Early blow as Magpies sunk in Trophy opener

NOTTS County fell to a 3-0 away defeat against Lincoln City in their opening Vertu EFL Trophy Northern Group D match.

- 

Goals from Sonny Bradley, Ben House and James Collins did the damage for the Imps.

Bradley opened the scoring in the eighth minute before the home side wrapped up the win after the break.

Magpies head coach Martin Paterson rang the changes following Saturday's League Two away win against Tranmere Rovers.

Scott Robertson marked his long-awaited return to the squad by taking the captain's armband, while Mai Traore, Will Jarvis, Lucas Ness, Jack Hinchy, Lewis Macari, Tyrese Hall and Harry Griffiths were also given their first starts of the season.

Traore started up front as a lone striker, supported by attacking midfielders Conor Grant and Hall.

Keanan Bennetts played on the opposite flank to Jarvis, while Hinchy partnered Robertson at the base of midfield.

Sonny Aljofree was the only player to keep his place from the win at Prenton Park, lining up on the right of a back three which was completed by Macari and Ness.