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Bristol City v Birmingham - A game in which both sides will be looking to get not only three points, but a significant psychological advantage over one another. City are looking at two things depending on your perspective: continuing their unbeaten run, or ending a streak of three games in all competitions without a win. Either way the Robins are yet to be beaten at home and will be desperate for three points to keep up with Wolves. In their last two games, Birmingham have looked a little less invincible but still claimed four points. The hard work which they put in against Donny at the weekend with ten men on the field may take it's toll. The one thing they do have is an abundence of firepower, expect them to use it. Verdict: A tough ask in which both sides could settle for a point. I think they'll be made to, 1-1.
Burnley v Blackpool - I've seen significant improvement in both sides so far, paticularily Blackpool who beat Southampton and Barnsley, two relegation rivals, in their last two matches. They should be confident travelling to Burnley but I expect them to play largely like they did against the Saints, on the break, but looking to take every oppertunity they get to get men behind the ball. Their aim will be not to concede. I watched Burnley get stuffed by Wednesday in their opening game but they did well to beat Forest 2-1 in their last game. Returning to Turf Moor they will be hoping that in front of their home crowd they are somewhat lifted and can get a victory. Verdict: Both sides need the points to keep their good recent runs going, I fancy the home side though 2-1 Burnley.
Doncaster v Charlton - A couple of season's ago, Doncaster would probably not have believed they would have ever been playing hosting Charlton Athletic, but such is the magic of football that Donny even start this game ahead of their visitors. The home side would have been disappointed to lose against a 10-man Birmingham side, but their disappointment can be measured by the fact that is how much they now expect of themselves. Charlton went ahead against Wolves but were pegged back and were eventually beaten by two late goals. Given the form of Wolves they put up a decent fight. This season the Addicks look a much stronger force and although I don't think they are playoff material, they can certainly give anyone a game. Verdict: Both sides will be looking to rebound from defeat so I imagine they will be determined to win. I expect Charlton to sneak an unexpected win 1-0.
Preston v Nottm Forest
The home side picked up a useful draw with Coventry at the Ricoh on Saturday and still sit in a lofty position behind Birmingham and Wolves which continues to demonstrate their improvement. Last season they struggled against relegation but this year they could even be an outside bet for a top six place. I thought Forest would do well when they came up but they have yet to develop much consistency, paticularily away from home where last time out they were beaten by Swansea. A home defeat by Burnley will leave them even more determined to pick up something away from the City ground. Verdict: Preston's much improved form should help them pick up a much needed win to keep pace with the pace setters. 3-1 Preston.
MORE TO FOLLOW!