Bristol City v Charlton Preview

Posted on | February 2, 2009 | No Comments

Expectations for these two sides at the start of the season was that that both would be challenging for the play offs. As it turns out that’s completely incorrect as Bristol City occupy a safe mid-table position while Charlton have had a truly miserable season and sit rock bottom.

Bristol City may be sat in 11^th position, but their supporters are full of confidence and firmly believe that their side has what it takes to make a late push for the top six. As it stands, seven points separate them from the play offs yet having collected thirteen points out of a possible fifteen in recent weeks, things are looking up for the Ashton Gate outfit. In their last game they faced Barnsley and despite coming under some early pressure, they stuck at it and eventually saw the Tykes off 2-0. After this Charlton game, the Robins face another side threatened with relegation in Norwich so the next few weeks could see Gary Johnson’s men pick up a few points and near closer to the golden six.

As for Charlton, they really are in the doldrums. There was great optimism when the Addicks beat fierce rivals Crystal Palace a couple of weeks ago, which was incredibly their first victory since the beginning of October. However, their next match turned out to be another flop as despite playing out-of-form Burnley, Phil Parkinson’s men couldn’t capitalize and were eventually beaten by a 90^th minute Stephen Thompson goal. It’s certainly not making pleasant reading for Charlton fans at the moment and the club are rock bottom of the table, nine points from safety. It’s still early enough for things to turn around, but they really will need something of a miracle in the second half of the season if they are to retain their Championship status.

In terms of team news, Gary Johnson could be without Ivan Sproule and Nicky Maynard who are both suffering from dead legs. Sproule had to be substituted in the previous game against Barnsley while Maynard missed that altogether after pulling out late. As well as that, Jamie McAllister will serve his one game suspension after reaching the yellow cards limit. As for Charlton, Phil Parkinson will be without Kelly Youga who misses out through suspension, while Mark Hudson is doubtful with an ankle injury. However, Parkinson has Grant Basey and veteran Matty Holland waiting in the wings and the duo can act as direct replacements.

As for a prediction, it just has to be a Robins win. Gary Johnson’s men are in fantastic form at the moment whereas Charlton are in a real mess. It won’t be a whitewash, but it’ll be a comfortable 2-0 win for City.

Related posts:

1. Charlton v Bristol City Preview
2. Charlton Vs Manchester City — Preview.
3. Barnsley v Charlton Preview
4. Reading v Charlton Preview
5. Wolves v Charlton Preview

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