Magpies out to upset Latics

Last updated : 25 August 2008 By Dane Vincent

Having overcome Championship opposition already, Notts County are faced with an even bigger challenge after being drawn against the Premiership's Wigan Athletic in the second round of the Carling Cup.

Memories: Most fans will remember the clash with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge...
Although County will already be written off by the bookies and the media, there is no reason why Ian McParland's side cannot walk away with a ticket into the third round.

Just two years ago, County fought off a strong Middlesbrough side at the Riverside Stadium, to progress into the third round.

A similar feat will be required if Notts are to repeat previous cup runs that have kept Magpies' fans sane over the past decade.

Taking on the likes of Chelsea in the advanced stages of the domestic competitions have been shining lights in a dark spell for the club.

With consistent struggles, there has not been much to cheer about and without the odd cup run, many fans would have gone mad by now.

Tomorrow is a potentially another shining light, in what will hopefully be a brighter season for County.

Team news
Notts County
are likely to field a changed side for the trip to the JJB Stadium, especially as a few knocks were picked up in the weekend's clash with Luton Town.

Adam Nowland will definitely miss out after being withdrawn with a hamstring injury.

Russell Hoult may find himself in the starting line-up, as McParland may see this game as the perfect opportunity to give him some much needed match practice.

Also joining him could be Jay Smith, Neil Mackenzie, Spencer Weir-Daley,

Comeback?: Hoult may return to action tomorrow night...
Sean Canham and Ben Fairclough, who all played a part in beating Doncaster Rovers in the first round.

Notts' potential match-winner, Myles Weston, might be rested to ensure he is fit for the crucial encounter with high-flying Shrewsbury Town on Saturday.

Wigan Athletic may field many out of their strongest side in an attempt to boost morale.

The home side have lost both of their opening games, falling 2-1 to West Ham and 1-0 to Chelsea.

Facing lower league opposition would be a great opportunity to reverse their fortunes.

However, with eight of his players on international duty last week, Steve Bruce may use this game to try out some of his fringe players, with the league taking priority.

Former Magpie, Mike Pollitt will almost inevitably start in goal, with Chris Kirkland picking up an injury in the warm-up prior to the Chelsea game.

Erik Edman will be missing for the Latics with a knee ligament injury. He is not expected to return until October.

Ones to watch
Kevin Pilkington
or Russell Hoult - depending on who is given the nod - will have to be on top of their game against a tough Wigan side.

Notts will undoubtedly have to weather many storms if they are to come out of this game with anything, and whoever is between the sticks will be hugely important.

Taking the pressure off the back four will be vital, meaning that a commanding aerial presence is required, especially with the potential threat of powerful Emile Heskey.

Jason Koumas is the man who can pull all the strings in the centre of midfield for Wigan.

Play-maker: Koumas could cause problems in the centre...
At the weekend, he demonstrated his ability to pick out a defence splitting pass against Chelsea, setting Zaki clean through on goal, only for the forward to strike the ball at the onrushing Petr Cech.

Although he has not made a massive impact at the top level, his quality cannot be doubted, clearly shown by his consistently brilliant performances at Championship level over the years.

Key battle
Should Myles Weston feature, he will no doubt be directed to run at Mario Melchiot in the right-back position.

The Dutch defender has been guilty of the odd blunder throughout his time in the Premiership, and Weston will be looking to take advantage of this.

Melchiot has improved since he joined Wigan - enough to see him handed the captain's armband - and Notts' tricky winger will have to put in one hell of a performance to get the better of his opponent.

Last meeting
Wigan brushed aside Notts 3-1 at the JJB Stadium the last time the two sides met in 2000. Tony Dinning, Jason de Vos and Andy Liddell grabbed the Latic's goals, and Mark Stallard hit a late consolation in the 90th minute.

Betting
Ladbrokes have Notts down as a very long shot at 7/1, and a lengthy 4/1 to scrape a draw. As expected, Wigan are the favourites with odds of 1/4.

You can get a decent price of 40/1 for Notts to win 2-0, or 80/1 at the chance of Wigan running riot with a 7-0 victory.

Tickets
The prices for tomorrow's game are £15 for adults, £10 concessions and £1 for under 16s.

Season ticket holders over 16-years old will be able to claim a £5 discount if they purchase their tickets from Meadow Lane prior to travelling to Wigan.

Voucher 'F' from the season ticket booklet is required to qualify for this reduction.

Travel
Unfortunately, anyone wishing to travel by train would have to miss the end of the match, as the last train back to Nottingham is at 21.12. The 15.42 from Nottingham station arrives at Wigan North Western at 19.11.

Those travelling by car can get the directions from Meadow Lane to the JJB Stadium by clicking here...

Anyone wishing to travel by the supporters' coach can find information by clicking here…