This Saturday, Burton Albion vs Port Vale are set to lock horns head to head in what promises to be a crucial battle for League One survival at the Pirelli Stadium. As both teams fight to secure vital points, let's take a closer look at the predictions, team news, and possible lineups ahead of this pivotal clash.
Match Preview
Burton Albion finds themselves in a precarious position, languishing in 19th place in the League One table. The Brewers have been enduring a tough spell of form, managing just one point from their last six games. Their recent defeat against Exeter City marked their third consecutive loss, highlighting their struggles to find momentum.
Manager Martin Paterson's side will be eager to turn their fortunes around as they return to the Pirelli Stadium for a head to head match , where they aim to break a four-game losing streak on home turf. Additionally, Burton will be seeking to secure their first victory over Port Vale at home since October 2015, having suffered defeat in their last three head-to-head encounters at their own ground.
On the other hand, Port Vale finds themselves in an equally challenging situation, currently positioned 23rd in the league standings. The Valiants are yet to secure a win in the calendar year, with draws and defeats dominating their recent record. Despite glimpses of promise, their inability to capitalize on opportunities has left them six points adrift from safety.
Despite their struggles, Port Vale has experienced success at the Pirelli Stadium this season, clinching a 2-0 away win in November's FA Cup replay. Manager Darren Moore's side will be aiming to replicate that performance as they seek to climb out of the relegation zone.
Team News
Burton Albion could be without Jasper Moon, Sam Hughes, Mason Bennett, and Aristote Nsiala due to injury concerns. However, Manchester United loanee Joe Hugill is expected to lead the line after featuring prominently in previous outings.
Port Vale may miss the services of Dan Gore, Uche Ikpeazu, and Tom Sang due to injury issues, while Bayley Dipepa is unavailable as he represents the England Under-17 squad.
Possible Lineups
Burton Albion:
Crocombe; Caprice, Hamer, Brayford, Sweeney, Bola; Oshilaja, Harper, Powell, Helm; Hugill
Port Vale:
Ripley; Smith, Debrah, Jones; Plant, Garrity, Ojo, Mighten; Chislett; Massey, Wilson
Prediction
In what promises to be a tightly contested affair, both teams will be desperate for victory to bolster their survival hopes. However, with both sides struggling to secure wins, a draw seems likely. We predict a 1-1 stalemate at the Pirelli Stadium as Burton Albion and Port Vale share the spoils.
For further analysis, including data-driven insights and scoreline predictions, fans can access additional information via the provided link.
As the stakes remain high in the battle for League One survival, football enthusiasts can anticipate a tense and gripping encounter between Burton Albion and Port Vale this Saturday.
Head to head football stats website