Bristol City host Watford in a mid-table clash in the Championship on Friday evening.
The Robins come into the game looking to halt a run of two consecutive defeats. Prior to those losses, they struggled to a 2-1 victory away at bottom-of-the-table Burnley, who are themselves still awaiting their first win of the campaign.
Michael Skubala’s side suffered double heartbreak on Tuesday evening as they lost 1-0 to Skubala’s former employers, Lincoln City.
To make matters worse, influential centre-back Rob Dickie was also stretchered off with a potentially serious knee injury, adding to City’s concerns ahead of Friday’s clash.
Watford will also be looking to put their recent results behind them, having lost three of their last four fixtures.
Their only success came against an out-of-form Preston North End, while defeats to West Brom, Stoke City and Swansea City have left the visitors languishing in 17th place in the second tier.
With both sides struggling for consistency, Friday’s meeting provides an opportunity to turn their fortunes around.
Firepower up front
Bristol City possess plenty of firepower going forward, with Lorent Tolaj, Dom Ballard and Scott Twine all capable of creating and finishing opportunities.
However, defensively is where City have struggled, having conceded 12 goals in the Championship so far this season.
Watford, meanwhile, are yet to win away from home and will be looking to break that duck at Ashton Gate.
Amin Nabizada is the club’s top scorer with three goals and will be looking to create danger for the Robins.
Bristol City have only won once at home, but Rio Cardines – who is on loan from Crystal Palace and has already registered five assists this season – could prove crucial for Skubala’s side.
His creativity could be key if City are to find a way through the Watford defence.
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Predicted teams
Bristol City: Tickle, Cardines, Eissat, Atkinson, Pring, Yah, Knight, Hirakwa, Twine, Ballard, Tolaj.
Watford: Ravaglia, Keben, Pollock, Coulibaly, Traore, Kayembe, Kyprianou, Nabizada, Bravo, Mavididi, Doumbia.
Prediction
The form Skubala showed at his previous side will reap the rewards for his current team soon enough.
Bristol City pick up the win here as Watford will struggle away from Vicarage Road.
This should be a close encounter.
Score: Bristol City 1-0 Watford
By Rob Beezley
