West Brom travel to the Kassam Stadium to face impressing Championship newcomers Oxford United on Saturday.
West Brom head west to face an Oxford United side that has exceeded expectations upon their rise from League One to the Championship this season.
Many anticipated Des Buckingham’s side would struggle after their surprise rise to the second-tier. However, with the help of a strong home record, the U’s have managed the step up well.
Oxford are unbeaten at the Kassam Stadium but are winless in four overall having drawn their last three games. In the last game before the international break, a trip to Portsmouth ended level at 1-1.
Visitors West Brom are on a short winless run of their own. After going unbeaten in the first six, they were beaten back-to-back by Sheffield Wednesday and Middlesbrough before a goalless draw against Millwall.
Nevertheless, the start to the season has been strong for the Baggies. They 4th in the Championship table and only two points off the top.
Carlos Corberan has seen Tom Fellows and Josh Maja star, often linking up with one another to form a deadly partnership.
Here, a handful of our writers make their predictions for the game…
James Ray
“Oxford United have taken to the Championship really well and with the Kassam Stadium proving to be a bit of a fortress, I think West Brom are in for a real test here.
“The Baggies’ momentum has slowed somewhat with a few winless games but the break came at a good time. They have had time to regroup and rest up and should be targeting all three points from this one.
“I can see them leaving frustrated, but a point is better than nothing. They’ll have to keep their wits about them to get that though.”
Prediction: Oxford United 1-1 West Brom
Harry Mail
“Oxford United have adapted well to life in the Championship following their promotion from League One.
“Des Buckingham’s side are proving to be a tough nut to crack, especially at home, and they are carrying momentum right now.
“This will be a tough game for West Brom and they are winless in their last three outings in the league.
“However, for some reason I can see them getting a win at the Kassam Stadium this weekend. I feel the international break will have helped the Baggies sort out a few issues.”