Crewe will have to match County's competitve edge if we are to get a result says boss

Steve Davis says that this evening’s opponents Notts County will mirror the playing career of their manager Shaun Derry. The hard working midfielder made over 650 appearances during his career and as a boyhood County fan is determined to make the Magpies a contender for promotion from League One during his tenure.

After surviving relegation on the final day of last season, Derry has used the summer to reconstruct his squad and he has introduced the vast experienced of Roy Carroll, Hayden Mullins and Alan Smith to help inside the dressing room. The Magpies have certainly become harder to beat and have already drawn five of their games.

Ahead of our re-arranged meeting at Gresty Road, Steve said: “We are at home and this is another chance for us to get some points. It is our game in hand and if we can get a result then we are still in touching distance of those ahead of us.

“We know it will be another tough game because Notts County have improved under Shaun. They have decent players and a fight about them but then so do we.

“The game has come quickly after the Colchester game so it is the perfect chance for us to get something.

“I’ve seen Notts County and watched their clips as well. They typify what Shaun was all about as a midfield player. They are hardworking, tough and physical. They also have quality.

“Shaun will demand a strong work ethic and they will be organised and difficult to break down. We have got to move the ball around quicker and match their competiveness if we are going to get the upper hand in the game. 

He added: “The perfect way to respond to what happened to us on Saturday is to produce a good performance and get a result.”