Notts v Hartlepool... Match Preview

Notts County play for the first time in ten days at home to Hartlepool on Tuesday 5^th December. It seems an eternity has passed since the Magpies lost at league leaders Walsall by two goals to one, despite coming out of the game unlucky not to have picked up at least a point. This makes the top of the table clash all the more important.

Whilst Hartlepool appear to be off the pace in tenth, they are only four points off Notts, and a win tomorrow would therefore see them enter the Playoff race. Danny Wilson, reportedly in the front running for the Notts job prior to Steve Thompson taking charge, has steadily built a squad that will always appear a danger on the attack, but are perhaps suspect to an away goal or

Mendes... Illness doubt

two. It will be intriguing. The Pool, defeated by Macclesfield Town in the Fa Cup on Saturday, therefore missing out on an away tie at Chelsea, will perhaps be the less fit side of the two , but they go into the game with a squad featuring players who performed well at a higher level last season, such as Jon Daly, Joel Porter and Richie Humphreys.

Notts have slight concerns over striker Junior Mendes, who has been struggling with flu, whilst Stephen Hunt is definitely out with his long term knee injury. Hartlepool will be without John Brackstone, Joel Porter and Graham Low to injuries, whilst James Brown is struggling.

Possible Notts eleven

Kevin Pilkington

Dan Gleeson Alan White Mike Edwards Austin McCann

David Pipe Matt Somner Ian Ross Andy Parkinson

Jason Lee Junior Mendes

If Mendes doesn't make it, Lawrie Dudfield should start. Jay Smith will remain in contention after a good performance at Walsall, and may keep his place, likewise Gary Silk. Daryl McMahon will also be looking for a start. However, this has been Steve Thompson's favoured eleven for the majority of the season.

Drapes' Prediction: 1-1 Draw, Notts to go behind.