Oppositions View - Leyton Orient

Last updated : 03 September 2007 By Gary Moss

Notts fell at the first hurdle in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy last season.

The Magpies were victim to a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Barnet in a dour

Meadow Lane...To host Johnstone Paint Trophy tie
affair at Meadow Lane.

A season low gate of 1,200 saw an uninterested County side lose without so much of a whimper.

Thompson's side reached the last eight of the Carling Cup with the giant killings of Crystal Palace, Southampton and Premiership outfit Middleborough.

This great run overshadowed any desire they had to advance in the years 'Mickey Mouse' event.

But, after a 3-0 loss at Coventry just three weeks ago in this season's League Cup, the old LDV Vans trophy is the black and whites only realistic hope of cup success.

Notts face a tough test against League One's high flying Leyton Orient.

And, after a slow start in the league thus far, you can expect a more vibrant display in this evenings tie.

In need of a match winning performance, Notts should be eager to take the scalp of the third tiers table toppers.

NCM spoke to ex-Orient academy player Mike Froggatt and fifteen-year devoted fan Greg Niebank ahead of tonight's game.

How do you assess your side's recent form?

GN: Very good although I'm not getting carried away as its still early days.
Boyd...O's star man


MF: Excellent which after last season is a nice surprise

NCM: Orient have got off to a great start, top of the table with four games played. Wins over promotion hopefuls Southend and Crewe means theres a feel good factor at Brisbane Road.

Who would you say is your key player?

GN & MF: Adam Boyd

NCM: The 25-year-old striker could prove a thorn in the side of Notts as they look to advance in this competition. He signed for the O's from Luton after a disappointing spell at Kenilworth Road. But, there is no doubting his quality. He scored over 50 goals during his six-year spell with his local club Hartlepool United. He was tracked by Middleborough for some time but just missed out on his dream move to the Riverside. Plying his trade in League One now, he is a dangerous player for sure.

Who else should we look out for?


GN: Sean Thornton

MF: Wayne Gray


What is the first thing you think of when you think of Notts County?

GN: That they are the oldest club in the English League

Sirrel...Famous Notts legend
MF: Jimmy Sirrel former manager and character


Who do you see as Notts' danger men?

GN: No idea, I don't need to follow League 2 football anymore!

MF: Jason Lee

NCM: Notts' top scorer last season, Jason Lee, has yet again been touted as the Magpies biggest threat. His physical presence makes him a tricky customer. Let's hope 'Big Jase' is on cue to deliver.



How do you rate Notts boss Steve Thompson?


GN: Not bad, kept them in touch with the play off places last year

MF: Good steady manager

NCM: Thommo certainly is steadying the ship, bringing in plenty of fresh
Thompson...Good steady manager
faces since arriving last summer. He took over a side who nearly lost their Football League status and has turned them into serious play off contenders.

Where do you think you will finish this season?

GN: Just outside play off's

MF: Hopefully in the play off's

NCM: In just their second season in League One since earning automatic promotion in 2005, The O's have bridged the gap with ease. Avoiding relegation last season and now looking big contenders for a top six finish, fans have every right to be optimistic.

Where do you think Notts will finish this season?
GN: Mid table

MF: Play off's

What is your starting line-up likely to be?


GN: I think he will rest a few first team places and bring in some of the reserves

MF: Not Sure we have some injuries and suspensions

NCM: The Johnstone Paint Trophy is hardly the most prestigious competition either side will enter this season and the result could boil down to the managers team selection.

What sort of encounter are you expecting?


GN: I think it will be quite a dull game as I don't think either team will be particular up for it

MF: Hard fought game

Prediction?

GN: 3-1 O`s

MF: Draw

NCM: Orient will just have too much for Notts. 2-1.