A day etched in many East Midlands football fans’ calendars, on Saturday Notts County head to the One Call Stadium to face local rivals Mansfield Town.
The Stags still have a slim chance of reaching the SkyBet League Two play-offs, as they currently sit 13th and six points behind AFC Wimbledon.
While manager Adam Murray admitted promotion would be “a miracle”, it is not completely impossible.
Notts are 17th after pulling away from the relegation zone under Mark Cooper and know they have every chance of getting a result against their local rivals after a run of good results, including back-to-back wins against Stevenage and Hartlepool.
What do the managers say?
Video: Adam Murray on the opposition and what Saturday means
Looking back at Mansfield’s 2-0 victory at Meadow Lane in August, Murray said: “It seems a long time ago now but we were very much on it that night.
“It’s important that come one o’clock on Saturday, that we have got the same focus and drive. Our build up all week has been about the importance of what a local derby means.
“I think you’ve seen all season that our lads play with a lot of fighting spirit every game. The energy will be cranked up for this one.”
Murray’s opposite number Mark Cooper is eagerly awaiting the fixture and says preparation can go out of the window once the game kicks off.
Cooper said: “Once you’re actually involved in the game you forget all that, all the build-up to it, like the bragging rights and all that.
“It’s usually the team that deals with the occasion the best that comes out on top and it’s important that you play the game and not the occasion.”
Likely line-ups:
Click on our interactive graphics for team news on key players in what are possible starting line-ups for both sides.
Police Warning:
Notts County fans may find it difficult to wet their whistle in Mansfield before the game on Saturday.
Jon Sleigh, Nottinghamshire Police’s football intelligence officer tweeted:
“Be advised there are no identified public houses for the travelling Notts support. Town centre bars are very much home only. Notts fans are advised to make alternative arrangements should you wish for a pre-match drink. Notts fans who arrive early are encouraged to use the facilities at the stadium. Alcohol on sale.”
Kick-off: 1pm Saturday, April 16 2016
How can I keep track of the game?
The game is not being televised but you can join Colin Slater and BBC Radio Nottingham for live commentary and build up from 12pm.
