Mayo relishing County clash

Last updated : 01 February 2007 By Richard Brown

With around 2,500 City fans expected to travel, the reliable Imps man admits he's anticipating an altogether different affair from the 1-1 draw with the Magpies on the opening day of the season.

That day, Mayo was introduced as a second-half substitute to quash the threat of County winger David Pipe. Since then, the defender has played a starring role for the Imps, with City's defence looking particularly strong of late.

Still, though, Mayo expects a far more relaxed atmosphere than the return fixture at Sincil Bank way back in August.

“The opening day was quite a touchy affair, and Notts looked a good team but we've come on since then,” said the highly-rated Imps man, speaking exclusively to LCM earlier today.

“We've won a lot of games, and won a lot of them in style – but, like Saturday, we've also had to grind out a result, and, obviously, it wasn't as pretty.

“On our day, though, there's not many teams who can handles us passing-wise, but we've still got a long way to go.”

Since the opening day, Mayo believes City have forged a unique team spirit, and cites this for the reason behind their success this term: “We've got a good set of lads here, and the squad's looking really strong now with the new signings, and you've really got to be on top of your game to keep your place.”

The left-back started his career across the Trent with County's near-neighbours Nottingham Forest, prior to signing for City back in 1999.

The former Reds trainee insists that his return to Nottingham will pass over him come the weekend.

“Obviously I served my apprenticeship at Forest, but that won't really have too big a bearing on Saturday's game, for me,” Mayo continued.

“Notts are one of them teams just in and around the play-offs, and are going to need to win to keep in touch with the play-off places.

“I'm sure it'll be a good, local derby game with a big crowd.”



For a comprehensive preview of Saturday's trip to Meadow Lane, click here.