Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Championship match.
On Sunday, one of the key fixtures of the round takes place at The Hawthorns, featuring West Bromwich Albion, who led the league early in the season, against the current leaders, Sheffield United.
West Bromwich Albion
West Bromwich Albion lost their grip on top spot as their scoring dried up, with hopes pinned largely on Josh Maja as the primary striker. Since the sixth round, they've managed only one victory over Hull City (2:1), a team many have beaten. Their competitors have tolerated West Bromwich's frequent draws (9 in the last 10 matches) long enough, ultimately ousting them from the top six. Notably, only one of their draws exceeded the 1:1 scoreline — against Norwich City (2:2).
Sheffield United
Sheffield United finally claimed the top spot in the league table with a victory in the 18th round. They lead Burnley by two points, even considering the deduction of two points for past financial violations. Sheffield United are back to their clean sheet ways, securing three wins and one draw in their last four rounds. All their victories have been shutouts: against Sheffield Wednesday in the derby (1:0), Oxford United (3:0), and an invaluable 1:0 against Sunderland.
West Bromwich Albion vs Sheffield United Prediction
Considering West Bromwich Albion's frequent failures to score and Sheffield United's stingy defence, the most likely result appears to be either 1:1 or 2:0 in either direction.
