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 this Championship clash, Plymouth Argyle face Middlesbrough, with the latter aiming to secure their position closer to the playoff spots. The standings currently have Middlesbrough in 10th place, while Plymouth sit in 19th, six points above the relegation zone. Let’s delve into the preview, predictions, team news, and potential lineups for this intriguing encounter.
Plymouth Argyle vs Middlesbrough Betting Tips | ||
---|---|---|
Selection | Odds | Bookie |
Middlesbrough | 19/20 | ![]() |
1-2 | 15/2 | ![]() |
Middlesbrough, under the guidance of Michael Carrick, had recently enjoyed a remarkable six-match winning streak. However, their momentum came to a halt with a disappointing home defeat to Stoke City. This loss prevented them from moving level on points with the sixth-placed team in the Championship. It is essential to contextualize this setback, considering that Boro spent a significant portion of the early season in the relegation zone.
This recent defeat serves as a stark reminder that complacency can be costly. Their determination to bounce back was evident when they had to come from behind to secure a 3-2 victory over Exeter City in the EFL Cup. While this cup competition may not be their top priority, success against League One outfit Port Vale in the quarter-finals could lead them to the semi-finals.
Moreover, Boro face the challenge of playing Leicester City shortly after the Plymouth encounter. This tight schedule increases the pressure on the North-East side to deliver during their second journey to the South-West in just a matter of days.
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Plymouth Argyle have experienced a mixed return to the second tier of English football, securing victory on four occasions. However, they have struggled to maintain a consistent unbeaten streak, with just one victory in their last six Championship fixtures. Their lone triumph in this period came against Sheffield Wednesday, where they achieved a convincing 3-0 victory at Home Park.
Nevertheless, Plymouth’s resilience is apparent in their recent match against Ipswich Town. Despite taking an early lead at Portman Road, they eventually succumbed to a 3-2 scoreline. Manager Steven Schumacher remains focused on extracting the utmost potential from his team. He can take solace in the fact that his side has established a comfortable gap between themselves and the relegation zone.
Plymouth’s home form is a notable aspect to consider. They boast the second-best attacking record on home turf in the Championship. This prowess could pose a significant challenge for Middlesbrough, who are currently on a three-match winning streak away from home.
In the upcoming clash, both teams have some key players unavailable due to injuries. For Plymouth, Ryan Hardie and Mustapha Bundu are expected to miss the game due to hamstring injuries sustained in their previous match against Ipswich. Ben Waine is anticipated to lead the line in their absence, potentially being the only change from their last fixture.
Middlesbrough’s lineup could see several changes, as Michael Carrick made seven alterations for their EFL Cup tie. Notably, Morgan Rogers, Samuel Silvera, and Emmanuel Latte Lath all made impactful contributions, finding the back of the net. They are in contention to feature in the final third. Additionally, Hayden Hackney, who missed the Stoke defeat due to a one-match suspension for accumulating five yellow cards, is expected to replace Dan Barlaser.
Possible Starting Lineups:
Plymouth Argyle: Cooper; Kesler-Hayden, Scarr, Gibson, Miller; Cundle, Randell, Azaz; Whittaker, Hardie, Mumba
Middlesbrough: Dieng; Van den Berg, Fry, McNair, Engel; Howson, Hackney; Jones, Crooks, Greenwood; Latte Lath
Considering Plymouth’s impressive home form and Middlesbrough’s recent setback, it’s likely to be a closely contested encounter. Plymouth may capitalise on their home advantage, but the superior quality of Middlesbrough’s squad should ultimately shine through, potentially in the latter stages.
Prediction: Plymouth 1-2 Middlesbrough
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