Notts Forest 3 PNE 0. With died in the wool North Ender Paul McKenna scoring the opener for Forest. Forest are on a roll at the moment under Billy Davies. Can he get 3 clubs into the play-offs? So from that point of view maybe there wasn’t going to be much today for PNE whatever.
Since Sean St Ledger left for Middlesbrough both teams have moved down the table, with PNE now 15th and Middlesbrough just above. Is this coincidence? Will Sean be returning when the payment is due or the payment be less? North End’s main problem seems to be an inability to score goals. I’ve long thought Neil Mellor was going to be the man but it seems I was wrong. He’s been available most of the season and hasn’t scored much and from what I’ve read isn’t looking like he will.
In reality the results havn’t been that bad but have been going from inconsistent to poor. Losing at home to Reading who were almost bottom, then winning away. More recently drawing at home and away or losing by the odd goal without replying which is becoming ominous.
Naturally Alan Irvine will come under pressure if it continues over the next 3 games. PNE have reached a point in the table where they can still easily get into the play-offs or slip into the relegation zone. Alan’s name has been mentioned for higher places and all the supporters were glad he stayed. Now he’s got a test and we hope he get’s through it.
Next three league games against Yorkshire teams and at least 6 points are expected although 4 might be more realistic.