Wayne Rooney’s, Birmingham City, host Ipswich Town this weekend. The head to head between the two clubs have been rather close, with the two most recent matches ending in draws.
Birmingham
Since the appointment of Wayne Rooney, the Blues have lost all three Championship games, which puts the team in 14th place. As displayed over the last few matches, Birmingham have struggled in front of goal and their average goals scored per game stands at 1.14. That said, they are relatively stable at the back, conceding just over one goal per game. The Blues boast the 6th best home record in the league and have only lost once at home all season.
Last time out, Rooney’s side took the trip to Southampton, where they were dominated throughout. The Saints accumulated 71% possession and accumulated 2.29 XG. The tie ended 3-1 to the hosts, with the only positive being that Jay Stansfield scored from the bench.
Ipswich
As each game week passes, it seems that Ipswich’s run of incredible form may continue until the end of the campaign. After 13 Championship games, the Tractor Boys have won 11 and only lost once, which puts them in second place. They are the only side to have scored in every game this season and they have an overall tally of 29 goals, whilst only conceding 15.
Last weekend, Ipswich beat Plymouth 3-2 at home, but the game wasn’t as comfortable as many expected. The hosts went one down within ten minutes but by just after the break, they had completed the comeback. Marcus Harness wrapped up the game with ten to go. Kieran McKenna’s side also suffered a 3-1 defeat against Fulham in the EFL Cup on Wednesday.
Verdict?
The two sides are polar opposites in terms of form and Ipswich should pick up three points once again. If the starting XI doesn’t get the job done, then they have quality on the bench to impact the tie.
The final prediction is Birmingham 1-2 Ipswich.
