Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Championship match.
Blackburn Rovers
In hindsight, Blackburn Rovers might have fared better had they retained their previous management instead of parting ways after a single poor result. Then again, perhaps things had deteriorated behind the scenes — we can only speculate. What is certain is that the protracted search for a replacement and the eventual appointment of a new manager have failed to reverse the squad’s fortunes. In contrast, Derby County are pushing ahead and escaping what looked like a dead-end. Meanwhile, Blackburn Rovers are in a downward spiral. Over the course of six matchweeks, the team has slipped from 5th to 11th in the standings, losing five of those matches, including a 1:2 defeat to Derby County.
Middlesbrough
Middlesbrough also hit a rough patch not long ago, suffering five consecutive defeats in February and dropping to 11th place. But with the current management staying in charge, the team has since recovered and now sit just three points behind West Bromwich Albion in sixth, separated only by goal difference. Their current form could serve as a blueprint for Blackburn Rovers — whether the latter can emulate it is another question. Notably, this will be the third meeting between these two sides this season. In addition to their usual league fixture, they also faced off in the third round of the FA Cup, where Blackburn Rovers secured a narrow 1:0 away win in the northeast.
Blackburn Rovers vs Middlesbrough Prediction
Blackburn Rovers also came out on top in the reverse league fixture by the same 1:0 margin — though that was under previous management. Backing them now, given their recent decline, would be highly speculative. That said, Middlesbrough’s back-to-back losses to this opponent also raise concerns. As a result, we’re opting for a more conservative approach and backing Total Under on goals.
