Swansea v Bristol City Preview
Posted on | April 17, 2009 | No Comments
A few weeks ago this fixture was tipped as one that could shape the whole play off picture, but now just one of these sides are in the hunt for a top six place. Bristol City’s push went off the rails a few weeks ago after some poor form, although Swansea are now back in the hunt and sit just four points away with three games remaining.
Swansea have been one of the success stories of this season and Roberto Martinez’s men have raised more than their fair share of eyebrows. After romping to the League One title last season, there was some expectation at the Liberty Stadium, but nobody could have quite imagined such a successful season. They’ve impressed everyone with their style of football and if they can build on Monday’s 3-1 victory over Barnsley, they may even achieve a play off place for their efforts. With just three games to go it’s certainly going to be a tall order, although with four points separating them from Burnley it’s definitely possible. They’ve now won their last two and having not lost in four, they’ve put together some good recent form and that should hold them in good stead if they were to reach the top six.
As for Bristol City, their season looks all but over. The Robins may just be a couple of places lower than Saturday’s opponents, but they’re nine points away from the play offs now and that means that they won’t be repeating last season’s finish. On that note, you could say it’s been a slightly disappointing campaign, but considering the fact that most teams falter in their second seasons in a division after promotion, City now look to have established themselves and will hope for a better 09/10. Despite having nothing to play for, Gary Johnson will still want to finish the season on a high and rectify the statistic that shows their last win coming all the way back on the 10th of March.
On the team news front, the home side just have the one concern as Angel Rangel is doubtful with an Achilles problem. Other than that the Swans are at full strength and Roberto Martinez will only be without long-term absentees Ferrie Bodde and Marcos Painter. There’s a little more to report for City as Gary Johnson welcomes back Liam Fontaine and Jamie McAllister from injury and suspension respectively. Adriano Basso looks set to play after an early fitness scare, although Bradley Orr will miss the game due to a ban.
Only one of these sides has anything to play for and with that, we’re going to predict a win for that side. Swansea have looked good in recent weeks and with the incentive of the play offs on their mind, we’ll go for a 3-1 victory for Roberto Martinez’s men.
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