Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Championship match.
If Preston North End lose this match, which is quite likely, their winless streak will extend into double digits. Sheffield Wednesday, on the other hand, have won their last two outings on the road. Playing at home could, in theory, be even easier for them. Will they extend their winning streak?
Sheffield Wednesday
Their mini-streak almost didn't happen: Jamal Lowe secured a victory (2:1) against Derby County in the 94th minute. In the second half, Sheffield Wednesday didn't have a notable advantage. Both sides created an equal number of chances (nine shots each, with one on target compared to two), and in terms of quality, the hosts were even superior (1.49-0.92 in xG), yet it was Sheffield Wednesday who emerged 2:0 winners. Two weeks ago, they couldn’t beat Cardiff City (1:1) at Hillsborough. Now they face one of Cardiff's neighbours at the lower end of the table.
Preston North End
Paul Heckingbottom's forced appointment after the first round had a temporary effect, but they haven't seen success since the 10th round when they defeated Coventry City (1:0) at home. They have only 3 wins in 18 rounds—fewer (2) are only the bottom two clubs, Queens Park Rangers and Portsmouth. Preston’s problem lies with their low scoring: in the last six games, they haven't scored more than a goal. Their expected goals (xG) is slightly unmet (short by 2.45), but the number of shots is meagre (10.4—fourth from the bottom).
Sheffield Wednesday vs Preston North End Prediction
Sheffield Wednesday aren't high scorers either (1.2 goals per game), and the total under 2.5 has been seen in four of their last five matches. The history of encounters between these sides also suggests low scores: each side has two 1:0 victories.
