Our football writer previews the English Football League Championship round 31 action kicking off on Friday, 9 February 2018.
The title race looks to be Wolverhampton’s to clinch, with no one consistently matching the Wolves’ strong form. Meanwhile, the battle to avoid relegation remains fierce, alongside a tight contest for the play-off spots. Let’s break down what’s in store for this thrilling round 31.
Friday 9 February
Millwall 31/20
Draw 43/20
Cardiff 17/10
Millwall come off a solid 2-0 away win at Reading and boast seven unbeaten games at home, albeit with a few draws. Cardiff, however, are flying high after a stunning 4-1 victory over Leeds United at Elland Road. With only four goals across their last seven meetings, backing the Totals – Under 2.5 Goals market at 13/20 looks like a smart move.
Saturday 10 February
Barnsley 27/20
Draw 43/20
Sheffield Wednesday 2/1
Barnsley have struggled recently, losing three on the trot and teetering just above relegation. Sheffield Wednesday have also endured a tough run with just one win in the last 14 games. Low scoring is expected again here; nine of the last 10 meetings finished under 2.5 goals. Follow this trend at 7/10.
Sheffield United 15/20
Draw 24/10
Leeds 36/10
Sheffield United have stumbled with back-to-back losses, conceding four without reply, while Leeds haven’t won in six matches, losing four. The Blades will be motivated to use their home advantage following their 2-1 victory in the reverse fixture. Back Sheffield United for the win.
Derby 21/20
Draw 9/4
Norwich 51/20
Derby remain unbeaten in their last 11 games. Norwich have been impressive as well, with four wins in five, including consecutive away victories. Most recent matchups suggest both teams will score. Take Both Teams to Score – Yes at 9/10.
Brentford 1/1
Draw 24/10
Preston 49/20
Brentford have been off-colour with two losses in a row, while Preston have won their last two matches. Their recent encounters have been goal fests, averaging 4.6 goals in the last five games. Betting on Over 2.5 Goals market at 8/10 is suggested.
Ipswich 17/20
Draw 47/20
Burton Albion 32/10
After a strong 2-0 win at Sunderland, Ipswich are in good shape. Burton Albion, sitting bottom with four consecutive losses, are struggling. Ipswich have won the last three meetings and are tipped to continue their dominance.
Nottingham 13/10
Draw 22/10
Hull 2/1
Nottingham Forest have faltered with three losses in four, while Hull are winless in nine and have lost their last five away. Given both sides’ struggles, a draw looks likely.
Bristol City 13/20
Draw 26/10
Sunderland 17/4
Bristol City are targeting a play-off spot and will be eager to claim three points against Sunderland, who have been poor with just five wins from 30 games. Bristol took the previous fixture 2-1 and are expected to do so again.
Middlesbrough 11/20
Draw 26/10
Reading 47/10
Both sides have been inconsistent and goal-shy, with five of the last six meetings finishing under 2.5 goals. The Under 2.5 Goals market at 13/20 is the pick here.
Bolton 28/10
Draw 51/20
Fulham 9/10
Bolton have been strong at home lately, despite relegation worries, while Fulham are flying high with five wins in a row. The reverse fixture was a 1-1 draw, so backing Bolton on the Win/Draw Double Chance at 8/10 is wise.
Wolves 4/10
Draw 33/10
QPR 13/2
Wolves have won their last two, including a 3-0 dismantling of Sheffield United. QPR have struggled away with only two wins in 15 games. Recent matches have seen both teams score, so Both Teams to Score at 11/10 is a good call.
Sunday 11 February
Aston Villa 7/10
Draw 24/10
Birmingham 17/4
Aston Villa are on fire with six wins in a row, while Birmingham bring momentum from back-to-back wins. This derby tends to be tight, so backing the Totals – Under 2.5 Goals at 11/20 is sensible.
TREBLE TIPPED @ 4/1
Barnsley vs Sheffield Wed Under 2.5 Goals 7/10
Ipswich Win 17/20
Bristol City Win 13/20
