Notts County chief praises after-match touch of class from Chesterfield boss
Opposition boss Martin Paterson acknowledged a sporting gesture from Chesterfield chief Paul Cook after Notts County side edged them out over two tight play-off encounters.
County’s goal in the first meeting at the SMH, combined with a goalless draw in the return at Meadow Lane, proved enough to book a Wembley final against Salford on May 25.
Although it meant a second exit from the play-offs in as many years for the Spireites, Cook swallowed his disappointment to go and congratulate the County camp.
“Chesterfield are a really good team,” said Paterson, speaking to the Derbyshire Times. “They shaded the league games and got the two victories so I knew how difficult it would be.
"I have the upmost respect for their manager. He came in at the end and wished us the best of luck, which is a classy act.
"I also know what losing feels like.
“As I said, I have a lot of professional respect for the manager and the coaching staff there but this was our day.”
The final pits the two-highest team placed sides in the League Two play-offs against each other in fourth-placed Salford and fifth-placed Notts.
Paterson added: “I don't want the players to go away celebrating. I want them to go and spend time with their families and enjoy the win.
"It was a really high pressure game. Chesterfield threw the kitchen sink at us but we stood firm and came through.
"My job is to make sure Notts County are successful and we keep fighting for our prize.”