Both of these sides were tipped to struggle at the start of the campaign and as it stands, neither is yet safe. However, with Barnsley now on forty one points, it would take a disastrous run of form to see them relegated. Portsmouth meanwhile have a little more to do and with the Fratton Park outfit on a total of thirty five points, they are certainly still looking over their shoulder.
Portsmouth’s season has most definitely been an interesting one, full of ups and downs. After an absolute horror show of a start, Steve Cotterill’s men did have something of a purple patch and there was talk that they could even sneak their way up to the playoffs. However, they’ve slipped back a little now and with the club currently sat in 18th spot, there primary aim is to avoid relegation. Their form of late hasn’t been the best and having lost five of their last eight, they are seemingly a club in decline. On a more positive note, Pompey did manage victory over Doncaster in their last outing and that should at least provide them with some confidence as they approach this game.
Barnsley on the other hand have enjoyed a superb season by their standards and while it appears highly unlikely for the Tykes to challenge for a top six place, their supporters will still be absolutely delighted with the way this season has turned out. The club are currently sat in 14th position and with eleven points separating them from the bottom three, those pre-season predictions of a relegation struggle appear to have dispersed. Of course, a mid-table position brings inconsistency and that is obvious from Barnsley’s last six games which has seen them win two, lose two and draw two. However, having rescued a point in the last kick of the game against Ipswich last weekend, they will have given their confidence a huge boost.
As for team news, Portsmouth are hoping to include David Cotterill if his transfer from Swansea is completed in time. Elsewhere, Jonathon Hogg won’t be featuring due to suspension, but Steve Cotterill will have Aaron Mokoena back in contention after his work permit was renewed. Barnsley meanwhile are tipped to name a new signing of their own after signing Paul McShane on loan from Hull during the week. McShane will replace the injured Stephen Foster, while the Tykes will also be without Hugo Colace who picked up an injury in training and is expected to miss the next month.
As for a prediction, we’re going to go for the draw. Portsmouth may hold the home advantage, but their recent form isn’t the best and we think Barnsley will be good value for a point 2-2.
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