While the goalless draw against Barnsley was giving Steve McClaren food for thought in the transfer market, neighbours Notts were notching up an impressive 3-0 win at Carlisle in League One.
Manager Martin Allen kept the Magpies in the division last season and his summer wheeling and dealing looks to have paid off.
"There is a great team spirit here and that's very pleasing," he told BBC Radio Nottingham after the game at Brunton Park.
The two sides are meeting competitively at the City Ground for the first time since a league game in October 1993 was settled by Stan Collymore's goal.