Derby County will host Lincoln City in the League One on Thursday. But Lincoln travel to Pride Park with the knowledge that a win in the East Midlands will reduce their six-point lead to their opponents.
Preview (Derby County vs. Lincoln City)
Although it has occasionally been mentioned that Paul Warne could lose his job as Derby County manager. It is most definitely not the case at this time. Despite their sad FA Cup loss at the hands of Crewe Alexandra, the Rams have won six straight games in the third division and scored 16 goals during that run. Warne will be happy to see his team’s point total continue to rise.
After losing to Oxford United and Wigan Athletic at the start of the season, Derby has now gone eight games without losing at Pride Park in the league. In their last six league games, they have only allowed two goals. That is a statistic that Lincoln supporters, who are likewise gaining momentum under Michael Skubala, will take note of.
Although the Leeds United coach’s hiring was a bit of a surprise, he has steadied the ship and kept Lincoln in the running for the playoffs. Lincoln has amassed nine points from five games, with three draws as the drawback. However, they have also kept three clean sheets. Lincoln has won three of its last four away games, including a draw with Wigan Athletic. They earned victories over Leyton Orient and Cambridge United.
Team News
Tyrese Fornah could be recalled to replace Louie Sibley. Warne will have to decide whether to rotate his Derby XI. Tom Barkhuizen, who scored against Wycombe after entering the game as a substitute, will also be hoping to play. The Northern Ireland international will probably be held in reserve if Conor Washington is deemed fit. After being introduced as a half-time substitute at the weekend, Alistair Smith might be selected to start for Lincoln in place of Dylan Duffy.
Fellow youngster Jovon Makama continues to hunt for his first League One goal of the year. Jack Vale might also start in the center of the attack. This game should be competitive because both clubs have accumulated sizable winning streaks. Although Lincoln will be hoping for at least a point, we believe the Rams are playing with enough confidence to win this game by a goal or two to one.
Derby County 2-1 Lincoln City
For more football previews, click here
