Portsmouth travel to Bristol Rovers on Boxing Day, where they will look to pull further away at the top of League One. Pompey have won three of the last four against the hosts, yet earlier this season, they failed to overcome the Pirates, as the tie ended 1-1.
Bristol Rovers
Bristol Rovers have been very inconsistent this season, as highlighted by the fact they’ve won seven, drawn seven, and lost seven, which has put them in 12th place. The Pirates are quite strong at the back, conceding just 1.33 goals per game on average, but they excel in attack, scoring in 19 of their 21 matches.
Last time out, Bristol Rovers travelled to Blackpool, where they suffered a 3-1 defeat. The score was 1-1 at halftime, but quality ultimately prevailed.
Portsmouth
Pompey are on fire this season, and it’s difficult to see them not earning promotion to the Championship already. They’re in first place and have only lost one of their 22 matches. Portsmouth’s success is built on their solid defence, that’s conceded the least in the league (17).
They’re also strong in attack, scoring 1.73 goals per game on average, but they were held 1-1 by Fleetwood. Portsmouth dominated the ball but were slightly vulnerable on the break.
Verdict?
Bristol Rovers have only lost once at home this season in nine games, but they’ve only won three. Portsmouth are unbeaten on the road, winning 70% of their away matches.
The final prediction is Bristol Rovers 1-2 Portsmouth.
