Notts reach Semi-Final in Stanley Heames Trophy


Last Sunday the Supporters' Club's football team took part in a tournament organised by Coventry City Supporters Club.

They warmed up for the tournament with a narrow one-nil win over local side AFC Southside, James Odell with the last minute winner in a mid week friendly match.

Notts' first game in the competition was against the hosts, Coventry City. The Sky Blues seemed to be a much changed team from last season and set the early pace as the Magpies struggled to keep the ball.Eventually Notts got their game going but conceded a goal against the run of play which ultimately turned out to be the winner.

Next up were Bury and Notts got off to a much better start. Sam Brambles settled the nerves with the Pie's first goal of the competition but Bury soon equalised. More drama was to follow as Notts conceded a dubious penalty but keeper Phil Rippon became the hero with a superb penalty save to ensure the game finished one each.

  Notts had to win their last game against Burton Albion to ensure their passage to the next stage and the win was secured with two superb goals from James Odell. His first effort was a contender for goal of the tournament when he chipped the keeper fron 25 yards out.

The Magpies were through to the semi finals and it was Shrewsbury Town who stood in their way to the Final. Notts conceded an early goal but dominated the play and it seemed only a matter of time before they equalised. However, chance after chance went begging and Notts were unable to get the goal the desperately needed.

  Notts were out but all the players performed well and they can be proud of themselves.

  Leyton Orient went on to beat Shrewsbury to win the competition for the second year running.