves either side of the break. But, there was nothing he could do to prevent Clayton from striking on three occasions - twice by converting low crosses and again from the penalty spot.
Notts threatened on a number of occasions through Jeremy Balmy, who struck narrowly wide at the end of the first period, before forcing an outstanding low save out of the home goalkeeper in the second half. Malcolm Melvin also came close from range, as did Kyle Dixon with a tight-angle finish that forced the stopper to parry over.
Alexandra's final two goals came from Billy Waters but, again, there was nothing Spiess could do to prevent them. It was a difficult test for the Magpies but a valuable test for the young players.
Look out for reaction from development squad coach Steve Hodge here on the official site.