Match Preview
Rotherham United will be desperate to halt their worrying run when they host high-flying Bradford City at the AESSEAL New York Stadium on Thursday night in League One.
The Millers have slipped into the relegation places after three defeats on the bounce, scoring just seven times in their nine league matches so far. That’s a big concern for boss Leam Richardson, with forwards Sam Nombe and Jordan Hugill struggling for consistency.
Bradford meanwhile are enjoying life at the other end of the table. The Bantams sit top of League One after three straight victories, with Graham Alexander’s side showing the kind of form that makes them serious promotion contenders.
Head-to-Head
These Yorkshire rivals last clashed earlier this year in the EFL Trophy, where Bradford edged a 1-0 win at this very ground.
In fact, the Bantams are unbeaten in their last two against Rotherham, and given the form of both sides, the visitors will fancy their chances again on Thursday.
Team News
Rotherham United
- Marvin Kaelta is expected to drop out after being hooked at half-time against Mansfield.
- Zak Jules could come into the back line, while Arjany Martha may start wide.
- Hugill is likely to lead the line once more despite his patchy form.
Probable XI: Dawson; Hall, Jules, Baptiste; Martha, Gore, Powell, James; Spence, Benson, Hugill
Bradford City
- Bobby Pointon continues to shine in midfield and should start again.
- Andy Cook could be recalled to spearhead the attack in place of Will Swan.
- Josh Neufville, fresh off scoring against Blackpool, keeps his place at wing-back.
Probable XI: Walker; Pennington, McIntyre, Touray; Neufville, Leigh, Power, Wright; Sarcevic, Pointon; Cook
Odds
- Rotherham win: 11/4
- Draw: 13/5
- Bradford win: 10/11
Bookmakers clearly see the away side as favourites, though Rotherham’s home form means it’s not a foregone conclusion.
Prediction
Rotherham have been struggling for goals and confidence, while Bradford look like a side full of belief at the moment.
The Millers will put up a fight at home, but the Bantams’ quality and momentum should be too much in the end.
Winonbetonline prediction: Rotherham United 0-2 Bradford City
