Blackpool vs Sheffield Utd prediction: ENGLAND: Championship betting tips on match 2022-12-28 20:15.
A ten-man Blackpool side failed to convert a half-time lead against Hull into victory on Boxing Day, and the resulting 1-1 draw extended their winless run to seven games (D3, L4). Under fire Tangerines boss Michael Appleton rued the missed opportunity against a relegation rival but curiously called it a “moral victory” in the aftermath, one which ultimately counts for little as they remain two points from safety.
Bouncing back in this fixture seems unlikely if you give stock to trends, as Blackpool have failed to win each of their last 11 year-ending league games (D6, L5) and have also won just two of their last 15 H2Hs with Sheffield United. A respectable record as pre-match outsiders in home league action this season may inspire confidence (W2, D1, L2), but the reality remains that Blackpool are without a goal in 270 minutes of play.
The disappointment of losing to Rotherham ahead of the World Cup break seems like a distant memory for Sheffield United as they returned in December with four straight victories. Boss Paul Heckingbottom praised his side for a “hard fought” 3-1 win over Coventry last time out, a result which left them level on points at the top of the table and eight points clear of third.
Sheffield United are just as sharp on their travels, evidenced by their league high 23-point haul ahead of this trip (W7, D2, L3). And now there’s a bit of history on the line for the Blades here if they can beat Blackpool away from home for the first time since 2008, as it would cement five straight away league wins for the first time in over four decades (1979)!
Players to watch: Marvin Ekpiteta has been the recipient of two of Blackpool’s astonishing six red cards this season, including a second yellow sending off in the reverse fixture. Looking to avoid any rash challenges will be Sheffield United’s in-form attacker Iliman Ndiaye who has assisted in three straight games and also scored in the reverse.
Hot streak: Sheffield United haven’t drawn any of their last 18 year-ending league games (W11, L7).