County travel to Bury tonight for the second round of the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy.
County overcame a weak Port Vale side at Edgeley Park in the 1st round.
Leon McSweeney grabbed the only goal in a 1-0 win.
Tonight will be a chance for some of the Development Squad to shine, but with the ruling of the Football League, at least 6 first teamers must play in the JPT.
The first teamers must have played at least 75% of league games this season.
County will be looking to extend their unbeaten run to 5 games tonight.
Vital Quotes:
Jim Gannon: ‘Slowly but surely, you can see the stuff we’re working on at the training ground taking root with the players.’
‘Now that performance and result will give them the confidence in what we’re trying to achieve.
‘I just want the players to have the work ethic and belief to keep improving.
‘I think we’ve seen growth n a lot of players in the years we’ve been here.
‘This year the challenge has brought more out of them – the challenge of different positions, the challenge of playing football, playing different shapes and systems. They’re getting better and better as players.
‘I’m pleased players are starting to shine, but collectively we’re starting to perform and get the results these individuals deserve.’
Bury Team News:
Bury have a fully-fit squad to choose from for the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy clash against Stockport.
Former County striker Glynn Hurst maystart, but usual first teamers Efe Sodje (Boooo!) and Elliott Bennett will be replaced by Ryan Cresswell and central midfielder Richie Baker.
Player to watch: Andy Bishop
Bishop scored 6 goals so far this season, and if the summer target for the Hatters does play, he will be looking to prove Jim Gannon right and ounish any County mistakes today.
County Team News:
BBC Sport:
Stockport boss Jim Gannon could again leave discarded skipper Gareth Owen on the sidelines.
Matty McNeil (calf) is Stockport’s only injury absentee, although Gannon said he could make tactical changes.
Player to watch: Gaz Dicker
Given the skippers armband tonight, Dicker will be looking to impress.
Match Facts & Stats
Bury – 13/10
Draw – 11/5
County – 13/8
Match Prediction:
2-1 County. A relatively large County following will be in good voice tonight.
Next Fixtures:
Southend v COUNTY
Saturday 11th October 08
L1
