There have already been plenty of surprises in the Championship this season in what’s shaping up to be another unpredictable campaign. Southampton have impressed so far and lead the pack ahead of another busy weekend. Here we pick out some top games.
Burnley v Southampton
The Saints face a tricky game at the weekend as they travel to Turf Moor to face Burnley. If Southampton have been the surprise package at the top so far, the Clarets have equally been the shock strugglers and currently sit 20th in the table, only out of the relegation zone on goal difference.
Despite their lowly position, Eddie Howe still has a talented squad at his disposal and will be looking for the likes of Zavon Hines and Andre Abougu to stand up and lead the team to victory.
However, the South coast club have the momentum going into the game and with the class of Rickie Lambert and Adam Lallana, they should just sneak another victory (Burnley 11/5, draw 23/10, Southampton 5/4).
West Ham v Peterborough
Another promotion chasing-side in action on Saturday is West Ham, who play host to Peterborough in a match that has the potential to be a belter.
After being relegated from the top flight last season, Sam Allardyce has taken over the reigns at Upton Park and made the team more of a unit, especially in defence after years of inconsistency.
Despite mumblings among fans about the former Bolton boss’ playing style, the Hammers currently sit in fifth and victory could see them move further up the table.
However, Peterborough are a team who can beat anyone on their day and since Darren Ferguson’s return to the club last season, have gone from strength to strength.
Despite losing star man Craig Mackail-Smith, the Posh have made a good start to the season and will be looking at Saturday’s game as a chance to cause an upset.
Both sides like to play football but the Hammers should have the firepower to record a convincing win against the London Road club and will see it as a must-win game even at this stage of the season if they are to bounce straight back up (West Ham 8/13, draw 11/4, Peterborough 9/2).
Doncaster v Crystal Palace
The final match that we are picking out on Saturday is Crystal Palace’s trip to South Yorkshire to take on Doncaster.
Rovers are currently bottom of the league but it’s the dawn of a new era at the Keepmoat Stadium as Dean Saunders takes charge after his appointment on Friday.
Palace have had a typically inconsistent start to the season but will be pleased with their mid-table position after some difficult games.
The Eagles are without a number of their key players for the match but should welcome back experienced duo Julian Speroni and Darren Ambrose.
Palace’s injury problems could take their toll and, keeping in mind the tradition of manager’s normally winning their first game, Rovers should pick-up their first victory of the campaign in this one (Doncaster 6/4, draw 9/4, Palace 9/5).
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