[Exile on Spencer St]

Well, given the first twenty minutes, it could have been a lot worse.
But pity it took Stanley until the second half to exhibit some attacking intent and desire to compete. First half they let an admittedly more experienced, stronger, quicker, and generally superior squad run things how they wanted.
The difference was exemplified by the two opposing centre halves. As soon as Notts got the ball from Trafford and pushed it a yard ahead of him he was closed down, resulting in him having to rush a hopeful long ball.
Their centre half was rarely challenged until he got near the half way line. Exactly the same thing happened last week against Plymouth.

Even when they brought the ball out and we’re looking for attacking options, a Stanley player rarely ever made a run into space ahead. Stanley players seem always to receive the ball facing their own goal, so backward or sideways passes are often the only option.
First half tactics seem to be to (a) stand still and wait for the ball to come to their feet, and if it did, (b) wait to let the opposition defence get organised in front of them.
Perhaps Stanley figured they would be able to pass their way through the opposition, with quick little one/twos, so why bother running behind their defenders into space.
Absolutely fabulous when it comes off, but it seems to be making the ‘simple’ game into a very difficult one for a League 1 team with a depleted squad.

Just glad both Mansell and Mombongo got on the score sheet, but really worried that Leigh’s injury looked serious.