Barnsley v Scunthorpe Preview

This is a fixture involving two of the division’s most unfashionable clubs and the result here could have a huge bearing on the whole relegation story. Barnsley looked to be well out of trouble a few weeks ago, but some poor form means that the Tykes must get a result here unless they want to be brought right back down into the fight. The carrot for Scunthorpe is not simply closing the gap with their opponents, but potentially exiting the relegation zone should results go their way.

Barnsley’s campaign has certainly been one of ups and downs but as we approach this fixture, it looks as though the Tykes are embarking on one of their more negative periods. Mark Robins’ men have now gone six games without victory and while three of those outings have resulted in draws, the form is still not acceptable. It’s meant that the club have gone from being in a comfortable mid-table position down to 16th. They are still nine points clear of the drop zone, and Scunthorpe for that matter, but their supporters must be slightly concerned considering the fact that they have been used to relegation battles throughout their time in the Championship. Of course, victory here really will settle the nerves, and the Tykes would put themselves within touching distance of safety with ten games remaining.

Scunthorpe on the other hand have seemingly recovered from an absolutely dreadful patch of form that saw them go on a losing run that lasted for months. The Iron have managed three wins from their last six, meaning that they are now just one point adrift of safety. What’s more, they also hold a game in hand over many sides around them and following 23rd place Sheffield United’s dismal form, they now find themselves five points in front of them. Of course, there is still a long way to go but with Ian Baraclough now having several players return from the sidelines, the Iron are now looking a much brighter prospect to stay in the division.

On the team news front Barnsley don’t look to have any fresh concerns as they approach this encounter. Several players passed late fitness tests against Derby in their last game, but all of those came through unscathed and Mark Robins could keep the same team. The visitors meanwhile are in the same boat although Ian Baraclough is still without several key players. Paul Reid, Chris Dagnall, Joe Murphy and Cliff Byrne are all still sat on the treatment table and won’t be available for a few weeks.

Barnsley have a fairly decent record at home but the Tykes have been poor recently and we think Scunthorpe could get something from this one. In a result that probably isn’t any good to anyone, we think this one could end goalless.

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