Crawley Town vs Notts County Match Preview - Jan 17, 2026

High-Stakes Clash: Crawley Town vs. Notts County

As the League Two season hits its stride, Crawley Town is fighting for survival at the bottom of the table while Notts County aims to solidify their playoff aspirations. This January 17 showdown at The Broadfield Stadium is more than just a match; it's a lifeline for Crawley and a potential stepping stone for Notts County. With Crawley languishing in 21st place with just 19 points from 25 games, every point counts. In contrast, Notts County sits comfortably in 8th place, hunting for promotion and riding the waves of fluctuating form.

Predicted Lineups:

• Crawley Town: GK: Harvey Davies, DEF: Josh Flint, Dion Conroy, Charlie Barker, MID: Reece Brown, Jay Williams, Harry Forster, Gavan Holohan, FWD: Harry McKirdy, Ryan Loft.
• Notts County: GK: Kelle Roos, DEF: Jacob Bedeau, Matthew Platt, Lewis Macari, MID: Oliver Norburn, Tom Iorpenda, Nick Tsaroulla, Tyrese Hall; FWD: Matthew Dennis, Alassana Jatta.

Crawley's recent form has been utterly dismal-just four wins all season-and they're coming off back-to-back defeats including a resounding 0-3 loss to Cheltenham. A striking statistic reveals that Crawley has consistently controlled possession (averaging about 57% across their last matches), yet they struggle to translate that into goals or meaningful chances. While they've boasted higher pass counts (like 402 total passes against Cheltenham), that doesn't hide their vulnerability in the final third and defensive frailty.

Meanwhile, Notts County enters this fixture reeling from disappointing results too; a narrow loss against Accrington and draws against teams lower in the standings have stalled their momentum. Their style of play often revolves around retaining possession while creating goal-scoring opportunities through quick transitions and incisive passing. Despite having slightly less overall possession recently-about 52% against Accrington-they've shown more cutting edge in front of goal. They typically rank higher in expected goals metrics thanks to players like Matthew Dennis who netted six times this season.

Looking at head-to-head encounters provides no solace for Crawley either; just five months ago they were thrashed 4-0 by Notts County-a result that should loom large in their minds as they prepare to defend against an aggressive attack spearheaded by Jatta and Dennis.

The tactical setup here is critical; both teams have employed variations of three-at-the-back formations recently. For Crawley's coach Chris Powell-who desperately needs a turnaround-the challenge will be breaking through what promises to be a sturdy Notts defense while ensuring his side isn't exposed on counter-attacks where players like Iorpenda can thrive.

Defensively speaking for Crawley Town-it's glaringly obvious that individual errors are frequent among their defenders like Charlie Barker who averages only around 46% success in tackles over recent outings-not ideal when tasked with stifling one of League Two's more dynamic attacks! On the flip side for Notts County's backline led by Jacob Bedeau-who boasts an impressive pass accuracy rate hovering near 58%-the key will be avoiding lapses against desperate opponents who could catch them on set-pieces or quick breaks.

Key statistical battles will hinge on finishing efficiency as well. Notts has shown flashes of brilliance but also moments of frustration when it comes to conversion rates. With strikers like Dennis being closely marked by the likes of Flint or Conroy-each aiming to make amends after poor displays-they'll need precision if they're to exploit any defensive gaps created during transition phases.

Every player matters now more than ever: look out for Harry McKirdy-the standout performer amidst Crawley's turmoil with four goals this season-as he attempts to lead from the front alongside newly formed partnerships up top. His effectiveness is paramount given Crawley's struggles finding consistency across formations deployed this year (from formations relying heavily on wing play utilizing width).

For Notts County's part-it'll be about balance: can Jatta maintain composure when faced with intense pressing? Is Dennis capable enough at navigating tight spaces amid physical challenges presented by Crawley's center-backs?

When it all boils down: While you might expect superiority based on league positions alone-which favors Notts-a comprehensive analysis showcases deeper undercurrents determining outcomes beyond just statistics highlighted earlier (e.g., fouls drawn).

In conclusion: Expect a gritty battle but one with clear implications for both sides-Crawley must assert dominance early if they want hope reborn whilst containing stronger threats emanating from aerial duels initiated by taller forwards opposed-a true test then lies ahead! Will it end as another exasperation at home turf-or could we witness an inspiring comeback pushing forth renewed belief amongst fans witnessing nothing short?

Ultimately though-I'm leaning toward Notts County edging out an important victory here given prior matchups and observable patterns playing towards them possessing sharper teeth upfront! Keep your eyes peeled because while it might not be pretty-it could very well define seasons ahead!