‘Strength is clear’ - Derby County prepare for “entertaining” EFL Trophy match against Notts County

Derby County make the short trip to Nottingham tonight as they face Notts County in the second group stage fixture of the EFL Trophy.

The Rams opened their campaign with a 2-0 home win against Lincoln City two weeks ago and face a high flying Notts County side who will be looking for their first win of the competition.

Notts County are currently top of the table in League Two just 12 games after returning to the football league following their promotion from the National League.

The Magpies would have easily won the league title last season was it not for Hollywood-owned Wrexham who four points ahead of Notts County on 111 points.

They did however win the National League playoff final as they beat Chesterfield in a penalty shootout.

This is the Magpies’ first return to League Two for five years and so far it has treated them well.

Luke Williams’ side have earnt 24 points from 12 games with seven wins, three draws and two losses putting them top, one point ahead of last season’s playoff losers Stockport County.

Free scoring season

Their strength is clear to see when looking at the stats, they have scored 27 goals in 12 games which is the second most in League Two and have a number of attacking weapons at their disposal.

Notably Mcauley Langstaff who has eight goals joined by David McGoldrick on six and Daniel Crowley on five.

The Rams will be very familiar with one of those names as David McGoldrick had a career year for Derby last season, scoring 22 league goals and winning the player of the year award.

Luke Williams’ free scoring style of football could prove to be a tough test for the Rams who will need their defence to be on top form if they are to keep the Magpies from scoring.

However, this style of play does have its drawbacks. Despite leading the league, Notts County have conceded 21 goals in 12 games which is joint sixth most in League Two.

This doesn’t bode well for them facing a Derby County side who went into their last game against Cheltenham having scored more goals away from home than any team in the entire EFL.

Predictions

All this means that Meadow Lane should be (according to the stats) set to host a high scoring affair with both teams likely to threaten the opposing goalkeepers. All of which should make for an entertaining second group stage match.

The Rams are obviously the favourites here but as Notts County have proved so far this season, they are capable of playing quality football.

How to watch Notts County vs Derby County

The game tonight will be broadcast live on Rams TV from 6:30pm with kickoff at 7pm for fans with a subscription. The game will also be available via pay-per-view.

Furthermore, BBC Radio Derby will also be providing an audio commentary.

For Notts County fans IFollow will be showing the game for users with an active subscription.