Magpies challenged to be more forward-thinking

MARTIN Paterson believes last weekend's defeat at Gillingham was just an off day for Notts County as they prepare for a return to Meadow Lane this weekend.

- By SAM ALLEN

The Magpies take on Crawley Town this weekend, looking to get back on track after a defeat last Saturday against the unbeaten Gills.

It was a narrow 1-0 loss for Paterson's men, who had built up a small unbeaten run of their own in recent weeks after a slow start.

The County boss was frustrated with his side's inability to manage the circumstances of the game, conceding straight after halftime following a solid first-half showing.

After a week to decompress and prepare for Crawley, Paterson put the loss down to a blip amidst a busy league schedule, falling back on the team’s recent good form.

“Your emotions are still raw when speaking immediately after the game,” admitted Paterson, pictured.

“I was angry because it was a game where we didn’t settle down with the ball to play our way, which we have to own.