Weekend Championship Preview, Game 33

With Derby's comprehensive win over Blackpool last night following Barnsley's result at Hillsborough on Tuesday, it now looks increasingly like any three from six at the bottom; Southampton, Norwich, Watford, Forest, Plymouth and our goodselves. Forest burnt a game in hand last night when they went down 2-1 at Ipswich. As we face a critical game at Oakwell on Saturday, here's what the rest are doing.

Barnsley v Charlton Athletic

Whilst we are a number of matches away from mathematical relegation, I see this game as pivotal. We simply have to win if we are to get the momentum we need to put the run of results we have to have if there is any hope of survival. If we get beaten (or draw) we will likely lose   further ground on some of our rivals but more importantly, we are now running out of games.

This is definately one I believe our players can win but Barnsley halted their losing run on Tuesday and they will know that three points at home here will give them sight of Championship security. I said a few weeks ago that relegation in March looked on the cards and I am afraid that's still the most likely prognosis.

Prediction; 2-0

Blackpool v Watford

My money would be on Watford avoiding the drop but this looks like a very hard game for them at a Blackpool side spanked at Derby in the week. 

Prediction; 2-0

Coventry City v Birmingham City

Birmingham are back in the automatic position but Reading can regain that position if they win their game in hand. Pressure on then and Birmingham face proud Coventry neighbours who will be able to play pressure-free football. I suspect there could be an upset here but Coventry might have to settle for a point.

Prediction; 1-1

Norwich City v Burnley

Tough times for Norwich who have dropped onto the trap-door. Not a good time to play Burnley either who are now focused solely on the play-offs. 

Prediction; 1-2

Nottingham Forest v Derby County

A quick replay of their recent 2-2 draw at Pride Park. Earnshaw and Tyson scored the goals then and I fancy Forest to go one better here to send Cloughie home empty handed.

Prediction; 2-1

Plymouth Argyle v Sheffield United

Another fixture that goes for us - Plymouth are in turmoil and this is a must-win for the Blades. 

Prediction; 0-1 

QPR v Ipswich Town

Rangers are drinking in the Last Chance saloon here and face an Ipswich side also on 47 points and with play-off ambitions. A hard-fought draw would probably suit neither side.

Prediction; 0-0

Reading v Bristol City

Reading can move to 13 home wins here and possibly leap-frog Birmingham City in the process. They have kept faith with their squad and manager and have quietly gone about their business. I hope they get promoted again even if their ultimate destiny looks like playing outside the Premier League in future without more financial backing.

Prediction; 3-0

Sheffield Wednesday v Crystal Palace

Wednesday could kill off any lingering Palace hopes of the play-offs. Trouble is they look like they've gone on holiday already. I'll stick my neck out here and go for two Palace away wins in four days.

Prediction; 1-2

Southampton v Preston NE

The Grim Reaper stalks the Saints as Rupert Lowe edges closer to an administration and relegation double. Preston need the points and I think they'll get them.

Prediction; 0-2

Swansea City v Doncaster Rovers

Doncaster are on an impressive winning streak but they look safe now and face a Swansea side hungry for the points to maintain their play-off hopes. 

Prediction; 3-0

Wolverhampton Wanderers v Cardiff City

This is the Sunday Sky match and it promises to be a cracker. Wolves aren't home yet but they are counting the games down. Wanderers too strong here.

Prediction; 3-1