15:00 – Coventry v Notts County
Coventry begin a campaign in the fourth tier of English football for the first time since 1958-59 at home to Notts County. The Sky Blues have had a torrid time in ‘recent’ years thanks to awful owners Sisu, but there was a glimmer of success as they lifted the CheckaTrade Trophy at Wembley in front of 43,000 Coventry fans. Their most impressive signing has been former player Michael Doyle, who captained Portsmouth to the League Two title last year.
Meanwhile, Notts County boast one of the most experienced front lines in the football league with 35-year-old Shola Ameobi being partnered with 34-year-old Jon Stead. Manager Kevin Nolan has high hopes for his side and the play-offs may be within reach. A point or three in this fixture would be a huge statement to the rest of the league.
Stat Zone
Coventry
- Finished 23rd in League One last season – 11 points from safety.
- Will be playing in the 4th tier for 1st time in 58 years next season (1958-59).
- Mark Robins was reappointed in March 2017 – picked up 44 pts from 75 available in 1st spell. Record in 2nd spell in all comps – P12 W5 D1 L6 (11 in league – W4 D1 L6).
- 15 wins in last 67 league games (D16 L36).
Notts County
- Finished 16th last season – 10 pts clear of relegation & 14 pts from the playoffs.
- This is their 3rd consecutive season in L2.
- Kevin Nolan was appointed – his previous management experience was at Leyton Orient (league record – P16 W8 D2 L6). League record with Notts County – P21 W10 D4 L7. 1 defeat in 10 at home (W6 D3).
- No win in last 3 away league games (D1 L2) – lost last 2.
H2H - Notts County unbeaten and not conceded in last 3 league meetings (W2 D1).
Coventry fans will be relieved that they can finish 7th and still gain promotion in League Two, they haven’t finished in the top six of ANY division since the season of 1969-70. One of the problems the Sky Blues face is the fact that any side visiting the Ricoh Arena will treat it as a cup final. Crowds have understandably dwindled at the Ricoh making it a difficult place to play however they have the advantage of a huge away following and if they are successful the home crowds will increase.
County are many peoples outside picks for promotion, with Kevin Nolan at the helm it will be intriguing to see how he does with a full pre-season behind him. They have made a number of signings and will be a stronger force this season than last.
Prediction: Coventry will be eager to get three points but they are facing one of the stronger sides in the division and may take a while to click. Coventry 1-1 Notts County.
