Barnsley
The win over Derby was a big relief as they bounced back to the opening day defeat to Ipswich in perfect fashion. They were also knocked out of the EFL Cup to lower league opposition as well, so the manager got the reaction he was chasing. Confidence is now high as a result, and they’ll need to match and probably improve upon their weekend performance to beat in-form QPR on Wednesday evening. Manager Paul Heckingbottom will stick with an unchanged side heading into this match. They are still without key striker Winnall, but Watkins proved at the weekend that he can do a decent job for now in his place. Williams is back training but is still nowhere near 100% fit. Recent signing D’Almeida, attacking midfielder Moncur, plus forwards Lee and Payne headline the other alternatives available to the manager, however he won’t break apart a winning team at this moment in time. This is a game they certainly believe they can win. Therefore, if they score the first goal, they wouldn’t necessarily sit back. They would take more risks if they did concede, but not straight away, but definitely towards the end of the game if they’re still in the same position.
Queens Park Rangers
QPR continued their 100% start to the Championship season with an excellent 2-0 away victory at Cardiff City on Sunday afternoon. That victory however came at a cost, with Gladwin being forced off very early with an injury. He has been sent off for a scan, but the fact he left the stadium on crutches indicates a spell on the sidelines. Although his diagnosis hasn’t been confirmed, he won’t be risked in this game. Recent signing N’Gbakoto is set to make his full league debut. The remainder of the starting eleven will remain unchanged. Lynch won’t be involved after it was revealed his injury will keep him out of action for a few more weeks. Borysiuk, Mackie and Robinson continue to miss out through also. Perch is expected to be among the subs once again, despite the fact he has been linked with a move away in the last 24 hours. They will be happy to take any kind of victory. Manager prides himself on clean sheets and he’ll expect his side to win if they do achieve that. Will always have a threat on the counter attack. Therefore, if they do score the first goal then it would make life much easier for them tactically.
Verdict & Prediction
It has been a very encouraging start to the season from QPR. They have enjoyed a 100% record so far and the overall team ethic has improved from last season. Manager has done the right things so far, both tactically and in player recruitment. I recommend a small stake on QPR.
Prediction: QPR +0.00 AH
Odds: 1.98 Dafabet
