A home game I'm missing. Through choice too, which is a first. I'm due to go on holiday on Sunday, and I've put myself on self isolation so not to jeopardise that. When I miss home games, we usually lose. I think the last home game I missed that we won, was Coventry at home in 2016. First thing to note is, Birmingham made 11 changes for their midweek Cup game, so don't expect an advantage on that front. Historically, Birmingham have a half decent record at Oakwell. They've won 6, drawn 2 and lost 3 at Oakwell since the turn of the century. Away from home, Birmingham have won 4 of their last 5 competitive matches, including both games this season. Prior to that, they'd won just 2 in 12 (including a defeat at Oakwell). They were the 12th best away team last season, which is a great contrast to being the 23rd best home side. Our defeat to Luton was our first at home in 6 games. Our performance at QPR was much more encouraging though. I fancy us to win this one, despite Birmingham's good start to the season. I'll go 2-1 with Woodrow and Frieser on the scoresheet.
An entertaining bad tempered game with 3 sent off from each side. Barnsley fight back from a four goal deficit to salvage a 12-12 draw.
That’s exactly how I see it. Going for 1-1 as well. Birmingham from a set piece our goal well worked from open play Oduor tapping in at the back post
The danger man this time is Tahith Chong on loan to the Blues from Manchester United. Looks a class apart and, a bit like, Callum O'Hare, seems to be able to run the game from several positions in midfield. We will need a plan to manage him in the game (where's Joe Bell when you need him?) and I hope that doesn't mean eight different players kicking him and getting booked. We really should cope with the aerial threat from Jutkiewics and Hogan, but Chong is different class. I am not sure where they play him, as he seems to turn up all over the midfield and break beyond the strikers. If we manage him well, I will go for a 1-0 in a fairly bruising game. If not, I will go for 1-1. PS Watch out for Marc Roberts' long throws to the strikers and attacking defenders.
Massively bullied out of this one. Helik, Sibbick & Ker-ching to keep it respectable. 2-0 win for the visitors.
I think it'll be a tight game and the head says it'll be a draw but I'm hoping we'll sneak a win (2-1) with Palmer kicking - sorry I mean playing - Chong out the game. Woodrow and Helic with the goals