Championship Midweek Preview

Burnley v Doncaster Rovers

3751009584Burnley can count the wins needed for automatic promotion on their two hands. With a ten point gap between their nearest rivals Derby, they need to take 18 points from their final 9 games. Put it simply 6 wins. In their last 9 games the Clarets have won 7 and drawn 2 including big wins over Forest, Derby and ending a 35 year record of not beating rivals Blackburn. Even the recent injuries to Danny Ings have failed to halt their charge, with Sam Vokes remaining a constant threat. Alongside him Ashley Barnes scored his first goal at the weekend since his transfer from Brighton in January. Ings looks set to miss this games as well and with Barnes confidence restored he is likely to be on the score sheet again. He is this game’s key man.

Doncaster have shown real character to respond to their 5-0 defeat at Bournemouth. 10 points from 12 since has restored confidence in the squad and relative safety for the time being, climbing to 19th in the table. It is no coincidence that the return of Billy Sharp from suspension saw an improvement in their form. Sharp, when fit, is a useful asset to any side in the Championship and with the added motivation of previously spending time at the Keepmoat, this loan move could prove lucrative for both club and player. Despite spending most of the season at the wrong end of the table, the Doncaster defence has been difficult to break down, keeping 12 clean sheets this season.

Expect a tight game early on, but both teams will be playing for the win. With both sides impressive defensive records the first goal could be crucial.

Score prediction: 2-0 Burnley win

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