Staunch rearguards meet at Portman Road
Ipswich Town’s late dash for a play-off place could hinge on this Saturday’s visit of Plymouth Argyle.
Kieran McKenna has had an overwhelming positive influence on the Tractor Boys since replacing Paul Cook mid season, and the former Manchester United coach will certainly be eyeing an automatic promotion tilt next season, if the Suffolk club run out of games to crack the top six this time around.
Steven Schumacher has stepped in excellently for Ryan Lowe, who left for Preston North End and Argyle have been the main surprise package in the promotion race, in just their second season since promotion from League Two.
Background
Plymouth Argyle are sitting pretty in fourth place after six wins on the bounce without conceding as Steven Schumacher’s revolution on the South West Coast continues to bear fruit.
The schedule has been relentless for the Pilgrims and it could catch up with them in Suffolk after what has been a very demanding last month or so.
George Edmundson and Kayden Jackson are sidelined for the hosts, who have conceded just two goals in their last ten games, keeping eight clean sheets, a very menacing backline for the Pilgrims to try and break down.
There is a risk that these two cancel each other out, both playing three at the back, and a less than entertaining game could play out.
Argyle have not conceded from 5.97 xGA in their last six, a little unsustainable even though the Tractor Boys are stronger defensively than they are going forward.
Goals?
I am a little worried by how much this looks like an unders banker, but you cannot deny the recent form points towards that angle.
Ipswich have scored in seven of ten.
Ipswich have conceded in two of ten.
Ipswich have seen both teams score in two of ten.
Ipswich have seen over 2.5 goals in one of ten.
Argyle have scored in eight of ten.
Argyle have conceded in two of ten.
Argyle have seen both teams score in none of their last ten.
Argyle have seen over 2.5 goals in one of ten.
Ipswich may have to spring out of their shape to make up the gap to the top six, whereas a draw would be seen as a very good point for the Pilgrims.
Post bet chat Marcus's Tips:
1-0 Ipswich, this was pretty comfortable.