Countdown To Kick-Off: late betting and team news for Saturday's 3pm EFL games

Stoke v Derby

Stoke have lost their opening two Sky Bet Championship games and Nathan Jones will be desperate to see a reaction from his side when they welcome Derby.

A 2-1 defeat at home to QPR was followed by a 3-1 reverse at Charlton but their latest effort at the Valley was a significant step up.

Although suffering defeat, the Potters won the shot count 12-5 and perhaps were deserving of better.

Stoke are creating chances and it was no coincidence they performed to a higher level with Lee Gregory leading the line and Thomas Ince given the license to roam from the out wide.

Those two start again at the bet365 Stadium and they can help the Potters claim maximum points.

Recommendation
Stoke
2pts 13-10 Coral, Betfred

Carlisle v Mansfield

Mansfield were two goals down against Newport and Morecambe before rallying on each occasion to pinch a point and punters should expect another strong finish from the Stags on their trip to Carlisle.

A mixture of their never-say-die character and the wealth of attacking options at John Dempster’s disposal has ensured Mansfield remain unbeaten after two matches despite not being at their best.

The Stags have scored second-half goals in 2-2 draws with Newport and Morecambe and could finish with a flourish at Brunton Park, where they notched twice after the 70-minute mark last term.

Andy Cook is missing due to a knock picked up in midweek but Nicky Maynard and Danny Rose, who are already off the mark for the campaign, start.

The bench is also packed with firepower. CJ Hamilton and Otis Khan are likely to be introduced late on and that should concern Carlisle, who have shipped four goals in two league games.

Recommendation
Over 0.5 Mansfield second half goals
3pts 7-10 Betway

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