Surely the last time Notts fans visit Meadow Lane before the summer break, Saturdays reduced prices clash with the Quakers will hopefully be an exciting encounter similar to the last home game against Walsall. Defeat that day, despite a good performance, all but mathematically condemned the Magpies to another season of League 2 football. Now, two wins from two are needed plus a whole clutch of clubs to lose two. Unlikely to happen, let us hope Notts send us home happy for the last time this campaign.
Team News
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Notts - Myles Weston is out through the hamstring injury that saw him substituted at Hartlepool, whilst fellow Charlton loanee James Walker is a doubt following illness. Jay Smith and Gary Silk are both back in midfield contention after missing the 1-1 draw at Victoria Park. Stephen Hunt is out after his red card in the same game.
Darlington - Michael Cummins and Martin Smith have both gone under the knife and miss Darlos final two fixtures. Ricky Ravenhill has completed a two-match suspension and should replace Cummins on the wing, whilst Gregg Blundell is again out through injury and Simon Johnson will only feature from the bench.
Form Guide
Notts - Without a win in two, with defeat against Walsall followed by a draw at Hartlepool. However, taking the last six games into account, Notts have accumulated thirteen points from a possible eighteen and can remain confident given their good displays against the top two. At home, Notts are unbeaten in four and have lost just once in eight.
Darlington - A point ahead of Notts in the league, Dave Penney's men picked up three points against Wycombe in their last outing. However, that was their first win in five, a run that has seen them virtually leave the playoff race. With only two wins in nine, the Quakers will also be looking for their first away win in five.
Key Men
Notts - Surely Player of the Season elect, Mike Edwards will have to step up to the mantle and perform at his brilliant best with usual defensive partner Stephen Hunt suspended. Youngster Michael Byron is set to make his debut,
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Darlington - Neil Wainwright. Fresh from his brace against Wycombe, the tricky winger is in fine form which can be dangerous for any opponents. Darlington's best player when Notts won 1-0 at the 96.6 TFM Darlington Arena shortly after Christmas, Wainwright is lively with a good cross and clever feet. If he hits top form, Notts' defence will have to be aware his creativity and individual skills that can decide games in the Quakers' favour.
Probable line-ups
Notts (4-3-3) - Kevin Pilkington, David Pipe, Michael Byron, Mike Edwards, Austin McCann, Gary Silk, Matt Somner, Jay Smith, Andy Parkinson, Jason Lee, Lawrie Dudfield
Darlington (4-4-2) - Sam Russell, Scott Wiseman, Patrick Collins, Mark Phillips, Evan Horwood, Neil Wainwright, Ricky Ravenhill, David Rowson, Mark Predergast, Julian Joachim, Alun Armstrong
Key Clash
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As with many games this season, Lee's presence will be vital in determining which way this match will go. If Lee wins his personal duel, you will always fancy Notts to have a chance of three points. He is vital to the cause, and his experience and powerful nature make him the man on which a lot of Notts' game plan is built - particularly when performing with three strikers. 6 ft 2 Collins matches Lee in terms of physique, and will have to win more balls in the air for Darlington to hope of keeping a clean sheet. A clean sheet will come largely on the basis of shackling Lee and his aerial presence. If they do this, they may only need one goal
Danger Men
Notts - Andy Parkinson was roundly criticised by Notts supporters for the start he made to the season. After his previous spell with the club, Magpies fans expected the winger to be a fantastic signing, but he failed to spark during Notts' good early season form. However, since the turn of the year - and the
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Darlington - Julian Joachim was once the fastest player in the Premiership, and that pace remains a very real threat. With Hunt out for the hosts, Notts may lack sufficient pace to cover the former Leicester ace, making him dangerous whenever put through on goal. Should he create himself enough space, he can be lethal and is Darlington's top scorer with ten goals - highlighting his ability.
Drapes' Prediction: Notts to triumph in this one. After predicting a defeat last week, I can't predict another one and believe a final home game win is there for the taking against an injury ravaged Darlington. 2-0 with a goal each for Lee and Dudfield.