Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Championship match.
On Saturday, resurgent Middlesbrough will host Preston North End at the Riverside Stadium, with the visitors currently positioned below their usual mid-table standing.
Middlesbrough
Middlesbrough players have finally started taking better advantage of their scoring opportunities. While it took them 30 shots (including 7 on target) and 2.90 xG to score two goals against Portsmouth in the third round, their last match against Cardiff City required only 10 shots (including 5 on target) and 0.81 xG for the same two-goal outcome. Due to early-season profligacy (1 goal in 2 matches with 4.41 xG and 38 shots including 8 on target), Middlesbrough are currently averaging 1.25 goals per game.
Preston North End
Preston have struggled on the road this season, conceding six out of their eight goals away from home. Both Swansea City and Oxford United defeated them, scoring three goals apiece. In their most recent match against Oxford United, the team allowed 10 shots (including 5 on target), and it was sufficient to result in a defeat. In seven head-to-head encounters with Middlesbrough, they have consistently conceded goals.
Middlesbrough — Preston North End Prediction
In the last six meetings between these teams, no fewer than three goals were scored. Last season, the clubs exchanged home victories: Preston won 2:1, while Middlesbrough triumphed 4:0. In this home match, Middlesbrough will have a noticeable advantage, making a high-scoring win for the hosts the most likely outcome.
