Portsmouth and Oxford United meet in the Championship on Saturday in a clash between two of this year’s newly-promoted sides.
Portsmouth have endured a horrid run of fixtures to start their campaign in their most-winnable game of the season yet on paper, they put in an abysmal display.
Pompey made the long journey to face Stoke City on Wednesday night and fell to a huge 6-1 loss. The Potters had lost the first two games under new boss Narcis Pelach but picked up their maiden win in rampant fashion.
It means John Mousinho, who has just signed a new deal, and his side remain winless after eight games and they’ll be determined to respond.
Oxford United meanwhile have started the strongest of the three promoted sides. They sit 11th after the midweek Championship fixtures.
Des Buckingham’s side fought back to claim an impressive point away from home against Luton Town. The Hatters were 2-0 up but goals from Tyler Goodrham and Ruben Rodrigues sent the U’s back to the Kassam Stadium with something to show for their efforts.
The Yellows are still yet to win away from home but this start to the season has seen them exceed the expectations of many.
Here, a handful of our writers make their predictions for the game…
James Ray
“It remains to be seen just how Portsmouth respond to that midweek defeat. It should be the kick up the backside Pompey need to breathe life into their season but after such a tough run of form, they won’t be panicking yet.
“That sort of loss can be seriously damaging to a side’s morale though. Oxford United will be determined to capitalise on that.
“Buckingham’s side are in good spirits and continue to impress upon their rise from League One. As such, this could be a good chance for a first away win.
“However, Mousinho has shown before he can get quick responses from his Portsmouth side. I’ll back them to calm nerves with a draw, though in the hunt for a win, the wait goes on.”
Prediction: Portsmouth 1-1 Oxford United
Harry Mail
“Portsmouth’s return to the Championship hasn’t gone to plan yet and they have struggled with the step up a division.
“Their confidence will be low and they need to start picking up more results sooner rather than later.
“The fixture list wasn’t kind to them though and more easier games on paper should start coming for them now.
“Oxford United have done well so far this term and had chances to win against Luton Town. If they are more ruthless, I think they may be able to sneak a win at Fratton Park.”