Millwall v Middlesbrough Preview

Posted on | February 21, 2012 | No Comments

As the season ticks down, both of these sides are starting to desperately require points for different reasons. For Millwall, Kenny Jackett’s side need to start improving to stave off the threat of relegation. Middlesbrough on the other hand need results for a much more positive reason, as Boro aim to close in on the top six places again and make a spear for promotion.

While a lot of the football world was feeling sorry for Portsmouth following their move into administration, there is no doubt that Millwall will have been amongst the minority. With the Lions battling to save their Championship status, the fact that Pompey incurred a ten point penalty has done wonders for their survival chances and they moved up a place courtesy of that move. Still, with Kenny Jackett’s side sat precariously in 20th, they are by no means safe and just three points keep them above the drop zone at the time of writing. Even though the Lions have managed to draw their last two games, in general their form is poor. They have won just one of their last eight in the league, while they have lost three of their last four at the New Den.

Middlesbrough know exactly what it’s like to experience poor form though, with Tony Mowbray’s men embarking on a disastrous run over recent months which has seen their promotion charge come to a complete halt. While at one point Boro were closing in on the automatic promotion slots, they now approach this game sat outside the top six in 8th position. Admittedly, only one point separates them from the playoff positions, yet their supporters know how competitive the division is this year and must be having concerns. Over recent weeks the Riverside outfit have become more difficult to beat, with the club approaching this game having collected five points from their last three Championship fixtures. However, there is no doubt that draws simply have to be converted into victories if the club are to have any chance of promotion this term.

As for team news, Millwall are experiencing several concerns ahead of the clash. The likes of Steve Mildenhall, Therry Racon and Tamika Mkandawire are all still on the treatment table, although Jimmy Abdou should feature having successfully recovered from an ankle injury. It’s a similar story for the visitors on the other hand, with the likes of Danny Coyne and Scott McDonald poised to miss out through injury while suspension will prevent Kevin Thomson from featuring. On a more positive note, Barry Robson is back in the reckoning having completed his ban.

As for a prediction, we think this could be a draw. Both of these sides have experienced indifferent form in recent times and with confidence low at both clubs, our tip will be a 1-1 score line.

Related posts:

1. Middlesbrough v Millwall Preview
2. Nottingham Forest v Millwall Preview
3. Swansea v Millwall Preview
4. Championship Preview – Millwall
5. Millwall v QPR Preview

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