The Rovers’ match against Middlesbrough marks the debut of caretaker Mark Venus, following Mowbrays departure earlier this week. The72 were early in tweeting the news on Monday evening, no-doubt breaking the hearts of some loyal Boro fans. However, having taken only 24pts from the past 100 available, and having only decisively won one game in 10 matches, it seemed inevitable.
Middlesbrough sit 16th in the league table, a single place above Doncaster Rovers who will be looking to make it third win from 5. The form guide (http://the72.co.uk/championship-form-guide/) struggles to tell much of a story away from the dismal form both teams are in.
Betting – Match Result
The match result here isn’t an easy one. Both teams are coming here off the back of 5-goal away defeats – Middlesbrough conceeding 4, to Doncaster’s 3. In the last 5 away games, Doncaster have a formline of 1:2:2 (W:D:L) against Middlesbrough’s home formline of 4 draws and a win. I don’t normally bet on the draw, but here I feel that Doncaster have the ability to score good goals away, whilst Middlesbrough fail to convert an advantage into a win, and often concede to even the score.
It is, however, worth noting that this season, when Doncaster Rovers have fallen behind, they have not one been able to turn the game around to even score a point. Therefore, if Middlesbrough score first, it will be a hard game for Doncaster.
Despite this, I feel the draw is a possibility. At 3/1, it almost represents value here, as Middlesbrough look false-favorites at an odds-on price.
Betting – Both teams to score
It if difficult. I imagine Doncaster would take an early lead, with Middlesbrough coming back strongly. However, if Middlesbrough reach the net first, it’s going to be a struggle to get back into the game. Let’s hope Doncaster score first, and then the BTTS looks strong at 4/5
Betting – Goalscorers
It’s hard to see which of the Rovers are most likely to score – but Middlesbrough should get some goals playing at home, scoring in all 5 of the latest home matches. Carayol has scored a fair few at home in recent matches, and at 5/1 anytime may be a good price, whilst Kei Kamara is 11/2 to score first, having scored 3 already this season – 1 of which first.
Not a great match to get on, but certainly one to watch. You can watch tomorrow at 7:45 on Sky Sports 1.
