At the start of the season nobody could have imagined these two sides sat so close to each other in the table, with Middlesbrough tipped as clear promotion favorites while Barnsley were seen as a side who would struggle. However, as we approach this fixture just two places separate the two clubs, with Boro sat in 18th place while the Tykes are positioned in 16th.
Middlesbrough’s season may have been something of a disaster, yet the Riverside outfit at least seem to be ending the campaign in positive style. Tony Mowbray’s men actually approach this game with some of the best form in the division, having not lost in their last six and put together a run that has seen them collect twelve points from a possible eighteen. That has seemingly dispelled their relegation fears and while they haven’t yet reached the magic fifty point barrier, with five games left it does seem something of a foregone conclusion. Of course, Mowbray’s aim now will be to analyze his squad and prepare for a much more successful next campaign. However, with rumors of the club struggling financially, it remains to be seen how much power Mowbary will have in the transfer market.
Barnsley on the other hand appear to be safe from relegation now, with the Tykes thirteen points clear of the bottom three having accumulated fifty points. With five games remaining, that is certainly a very good achievement for the club who were tipped as serious candidates for the drop at the start of the campaign. However, it would be fair to say that most of the work was done in the opening stages of the season as the club approach this encounter with some disastrous form behind them. Having lost three out of their last four and only won two out of twelve, Mark Robins has come in for some recent criticism. Despite this, supporters were actually very complimentary about their side following the recent 1-0 defeat to QPR, with many praising the Tykes’ attacking style.
As for team news, Middlesbrough have been hit by several injuries recently and Tony Mowbray will approach this encounter without the likes of Seb Hines and Merouane Zemmama who are struggling with jaw and hamstring problems respectively. What’s more, influential striker Marvin Emnes will sit this one out as well as he serves a suspension. Barnsley meanwhile don’t have much to report although Hugo Colace is hopeful of a starting place after shaking off a knee problem. However, following the Tykes’ performance in their last outing, it would not be a surprise if Mark Robins keeps his side unchanged.
In terms of a prediction, we think Middlesbrough will prove to be too strong for their opponents here. Boro have put together some very good form over the past few weeks and with Barnsley struggling somewhat, our prediction will be a comfortable 2-0 victory for the home outfit.
Related PostsBarnsley v Middlesbrough PreviewPlymouth v Barnsley PreviewMiddlesbrough v QPR PreviewPortsmouth v Barnsley PreviewMiddlesbrough v Derby PreviewTags: Add a CommentName
Mail (will not be published)
Website
No comments:
Post a Comment