Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Championship match.
After a disappointing defeat, the league newcomers face Blackburn Rovers in another tough away match in Lancashire.
Blackburn Rovers
The Riverside team has been scoring at least two goals per match, including the League Cup. Their best scorer and last season's top goalscorer Sammie Szmodics left for Ipswich Town before the season. However, they have managed to distribute the scoring duties among a large group of players. Currently, their top scorer is Yuki Ohashi with two goals. Blackburn excels at converting chances: with only 1.47 xG, they have scored six goals. Oxford United should prepare for a tough test.
Oxford United
The Oxford United’s players have shown early in the season that they can score at the Championship level, scoring two goals in each games against Norwich and Coventry. While they managed to win the first game, they couldn’t even draw in the second. Oxford United scored twice but conceded in the 96th minute due to a lapse in concentration. It was a tough lesson but an invaluable one for the newcomer. Coventry squandered numerous chances (27 shots, 12 on target), whereas their upcoming opponents are known for their efficiency. Blackburn Rovers needed just 18 shots, with 10 on target, to score their six goals. Almost any mistake by the visitors will be punished.
Blackburn Rovers - Oxford United Prediction
The history between these clubs is quite brief. They have met twice in League One during the 2017/18 season (2:1, 4:2) and in the FA Cup in 2016 (3:0). Blackburn have always won. We’ll choose a double chance on the hosts coupled with a bet on total over 2.5. Both teams have shown high scoring capabilities, so we expect goals in their clash.
