Newport County AFC vs Carlisle United. Sky Bet League Two.
Rodney ParadeAttendance3,176.
Friday 8 December 2017 09:44, UK
Scot Bennett could return for Newport's home game against Carlisle in Sky Bet League Two.
The former Exeter defender missed last week's FA Cup win against Cambridge with a hip injury. Exiles boss Michael Flynn must decide whether Shawn McCoulsky or Padraig Amond partners Frank Nouble in attack. Calaum Jahraldo-Martin and Marlon Jackson are both ruled out with hamstring injuries.
Carlisle captain Danny Grainger is hoping to start, despite injuring a rib at the weekend. The left-back was forced off in the second half of the FA Cup clash at Gillingham but is likely to be fit.
Manager Keith Curle must also decide whether to stick with three central defenders, as fielded in the 1-1 draw at Priesffield, or be bolder. Hallam Hope and Shaun Miller stand by to support Richie Bennett up front, while creative midfielder Jamie Devitt awaits his first start in a month.
The Exiles have won five of their last six League Two matches against Carlisle (L1), however that defeat did come the last time the sides met in April last season (2-1) - prior to this run, Newport had gone five Football League matches against Carlisle without a victory (D3 L2).
The Cumbrians have lost each of their last three visits to Rodney Parade, more than they had in their previous five league visits prior to this run.
Carlisle have won four of their last six away league matches (D1 L1), keeping four clean sheets in the process.
No side has scored more headed goals than Newport County in League Two (11).
