notts county - salford city league two play-off final
The anticipation reached a fever pitch on May 25, 2026, as Notts County hosted Manchester United in a highly anticipated League Two fixture. Fans gathered in hope of witnessing a classic encounter that would leave a lasting mark on the season's standings.
First Half Dominance
The match began with a palpable intensity, both sides battling for every inch of grass. Manchester United faced early disciplinary struggles as Nicholas Tsaroulla picked up a yellow card in the 22nd minute. The deadlock was finally broken in the 32nd minute when Notts County launched an incisive attack; Jodi Jones showcased his vision by finding Alassana Jatta, who made no mistake in slotting the ball home to give the hosts the lead.
As the interval approached, the pressure from the home side intensified. Just before the half-time whistle in the 45th minute, Notts County doubled their advantage. Rodney McDonald was the architect, providing a pinpoint assist for Lucas Ness, who finished with composure. The goal came moments after Haji Mnoga had been cautioned, leaving the visitors in a precarious position as they headed into the tunnel.
Consolidation and Final Control
Following the restart, Manchester United attempted to claw their way back with tactical changes, bringing on Benjamin Woodburn for Matt Butcher. However, Notts County’s robust defensive shape held firm, even as Lucas Ness received a yellow card of his own in the 57th minute. Further substitutions, including the introduction of Fabio Borini and Kadeem Harris, sought to provide a spark for the visitors, but it was a home substitution that made the immediate impact.
Conor Grant, having entered the fray shortly before, turned provider in the 70th minute by setting up Jodi Jones for the third goal of the afternoon. This strike effectively sealed the result. The closing stages saw the tempo slow down with a series of strategic substitutions from both managers. Despite a late yellow card for Benjamin Woodburn in stoppage time, the outcome was never in doubt, and the referee blew the final whistle after nine minutes of added time to confirm a commanding victory for Notts County.
