Notts County boss Stuart Maynard has expressed unwavering belief in his side’s ability to overcome a 1-0 deficit against AFC Wimbledon and book a place at Wembley.
Despite key absences, the Magpies remain optimistic ahead of the second leg of their League Two play-off semi-final clash.
Maynard Confident as Notts County Seek Wembley Comeback
The Magpies trail 1-0 after the opening fixture but will return to Meadow Lane buoyed by a strong performance that fell short on the scoreboard.
The Dons took the lead late on through a Riley Harbottle header, but it was a goal that came after County had carved out several chances, only to be denied by a resolute Wimbledon defence. Goalkeeper Owen Goodman and defender Josh Neufville were instrumental in keeping the visitors at bay before Harbottle’s decisive moment.
Adding to County’s challenge, top scorer Alassana Jatta is suspended following a late red card for a two-footed tackle on Alistair Smith. Veteran forward David McGoldrick is also sidelined after limping off in stoppage time during the first leg. But Maynard is not dwelling on absentees.
“I am confident,” he stated. “Even though they have got the best defensive record in the league, you will not see another team open them up the way we opened them up in the first leg.”
AFC Wimbledon boasted the strongest defensive record in League Two during the regular season, but Maynard believes his side’s attacking display at Plough Lane gives them a strong platform.
“We need to make sure we play to the same level that we did in the first leg,” he added. “That is what it is going to take if we want to get through and get to Wembley.”
Maynard’s faith in his squad depth could prove crucial, with enforced changes on the horizon. “I believe in this group,” he said. “If we have to make changes I believe in the players that will come on the pitch.”
The Magpies are aiming to return to Wembley, just a year after their dramatic promotion from the National League. Standing in their way is a Wimbledon side determined to continue their upward trajectory under manager Johnnie Jackson, who has transformed the South London outfit into one of League Two’s toughest defensive units.
Writer’s View
Notts County’s attacking threat remains a potent weapon, even in the absence of Jatta and McGoldrick. While Wimbledon’s discipline and structure have been key to their success, Maynard’s men demonstrated in the first leg that they are capable of creating chances against the best.
With home advantage and a fired-up squad, County still have every chance of turning the tie around. The real test will be whether their second-string attackers can step up on the biggest domestic stage of their season so far.
