Notts County secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Chesterfield in their League Two play-off semi-final first leg, with the miss of an early penalty proving decisive for the Spireites. Lee Bonis rattled the post from the spot after Liam Mandeville was fouled in the box, a moment that would haunt Chesterfield throughout the match at the SMH Group Stadium.

Jayden Luker capitalized on the missed opportunity just before the half-hour mark, finishing at the back post after a cross from Tom Iorpenda. The goal gave Notts County a narrow but valuable advantage heading into Friday's second leg at their own stadium, putting them in control of this two-legged tie.

Chesterfield's failure to convert their early penalty chance leaves them with a mountain to climb in the return fixture. Notts County will take confidence from their defensive display and the knowledge that a single goal could be enough to secure their place in the final. The second leg promises to be a tense affair as both teams battle for promotion.