Chesterfield practice penalties in build-up to play-off semi-final
Chesterfield have been practising penalties in case tomorrow’s League Two play-off semi-final against Notts County goes to a shoot-out.
The Spireites lost to County on spot kicks in the National League play-off final in 2023 and striker Lee Bonis planted one against the post early in last weekend’s first leg.
Irrespective of those set-backs, penalty drills have been part of training this week because they could be on the cards should the tie go the distance.
Winger Dilan Markanday said all the first team squad had been having a go.
"We are all practicing. We are all making sure we are able to take one and to finish it,” he told the Derbyshire Times.
“Everyone has to be prepared and then, if it comes to penalties on the day, it’s about who feels confident.”
Markanday was involved in the League One play-offs with Leyton Orient last year but didn’t feature when they bumped out Stockport County on pens in the semi-finals.
And even though the Spurs-schooled man has never taken one in open play in senior football, he is not afraid to have a go.
"I have always put my hand up for it,” he said. "One of my coaches at Tottenham said it’s not about the outcome, it’s about the personality to step up and take one, which is important.
"I always try to show a bit of character and confidence and whatever happens, happens.”
Penalties will only be required in Nottingham if the aggregate scores are level at the end of 30 minutes of extra time.
Manager Paul Cook said: “You have to prepare for every eventuality – how the game starts, how the game could go, how the game could finish for both teams, what subs you can have to effect that good and bad.
"If it goes to penalties, what does that look like? It will be the same for us and them. Every avenue will be covered by both sets of coaches and managers.”
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