Notts County vs Derby County
EFL Trophy
Northern Group G
Tuesday
10th October 2023
Meadow Lane
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the EFL Trophy fixture between Notts County and Derby County.
Notts County vs Derby County: Preview
Notts County form analysis
The Magpies got an excellent 2-0 away win at Salford thanks to goals from McGoldrick and Crowley. They then beat Forest Green in a seven goal thriller, with Crowley, Langstaff and McGoldrick on target in a 4-3 win. However, defensive issues surfaced in a high scoring 4-5 loss away at Colchester next time out, despite Langstaff netting twice. Notts returned to winning ways by comfortably beating Swindon 3-1 at home, with McGoldrick, Langstaff and Crowley all scoring. Last time out though, Notts suffered late heartbreak to draw 1-1 away at Barrow after going ahead through McGoldrick’s early penalty.
Overall, Notts have been excellent going forward, scoring 14 goals in their last 5 league games. McGoldrick and Langstaff have formed a prolific strike partnership. However, silly errors at the back have cost them points in games they should be winning. If the head coach can retain their attacking spark while eradicating mistakes defensively, Notts have an excellent chance of promotion this term. But improving their defensive focus is vital now.
Derby County form analysis
Derby got a late 1-1 home draw against Portsmouth, taking the lead through Collins’ penalty before Bishop’s stoppage time equalizer. They built on that by comfortably beating Carlisle 2-0 away, with Collins again netting twice. Derby then ground out a goalless home draw with Cambridge, keeping a vital clean sheet. They returned to winning ways by beating Blackpool 3-1 away, thanks to goals from Smith, Collins and Waghorn. Most recently, Derby earned another point on the road in a 1-1 draw at Cheltenham, equalizing on the stroke of halftime through Nelson after going behind.
Overall, Derby have made an encouraging start back in League One after escaping relegation last season. Striker Collins has impressed with 4 goals already as the focal point in attack. If they can add creativity from midfield to support Collins, Derby have the tools to push for promotion this term. But remaining hard to beat and turning draws into wins will be key – the gritty point at Cheltenham is a sign Derby are heading in the right direction after an inconsistent opening month.
