Horse Racing analyst Will Smith has had a good look at all this weekend's ante-post markets, and provides a 7/1 EW selection in the Grade 2 novices' chase at Newbury on Friday.
In the heart of the Championship, at the New York Stadium, Rotherham United and Coventry City find themselves at a critical juncture in their campaigns. Both sides are eager to reignite their Championship campaigns, but their paths have been marked by distinct challenges and opportunities.
Rotherham vs Coventry Betting Tips | ||
---|---|---|
Selection | Odds | Bookie |
Coventry | 19/20 | ![]() |
1-2 | 15/2 | ![]() |
Rotherham United’s Championship form: L – L – D – L – L – D
In the eyes of many, Rotherham were slated as a pre-season favourite for relegation, and for good reason. However, manager Matt Taylor had hoped for a stronger showing from his side at this stage of the season. The recent 1-1 draw against Southampton, a formidable opponent, could have been seen as a positive sign. Yet, their position in 21st place, six points adrift of safety, tells a different story.
The Millers were further hindered by the late postponement of their fixture against Ipswich Town, a casualty of a waterlogged pitch due to Storm Babet. As a result, Rotherham find themselves without a competitive fixture for 18 days when they take to the pitch on Wednesday night. The benefits of rest have been somewhat negated by the loss of match sharpness. With only five points garnered from their home games, Rotherham are in dire need of a catalyst to salvage their season.
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Coventry City’s Championship form: L – D – W – W – D – L
From Coventry’s perspective, their campaign had shown some promise before the recent trip to face Bristol City. However, a 1-0 defeat to the Robins has cast a shadow on their recent performances. Coventry have now won just three of their 12 fixtures in the second tier during the 2023-24 season. Despite being on a four-game undefeated streak leading up to the visit to Ashton Gate, they have recorded draws in over half of their matches.
Fortunately, the poor form of the bottom three teams has kept Coventry seven points clear of the relegation zone. Nevertheless, their priority is to avoid falling further behind the playoff spots, where they currently sit just four points adrift. The upcoming fixture is one that they must approach with the expectation of securing a win.
Having had over two weeks to recover from calf issues, Fred Onyedinma is eager to make an impact in the Rotherham XI. Jordan Hugill, who scored the equaliser at St Mary’s, is likely to return to the team, with Sam Nombe potentially moving to the substitutes’ bench. Dexter Lembikisa, who represented Jamaica over the international break, is expected to feature at right-back.
On the Coventry side, Haji Wright may return in place of Ellis Simms, who drew a blank against Bristol City. Yasin Ayari is poised to resume his role in a creative-midfield position, while Jamie Allen could be back in contention after a minor calf issue.
Rotherham United possible starting lineup: Johansson; Lembikisa, Peltier, Hall, Bramall; Onyedinma, Tiehi, Cafu, Rathbone, Green; Hugill
Coventry City possible starting lineup: Wilson; Thomas, McFadzean, Binks; Van Ewijk, Eccles, Sheaf, Dasilva; Ayari; Godden, Wright
For both Rotherham and Coventry, this fixture holds immense significance as they strive to realise their ambitions for the season. Despite Rotherham’s potential for an energetic display following their draw with Southampton, we anticipate that Coventry’s superior quality will shine through in the closing stages.
Prediction: Rotherham 1-2 Coventry
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