Notts County secured their place in the League Two play-offs despite a 1-1 draw against in-form Bristol Rovers, a result that saw the Magpies miss out on automatic promotion. Martin Paterson's side will now face Chesterfield in a crucial play-off battle.

The home side, Notts County, initially took the lead in the 27th minute through Bristol-born wing-back Nick Tsaroulla. He slotted home from 10 yards after Alassana Jatta's downward header from Jodi Jones' angled cross deflected off Rovers defender Clinton Mola, setting up the opportunity.

Bristol Rovers, known as the Pirates, found their equalizer in the 55th minute. Ellis Harrison powerfully drove in his 14th goal of the season, sending the ball through the legs of County keeper James Belshaw. This goal followed a superb long cross-field pass from substitute Tommy Leigh, bringing the score to 1-1.

Before Harrison's goal, Rovers had several opportunities to score. Shaq Forde saw a cross-shot pushed away by James Belshaw early on, then drove against the keeper's legs when clean through, and later steered wide from a tight angle. Substitute Yusuf Akhamrich also rolled a great chance wide with just 11 minutes remaining.

Notts County believed they had clinched a late winner five minutes from time. Jacob Bedeau touched in from close range after Matthew Dennis' chipped cross-shot had struck a post. However, the centre-back's effort was ruled out for offside, denying the Magpies a crucial victory.

Even a win for Notts County would not have been enough to secure a top-three spot, as Cambridge United did enough by drawing 0-0 at Crewe. The focus for Martin Paterson's team now shifts entirely to the League Two play-offs, where they will aim to overcome Chesterfield and fight for promotion.