Preston Victory in the Lancashire Derby?
Preston Victory in the Lancashire Derby?
Blackburn Rovers and Preston North End face off in a thrilling Lancashire derby on Friday night, and the visitors seem well-positioned to take all three points. The form curve is heading in opposite directions for these two teams, and with a solid performance in recent weeks, Preston victory could be a valuable betting option.
After an impressive streak of six consecutive wins, Blackburn has suffered a severe downturn in form. The team has lost six of their last nine matches, including back-to-back defeats. The demanding fixture schedule appears to be taking its toll, and numerous injury issues are not helping the situation. Key players such as Scott Wharton, Hayden Carter, Harry Pickering, Sondre Tronstad, Todd Cantwell, Arnor Sigurdsson, and Yuki Ohashi are either ruled out or doubtful, significantly limiting manager John Eustace's options.
In their last match against Bristol City, Rovers suffered a 2-1 defeat, and with a lack of squad depth, this could be another challenging evening for the home side.
Preston had a slow start to the season, particularly after changing their manager after just one game. With only two wins in their first eight matches, their fortunes have drastically improved since Boxing Day. Only two Championship teams have picked up more points since then, and Preston approaches this clash full of confidence.
Unbeaten in six of their last seven matches, with two consecutive wins, North End appears to be in prime position to capitalize on Blackburn’s struggles. Last weekend, Emil Riis secured a crucial 2-1 victory over Middlesbrough, and Paul Heckingbottom's men will be eager to build on that performance.
North End has historically performed well against Blackburn, remaining unbeaten in their last five encounters. Additionally, they have won two of the last three meetings at Ewood Park, further strengthening the case for a Preston victory.
Betting Tip: Visitor's to Win – Draw No Bet (4 Units) at 1.75 with Betsson
Considering form, injury concerns, and previous results between these sides, backing the away team victory with the Draw No Bet option seems a solid bet. This provides extra security in case of a draw, while the odds of 1.75 at Betsson offer great value.
Blackburn has lost their last three matches
North End is unbeaten in their last five encounters with Blackburn
Preston has won their last two Championship games
Blackburn is struggling with multiple key injuries
Blackburn’s injury crisis and poor form make this a tough challenge for the hosts. North End, with their strong run of results, should have a great chance of securing all three points. Preston victory with Draw No Bet at 1.75 with Betsson is our recommended bet.
Kick-off: 20:00, Friday, January 31, 2025Venue: Ewood Park
Betting Tip: Preston to Win – Draw No Bet (4 Units) at 1.75 with Betsson.
Blackburn – Preston
Oxford – Bristol City
Plymouth – West Brom
Watford – Norwich
Derby – Sheffield United
Hull – Stoke
Leeds – Cardiff
Millwall – QPR
Portsmouth – Burnley
Sheffield Wed – Luton
Swansea – Coventry
Middlesbrough – Sunderland