Thursday 10 September 2009

League One Weekend Preview, Game 7

Saturday is a pivotal day for Phil Parkinson in terms of his relationship with Charlton fans. If his buoyant side can maintain their 100% start to the season his redemption in the eyes of the Addick faithful will take a step nearer completion as will the ongoing exorcism of the last three seasons. There is no higher price that can be put on beating Southampton on Saturday and sending Alan Pardew away with an emphatic message.

Before that, we get to see if Leeds can take advantage of their Friday evening match at Roots Hall and leapfrog us in the table. The announcement on the League One Manager of the Month is due on Saturday and I suspect a result for Leeds tomorrow might sway the decision, even if we are now into September!

Whilst we pontificate over which of our clubs' manager deserves the award, we are being linked again with Leeds' out-of-favour Tresor Kandol. He did ok for us last year but on the basis that those around him did no better and yet appear to be thriving this season, he's probably worth another shot. His height could be a significant addition and give us other forward options as the need arises. Here's how I see the other League One encounters this weekend...

Southend United v Leeds United
A Barnard hat-trick gave the Shrimpers a good win last week over the O's at Roots Hall. Leeds will come looking for the three points but I will stick my neck out here and favour the home side. They might have to share the spoils but I'm going for them to edge it. Addicks still on top!
Prediction; 3-2

Bristol Rovers v Oldham Athletic
The Pirates have slid into third position and saw off an injury-ravaged Millwall last week. They have the chance to consolidate their early-season start and I expect them to be too busy for Oldham.
Prediction; 3-1

Carlislie United v Brighton and Hove Albion
Carlisle have slipped up twice at home already but their away form has seen them into 9th spot. Brighton have found it hard going so far and might not fancy the long trek from the South Coast. Carlisle too strong.
Prediction; 2-0

Charlton Athletic v Southampton
I could focus on the Saints new signings or their experienced backbone or the fact that we are due a slip. Instead I am going to remind myself that we are just where we deserve to be and this should be a game our team are rubbing their hands for. Lloyd Sam should feel he can do anything after his wonder goal last week and his League one Player of the Month award this week.
Prediction; 3-1

Gillingham v Millwall
Keeny Jackett is struggling to get a side out at the moment and Millwall's funds means he will need to use loan signings to ease the pain. The Gills have a decent record against the Lions and I suspect this game will come at just the right time for them.
Prediction; 2-0

Hartlepool v Wycombe Wanderers
The Pools stuck three passed Oldham at Boundary Park last week and will be itching to record another win. Wycombe went down at Brighton last week and this won't be any easier.
Prediction; 1-0

Huddersfield v Brentford
This would be the match I'd like to be at if we weren't playing on Saturday. The Bees were well organised and well-motivated last week and will be hoping to go one better here. Town though are riding high and have been impressive at home.
Prediction; 2-1

Leyton Orient v Exeter City
Both of these sides have only managed one win so far this season but Orient must be confident of registering their second tomorrow. A long and fruitless trip in prospect for the Grecians.
Prediction; 1-0

Swindon Town v Colchester United
After their impressive start, Colchester have been spluttering recently and find themselves a point behind Swindon going into this one. They have won, drawn and lost on the road so far and my money's on another draw here inspired by Super Kev.
Prediction; 1-1

Tranmere Rovers v Walsall
Tranmere are struggling badly and shipping goals. I can't imagine it's a happy ship with John Barnes and Jason McAteer shouting the odds. This is a great opportunity for Walsall to be expansive and win away for the second time so far.
Prediction; 1-2

Yeovil Town v Stockport
Basement scrap in prospect here and I'll go with Yeovil to recover from their home defeat to locals Swindon last week.
Prediction; 2-1

If we can make it seventh heaven on Saturday, Norwich promises to be an awayday to remember.

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