Luke Williams identifies key Notts County advantage ahead of National League opener

Notts County boss Luke Williams believes the atmosphere inside Meadow Lane could be a key contributor to his sides success this season, but insists his players are key to ramping up the volume.

The Magpies have enjoyed a successful pre-season ahead of their National League opener with Maidenhead United on Saturday afternoon, remaining undefeated across their five games, including wins of Leicester City, Alfreton Town and York City.

But arguably their most impressive performance came in their 2-2 draw against Premier League new boys Nottingham Forest at Meadow Lane, with 14,041 supporters crammed inside Meadow Lane to watch the Nottingham neighbours go head to head in what was an enthralling battle on Trent side.

Whilst 5929 of those were those supporting Steve Cooper's side, the Notts County boss believes the atmosphere created inside the ground on that day can be beneficial to his side throughout the National League season, but Williams was keen to reiterate that his players must do their bit to make Meadow Lane one of the most feared grounds in the league this season.

"It was a brilliant atmosphere, and that game in particular did not feel like a pre-season friendly. But, it's a two way thing, we need to give them something to shout about," explained Williams.

"The bare minimum is that the supporters see the players really trying to win the ball back and putting their body on the line, they need to see that level of intensity without the ball.

"They will love the players for that commitment to the cause, but we need to give them opportunities to cheer and to get excited when we are in and around the box as well and that can help us during the National League season."

When looking at the average attendances