Bristol City v Preston Preview

Posted on | April 3, 2009 | No Comments

This is yet another of the division’s big games as both of these sides head into this fixture with the play offs in mind. Out of the two, Preston are in the better position as the Lilywhites sit just one place outside the top six as two points keep them adrift. Bristol City on the other hand will have a bit of work to do, with recent form meaning they’ve dropped and now sit five points away from the play offs.

Bristol City’s season really has been turbulent and Gary Johnson’s men have been up and down the table at ridiculous rates. Not so long ago, it looked as though the Ashton Gate outfit would be repeating last season’s play off finish, but recent form has put a question mark over that and they have it all to do if they are to finish in the top six. They’ve won just once in their last six and having played quite a few bottom half sides, that must play on Johnson’s mind quite some bit. Still, they have six games remaining and while it now looks a tall order, they do at least have an outside chance of claiming one of those positions.

Preston may only be three points better off, but at this stage of the season such a margin is extravagant. The Lilywhites are only just outside the play off positions in 7th place, although just like City, recent form hasn’t exactly helped them. A month or so ago it looked like Preston would be one of the certainties for the top places, although some inconsistent results have meant that it’ll take a good finish for them to reach there. Defeats against the likes of Southampton, Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace all came unexpectedly and considering the low positions of those sides – that certainly won’t please Alan Irvine. However, at the start of the season no Preston fan would have believed this position, so even if they fail to make the play offs this campaign can be considered as nothing but successful.

Bristol City are coming into this game with a few problems as Gavin Williams, Marvin Elliott and Stern John are all doubts for the Robins. However, with Jamie McCombe cleared fit to play, it’s not all bad news for Gary Johnson. As for the visitors, Alan Irvine just has one concern with Callum Davidson doubtful with a hamstring problem. Irvine does have the luxury of selecting Lee Williamson and Paul McKenna, with Williamson poised for a debut while the latter has recovered from injury.

As for a prediction, we’re going to go for the draw. Both of these sides know that they desperately need points for their play off pushes and with that; we think they’ll cancel each other out – 2-2.

Related posts:

1. Bristol City v Preston Preview
2. Preston v Bristol City Preview
3. Bristol City v Coventry Preview
4. Bristol City v Nottingham Forest Preview
5. Ipswich v Bristol City Preview

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