Match preview: edge-of-the-table tension at Edgeley Park
Stockport County host Plymouth Argyle at Edgeley Park on 31/01/2026 in a clash that looks far tighter on recent form than the league table suggests. The hosts sit fourth with 49 points from 28 games, a position earned through a string of positive results — five wins in their last six outings highlighted by a 2-1 victory at Blackpool on 27 January. Stockport have built momentum at home, registering 20 goals in those fixtures and keeping eight clean sheets across the campaign. Referee Samuel Allison will take charge as the North West crowd of 10,841 expect their side to press for three points and close ground in the promotion race.
Form and recent meetings
Plymouth arrive off the back of a 1-1 draw with Mansfield and a run that reads well on paper — several wins and only one defeat in their last ten — yet their league position (14th) and 37 points reflect inconsistency across the season. The Pilgrims have been capable of fireworks on their day, evidenced by a 4-3 win at Bristol Rovers in mid-January, but they’ve also shipped 40 goals so far, a vulnerability Stockport will look to exploit. The teams met earlier in the season with Plymouth edging a 4-2 win, so memories of that high-scoring encounter will be fresh. Individual standouts from the most recent fixtures include Oliver Norwood for Stockport and Ronan Curtis for Plymouth, both named best players in their respective last matches.
Key statistics that matter
Stockport’s attacking numbers are marginally superior: 40 goals scored versus Plymouth’s 35, and fewer goals conceded (34 to 40). Home form is critical — Stockport have an over/under profile that points to competitive games, with 15 over 2.5 matches this season and BTTS showing up in roughly 53% of their home matches. Plymouth’s away BTTS percentage sits lower, around 41.7%, suggesting the visitors are less likely to both score and concede when on the road. Shot volumes between the sides are similar, but Stockport edge dangerous attacking actions and a higher shots-on-target tally, which supports a home-first narrative.
Prediction and betting tip
Bookmakers have made Stockport the favourite at 1.84 (implied probability ~54.35%), and the numbers back that stance: stronger league position, home advantage, and a recent winning rhythm. Plymouth are dangerous and capable of goals, but their defensive record and the travel to Edgeley Park create exploitable openings.
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Betting suggestion: Back Stockport County to win (1X2) at 1.84 — the home win represents the best value here given form, table position and home attacking edge. Consider a conservative stake and manage exposure in line with your bankroll.
