Derby County vs. Crewe Alexandra: Preview and betting tips

The first game ended surprisingly 2:2, so we need to play a rematch on Tuesday. The English FA Cup is also on the schedule during the national break. Crewe Alexandra take on Derby County, what to expect from the game and what to bet on?

Derby County are currently struggling in England’s third highest competition. It is seventh in League One, and if it wins a game to spare it will be in the Top 6 guaranteeing a relegation play-off. They’ve won three in a row at the moment.

Crewe are also seeking promotion in their competition, specifically operating in the fourth League Two. From fourth place, they are only one point behind for direct promotion, while they have a six-point lead on positions that do not even guarantee a barrier.

Derby’s key figures

The home side are led by experienced Irish striker James Collins, the former Ireland international has scored ten goals and assisted once. Compatriot Conor Hourihane has been kicking Premier League goals, he is currently on three goals and assists.

Key figures Crewe Alexandra

The visitors rely on Courtney Baker-Richardson, the English striker has scored eight times and assisted once. Mickey Demetriou is unusually productive for a stopper, passing the ball four times in addition to his five hits.

Derby primarily stand on solid defence, they have the second best of League One with 15 goals conceded. In the past four games only three goals received, on the contrary, twice with a clean sheet.

Crewe, on the other hand, are on fire defensively, or at least relative to where they are. It has the third worst defensive record of the League Two top 10 with 25 goals conceded. So, for a team from a higher competition, an ideal opponent to shoot.

Given Derby’s defensive comfort, I think the home side can advance with a clean sheet. Less risky bettors can try to bet on a maximum of three goals in the match (penalties from possible extra time do not count).

Betting tip: Less than 3.5 goals 1.54