Stockport vs. Cambridge United: Prediction, Preview & Betting Tips

These are two teams amidst very different trajectories with very different goals this season. Cambridge struggle to find the back of the net while Stockport scored 96 league goals last season. Stockport County averaged 2.1 goals per game last season and have won three out of their last five competitive games. Cambridge United, last season, averaged 0.8 goals per game and are winless in their last five competitive games

Louie Barry will be tasked to replace the injured MIchael Mellon for this game. Louie Barry scored nine in 17 starts last season, averaging 0.8 shots on target per game.

The club from Greater Manchester lost only three games on home soil last season, so they'll feel like this is an excellent game to ease them into life in League One. It's hard to look past a Stockport win here, the question is largely by how many.

Stockport 3-0 Cambridge.

The eagerly awaited start of the League One season is upon us, and this Saturday, Stockport County will face Cambridge United in an opening match that promises excitement and intrigue.

• Date: 10/08/2024
• Kick-off time: 17:30
• Location: Edgeley Park, Stockport

Stockport County's journey to League One is a testament to their impressive form and ambition. Having finished top of League Two last season, Stockport enter the new season with optimism and momentum. Their promotion campaign was characterised by consistent performances, tactical astuteness, and a clear sense of purpose under the management of Dave Challinor.

Stockport County's successful promotion has naturally led to increased expectations among their fan base. There is a palpable sense of quiet confidence that the club can continue its upward trajectory and possibly even challenge for another promotion. While automatic promotion may be a challenging target, Stockport are certainly viewed as a team capable of pushing for a playoff spot. The team's attractive style of play and strategic recruitment have fuelled these aspirations.

The summer transfer window has been a busy period for Stockport, as they have made several significant signings to bolster their squad. One of the standout acquisitions is Lewis Bate, a highly-rated midfielder from Leeds United, who is expected to bring creativity and dynamism to the centre of the park. Alongside him, Lewis Fiorini has joined from Manchester City, further strengthening Stockport’s midfield options with his technical prowess.

The return of winger Louie Barry on loan from Aston Villa is another exciting development for Stockport. Barry's pace and skill on the flanks will provide an added dimension to their attack. Meanwhile, the signing of striker Michael Mellon from Burnley adds depth and a new attacking option to their forward line.

Under Dave Challinor, Stockport have embraced an attractive brand of football that has earned them admiration from neutrals. Their style is characterised by quick passing, intelligent movement, and a focus on possession-based play. Challinor’s tactical approach emphasises fluid attacking movements and solid defensive organisation, making Stockport a well-rounded and difficult team to beat.

In stark contrast to Stockport County’s promotion high, Cambridge United endured a challenging campaign last season, finishing 18th in League One. The U's struggled to find consistent form and spent much of the season battling to stay clear of the relegation zone. As they prepare for the new season, Cambridge faces the daunting task of avoiding another relegation scrap.

Cambridge’s struggles last season were evident in their goal-scoring record. With just 39 goals in 46 games, they were one of the lowest-scoring teams in League One. The departure of their top scorer, Gassan Ahadme, to Charlton Athletic only adds to the concern, as his goals were crucial in their fight for survival.

The club’s attempts to address their goal-scoring woes have seen the arrivals of strikers Ryan Loft and Shane Lavery from Port Vale and Blackpool, respectively. However, neither player boasts an impressive goal record at this level, and the absence of Ahadme's influence will likely be felt. The pressure will be on these new signings to step up and provide the firepower needed to steer Cambridge clear of relegation danger.

Cambridge's summer transfer activity has been somewhat underwhelming, with questions raised about the quality and depth of their squad. While they have made some additions, the lack of marquee signings suggests a challenging season ahead. Strengthening the squad with proven talent at this level remains a priority, but financial constraints and limited resources pose significant obstacles.

Cambridge are managed by Garry Monk, a seasoned professional who has experience managing in the higher echelons of English football. Monk's task will be to instil belief and resilience in his squad, emphasising the importance of teamwork and tactical discipline. His managerial acumen will be crucial in navigating the challenges of League One and ensuring Cambridge can avoid the pitfalls of relegation.

The opening weekend clash between Stockport County and Cambridge United promises to be an intriguing affair, with both teams having much to prove. Stockport will be eager to announce their arrival in League One with a positive result, while Cambridge will be determined to demonstrate that they can improve on last season’s struggles.

This game will be aired live to all subscribed U.K. viewers on Sky Sports +.

Stockport Team News:

Winger Louie Barry will be available for selection after recently completing his loan move from Aston Villa and should come straight into the starting XI.

Midfielder Lewis Bate could also make his first competitive start for the club.

Predicted lineup: Addai; Hughes, Horsfall, Pye; Knoyle, Bate, Mingi, Powell, Fevrier; Mellon, Barry.

Cambridge Team News:

The U's will likely hand a start to new signing Gary Gardner, the experienced midfielder who has arrived from Birmingham City.

Up top, teenager Brandon Njoku could start alongside new recruit Shayne Lavery.

Predicted lineup: Stevens; Okedina, Watts, Gibbons; Bennett, Cousins, Gardner, Brophy; Kachunga; Lavery, Njoku.

Stockport ended last season excellently, winning four of their last five games. Stockport registered wins over Colchester United (2-1), Morecambe (2-0), Notts County (5-2) and Accrington Stanley (4-2), before losing 2-1 to Wrexham on the final day of the campaign.

In preseason Stockport have been a mixed bag, claiming wins over Chester (3-2) and Stoke City (1-0), while losing to Oldham Athletic (1-0), Blackburn Rovers (0-1) and Carlisle United (2-1).

The back end of last season's League One campaign was miserable for Cambridge, who failed to win any of their last five games. The U's only managed draws against Charlton (1-1), Wycombe Wanderers (1-1) and Port Vale (0-0), while they were beaten 1-0 by both Bristol Rovers and Derby County.

Cambridge's preseason exploits have also produced mixed results, with the side producing wins over Braintree Town (3-0), Ebbsfleet United (3-1) and West Bromwich Albion (1-0) while also losing 2-0 to Marítimo and, concerningly, 6-0 to Colchester United.

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