The 'half-time' play-off calm for Chesterfield before the storm - talking points

It’s “advantage Notts” after their 1-0 win at the SMH but as both sides have been at pains to stress, it’s only half time.

Here’s a few brief talking points around the tie …

Stick or twist

Notts County might be in a little bit of a quandary how to approach this one.

Do they play it like a typical side protecting a one-goal lead or go for it from the off and try to put the tie to bed?

The temptation to try and get the first goal will be massive, knowing Chesterfield would need to score three times to turn the tie around.

Notts came out quickly on Sunday, despite conceding that early penalty missed by Lee Bonis, and only in the second half were they content to really sit in.

While the onus will be more on the Spireites to take the attacking initiative this time, the ideal time to throw total caution to the wind won’t be early doors.

First leg

This reporter came in for a bit of stick on social media for calling the first leg exciting.

There might not have been so many issues with that description if the result had gone the other way.

From my angle it was a very watchable and interesting game played in a cracking atmosphere.

Both teams knew they could hurt the other. There was a penalty miss, ample action in and around both boxes and the spectacle of two evenly matched sides going at it.

What’s not to like? (apart from the result)

No Dobra

A big character in the team, Armando Dobra will obviously be a big miss for the second leg after damaging his shoulder.

Dobra was off the field in the second half when Chesterfield found some rhythm going forward without exactly stock piling clear chances.

They had no less than 63 per cent possession across the piece but there was some sloppiness in there that needs cutting out for the return.

Last time at Meadow Lane

The fact Chesterfield have gone to Meadow Lane this year and last and won both times really does help. It’s not a place they fear.

Of course they had a leg-up the last time from Oliver Norburn’s early red card after throwing Armando Dobra’s boot away in a fit of pique.

County will be every bit of stubborn as they were that day before Liam Mandeville's second-half winner settled it.

They’re League Two’s joint second highest scorers but, interestingly, the goals tap hasn’t been flowing as freely in the last month.

Never a dull moment

According to club statistician Phil Tooley, Chesterfield are the first team in the national football pyramid to have been in a play-off or better six seasons straight.

The club’s followers get their money’s worth year after year, even if the end goal isn’t always achieved.

The Spireites’ total of 79 points might have taken them up automatically last season but not in any of the previous three when 80 or more were required.

As Paul Cook told the DT last week, "I always think in leagues that to get above 80 points is gold”.

If it doesn’t work out right on Friday night then that’s the bar set for next season.

Final word

In the eight play-offs up to now, only one had been won in 90 minutes by the home team. Chesterfield still have a chance. Agree?