Luton – WBA: Two Teams in Trouble

Championship football is back under the Friday night lights, and this time it's Luton and West Bromwich kicking off the weekend. Both teams are struggling lately, with Hatters fans perhaps feeling the weight of it the most. Luton became something of a fan favorite when they tried their luck in the Premier League last season, and hopes were high for a promotion push this season. While they can still achieve that, immediate changes are needed.

Only three of the first twelve matches have ended in victory, putting them already eleven points behind leaders Sunderland. They’re also eight points behind WBA, who currently hold a playoff spot. West Brom's problems aren't as severe, but only scoring one goal in their last five games is cause for concern.

Luton Manager Under Heavy Pressure

Early goals from Carlton Morris and Elijah Adebayo gave Luton a 2-0 lead in the relegation clash away at Coventry, but Rob Edwards' side couldn’t hold on. The loss was deserved, marking the seventh defeat in twelve games, leaving last season's Premier League club in the relegation zone. Manager Rob Edwards, once a hero at Kenilworth Road, now finds himself under heavy pressure.

Edwards took responsibility for the defeat against Coventry, a sentiment not entirely shared by Carlton Morris.
“It was a frustrating end to the game, but we as players have to take responsibility. We won’t lie down and give up. The injuries have made things tough at the start, but we’ll fight back. Hopefully as soon as Friday night,” Morris told the English press.

Luton heads into Friday's game with hopes of rebounding, but Edwards is still dealing with a raft of players sidelined by injuries or suspensions. Defensive issues are particularly concerning, as both Tom Holmes and Alfie Doughty picked up cards against Cardiff that leave them suspended tonight. Mads Andersen, Teden Mengi, Reece Burke, Amari'i Bell, and Reuell Walters remain injured as well.

Frustrated Albion Boss

WBA went unbeaten in their first six league games, topping the table with 16 points out of a possible 18. They’ve now recorded four consecutive draws and haven’t won in their last six. The Baggies are also experiencing a major goal drought, with only one goal scored in the last five games. Last Saturday’s home match against Cardiff ended in a goalless draw, with Grady Diangana and top scorer Josh Maja squandering major chances.

“I understand the fans’ frustration when we don’t capitalize on opportunities, but it’s equally important to note how solid we are defensively. The goals will come,” manager Carlos Corberan told the local press after the scoreless match against a Cardiff team that’s been making big strides following a poor start to the season.

Betting Tips

Luton – West Bromwich
Kenilworth Road, Friday 9 PM

West Brom has logged four consecutive draws, and a fifth seems likely tonight. Luton is struggling with injuries and likely won’t take too many risks, despite their position in the table. The last time these teams met in the Championship, both matches were close (0-0 and 3-2), and we expect a similar outcome tonight. We’re betting on a draw, offering odds of more than three times the stake.