Blackburn Rovers host Sheffield United in the Championship on Saturday.
Blackburn Rovers welcome Sheffield United to Ewood Park in what should be an engrossing battle. Rovers head into the clash sat in 4th place and three points inside the play-offs, though they are nine points off the Blades.
Jon Dahl Tomasson’s side tasted victory last time out in their FA Cup fifth round tie away against Premier League side Leicester City, winning 2-1 and extending their winning streak to four consecutive games.
Paul Heckingbottom’s side sit 2nd in the table, seven points clear of 3rd place with a game in hand. Sheffield United got back to winning ways last time out with a 1-0 win against Watford last weekend.
That victory put an end to back-to-back defeats and saw them regain that advantage in the automatic promotion spots ahead of what promises to be an entertaining clash after their FA Cup triumph over Tottenham Hotspur.
Here, a handful of our writers give their predictions for the game…
Cameron Winstanley
“This clash could really shape up these two side’s seasons, with a win for either side putting them in real control ahead of the chasing pack behind them.
“Blackburn have been on a roll of late and will be confident of extending the good form that sees them unbeaten at Ewood Park since the New Year, although they’re currently nine points behind the visitors a win could spark an automatic promotion bid.
“The Blades’ previous back-to-back defeats have opened the door for them to be caught but given the cushion that victory last time out gave them, I expect them not to lose that gap again and leave Ewood Park with something.”
Score prediction: Blackburn Rovers 1-1 Sheffield United
James Ray
“This one feels like it really could go either way. Blackburn should be hopeful of claiming a big win given their current vein of form and Sheffield United have been shaky in recent weeks but their midweek win over Spurs should really get them back on track.
“It feels like big game in the promotion fight and the outcome could really impact how the rest of the season goes for both sides.
“I’m leaning towards a goal-filled draw though. Both should be right up for this and if either are slightly off it, they will be made to pay. I’m going for an entertaining draw.”
Score prediction: Blackburn Rovers 2-2 Sheffield United
