Port Vale v Notts County: Prediction, Tips and Odds

Automatic promotion from League Two looks a realistic prospect for second-placed Notts County, who are seven points behind long-term leaders Walsall having played one game less.

Stuart Maynard’s side have been churning out consistent performances and results and head to Staffordshire in a confident frame of mind after Saturday’s 2-0 victory at home to struggling Morecambe.

Sixth-placed Port Vale are only four points worse off and on an unbeaten run of six league matches.

However, Darren Moore’s side will be looking to bounce back from a slightly disappointing weekend result after drawing 3-3 away to mid-table Swindon Town.

Port Vale v Notts County betting tips and predictions

Notts County to win - 13/8

County have made impressive strides in recent years and can enhance their chances of a second promotion in three seasons by defeating Vale at Vale Park.

Last season was a learning experience for County, who started the season strongly but finished in 14th place with the worst defensive record (89 goals conceded) in the division.

This term they are a better-balanced side and have usually been able to cope on occasions when key players are unavailable.

The Magpies were without classy attacker David McGoldrick for last weekend’s fixture at home to Morecambe, but got on with the job and ran out comfortable 2-0 winners.

And they have been ultra-reliable on their travels, taking maximum points from each of their last four road trips.

County have scored 27 away goals (the highest in the division) and their offensive prowess could give them the edge over the Valiants, who have won only six of 13 home league fixtures.

Vale have expectations of securing a top three finish, but they have had a choppy few months with just four league wins in 15 matches since the end of October.

Moore’s side showed resilience at the weekend by twice coming from behind to draw 3-3 at Swindon, but the result came at a cost with striker Jayden Stockley forced off with a back injury.

Stockley has been an influential player, contributing seven goals and five assists. His absence would be a major blow and make life considerably easier for County, who look a solid 13/8 wager to register a 16th league win of the season.

Alassana Jatta to score any time - 9/4

County have assembled a squad with considerable strength in depth, but they are undoubtedly reliant on centre-forward Alassana Jatta, who tops their scoring charts with 14 league goals.

Jatta provides a pacy, powerful presence at the tip of the Magpies’ attack and was the subject of considerable interest during the winter transfer window.

Keeping the Gambia international was a considerable statement of intent from County that they intend to last the course in the promotion race.

Jatta repaid their faith at the weekend with a goal against the Shrimps and he looks a worthwhile 9/4 wager to add to his tally against Vale.

George Abbott to be carded - 15/4

A contest between promotion rivals should be fiercely contested and there will be no holding back from County’s Tottenham loanee midfielder George Abbott, who enjoys the physical side of the game.

He has been booked in each of his last two games and looks overpriced for another caution.

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Port Vale v Notts County odds

Port Vale - 13/8
Draw - 11/5
Notts County - 13/8

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This article was written by a partner sports writer via Spotlight Sports Group. All odds displayed on this page were correct at the time of writing and are subject to withdrawal or change at any time.