Most bookmakers predicted Barnsley to struggle in this campaign, while Derby were tipped to have a season of stability. The first six games have gone against those expectations though and Barnsley are flying in 7th place, while Derby are in the relegation zone. The Tykes are coming off the back of a memorable 5-2 victory over local rivals Leeds and with a 100% home record to their name, Derby really will have their work cut out.
Mark Robins could not have been happier with the start Barnsley have made and it probably goes beyond what he expected after six games. The Tykes have collected ten points and it’s just goal difference that is keeping them out of the playoff places. It’s the best start they have made in years and with that, morale amongst supporters is very high. Robins will be most pleased with the amount of goals his side have scored and despite many fans crying out for a new striker during the summer, the Tykes are the division’s second top scorers having bagged twelve already this season. Supporters are also extremely happy with the recent signing of Birmingham striker Garry O’Connor, who played a big part in the club’s victory midweek and managed to get on the score sheet as well. However, his loan deal only lasts a month and the club may only have a chance of extending that should they continue this good form.
Derby supporters on the other hand will not be satisfied with their team. The Rams have just won once this season having started the campaign with a 2-1 victory over Leeds. Since then it’s been defeat after defeat and having recorded four losses and one draw in their last five games, it would be fair to say they are in something of a rut. While Nigel Clough is something of a hero at Pride Park after his playing days, as a manager he hasn’t made an impact and fans will be wondering if it might be time to make a change soon. Clough has managed to bolster his strike force in recent weeks with the signings of Alberto Bueno and Shefki Kuqi, but you can’t help but wonder if there are bigger problems the club needs to sort out.
Mark Robins is not expected to make changes following the victory over Leeds on Tuesday, even though Hugo Colace has now returned to full fitness. It’s a little more eventful for County on the other hand who are poised to give a late fitness test to Gareth Roberts who is struggling with a hamstring strain. Should Roberts not make it, Dean Moxey will continue to deputise.
You won’t find two sets of supporters so different on the morale scale, with Barnsley fans absolutely flying while the Rams support is at something of a low. With the confidence of Tuesday, we think the home side will net a comfortable victory here and put Derby in even more trouble
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