Team News
Notts: David Pipe returns to the squad after a three game suspension. Pipe was dismissed at Accrington and has since missed one win, one loss and one draw. Captain Alan White is fit for selection, but it is unsure if he will start. Junior Mendes still isn't fit to start, whilst Dan Gleeson misses out through suspension.
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Form Guide
Notts: Following the midweek 1-1 draw with Barnet, Notts are showing signs of inconsistency. Four points from nine in the last three games highlights this. Overall in 2007, Notts have lost just once, so can remain fairly confident. At home, the victory over bottom side Torquay United a fortnight ago is Notts' only victory in six home performances.
Lincoln: Just one win in five might show that the Imps are beginning to falter, on the contrary they have lost just twice in eleven. They have drew too many games in recent times, but returned to winning ways at home to Peterborough last week. In 2007, the Imps have a record of one win, one defeat and three draws.
Key Man
Notts: Mike Edwards has been in great form for the majority of the season, though he did suffer a dip in recent weeks. However, after a commanding midweek display, his performance will be vital as he faces former team mate Mark Stallard and League 2 hotshot Jamie Forrester. Shackling this pair will be one of Edwards' biggest tasks of the season.
Lincoln: Lee Frecklington is the midfield dynamo. The diminutive Lincoln born ace has risen through the ranks to be the central figure at Sincil Bank. Despite being courted by other clubs, he showed his loyalty signing a new deal recently. His passing and ability to score… he has nine to his name… from midfield will be a constant threat.
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Danger Man
Notts: If Andy Parkinson shows his best, as he did for the first 45 against Barnet, Lincoln will have one of the trickiest players in League 2 on their hands. He hasn't quite hit his best this season, but showed his capabilities to be a match winner on Tuesday.
Lincoln: Jamie Forrester is the man the Imps look to for goals. With three hat-tricks, Forrester has shown that when he is in the mood, he can score in abundance. Hasn't scored too many of late, it is only a matter of days before he returns to his blistering best, Notts have to beware.
Managers view:
Notts: Speaking in the ‘Lincolnshire Echo' Thompson was of the belief that Lincoln have defied the expectations and have become something of a surprise package. After such a good start Thompson said he, aswell as other managers, were surprised at Lincoln's ability to stay amongst the Championship chasers.
Lincoln: Head Coach John Schofield said: “It's going to be like a home game. Our backing away from home has been sensational. Tomorrow's support will be crucial as it will really lift the lads.”
Likely line-ups:
Notts: Pilkington, Silk, Edwards, White, McCann, Pipe, Ross, Smith, Parkinson, Lee, Dudfield
Lincoln: Marriot, Eaden, Beevers, Brown, Moses, Amoo, Frecklington, Kerr, Hughes, Forrester, Stallard
Drapes' Prediction: Notts to win 2-1, with Dudfield and Lee on target.