Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Championship match.
Sheffield Wednesday have climbed to their highest position this season, ninth, apart from the first round when they faced an easier opponent. However, extending this rise, which has lasted for six rounds, will be incredibly challenging against Blackburn Rovers, who have won four matches in a row.
Sheffield Wednesday
The last match against Preston North End was Sheffield Wednesday's fifth out of six games in which opponents scored no more than two goals. In four instances, this was enough for at least a draw. It can be said that they were both lucky and unlucky. Lucky, because the opponent was considerably more threatening (1.46–3.34 in xG). On the downside, Josh Windass missed a penalty. Instead, Michael Smith equalised, matching the midfielder in goals (5).
Blackburn Rovers
Blackburn Rovers have now scored just one goal in each of their last three matches, while keeping a clean sheet. More accurately, Aynsley Pears has achieved this, saving 13 shots during this period. Middlesbrough were wasteful (2 on target out of 10), he was outstanding against Leeds United, and simply solid against Hull City. Interestingly, Hull City helped the visitors by scoring an own goal, and Blackburn Rovers only troubled the opposing keeper once.
Sheffield Wednesday vs Blackburn Rovers Prediction
Blackburn Rovers rely heavily on their goalkeeper’s reliability, while Sheffield Wednesday have issues converting chances: they have scored 5.19 fewer actual goals than their xG suggests. Therefore, it wouldn’t be surprising if this match ends with a total under.
