Rotherham vs Middlesbrough prediction: ENGLAND: Championship betting tips on match 2023-04-30 12:00.
Whilst the country celebrates the May Day bank holiday, Rotherham United arenât far away from calling âmayday, mayday, maydayâ after a 2-1 defeat to Cardiff left them just three points above the drop zone ahead of this round. A superior goal difference over those below at the conclusion of the last round means that the Millers can all but ensure their safety with victory here.
A final day showdown with Wigan awaits Rotherham following this clash against a Middlesbrough side with nothing tangible to play for, so taking advantage of that here could prove crucial. Rotherham may take confidence from the fact they've defeated a few sides still in play-off contention at home this season, but theyâre yet to defeat any top-five side on their own turf ahead of the round (D2, L2).
A 2-1 defeat against Luton in the previous round ended the mathematical possibility of automatic promotion and has consigned Michael Carrickâs men to what will likely be a fourth-placed finish. Carrick knows all too well about the heartache the play-offs can bring, having lost in the final as a West Ham player back in 2004, so bouncing back to build momentum ahead of the semi-final is now the priority.
Improving on a run of just one win from Boroâs last five away games certainly feels needed with their semi-final first leg set to take place on the road (W1, D1, L3). The New York Stadium isnât guaranteed to be a happy hunting ground despite its occupantsâ lowly position as Boro have already lost three of their five away trips to sides beginning the round in 19th or below (W2, L3).
Players to watch: Chiedozie Ogbene scored Rotherhamâs first or only goal in each of his last four scoring appearances, yet none of those games ended in victory (D2, L2)! Although Middlesbrough boast the Championship Player of the Year in Chuba Akpom (G28), Cameron Archer deserves some of the spotlight after directly contributing to 16 goals in just 15 league starts for the club (G10, A6).
Hot streak: Rotherham are winless in each of their last nine Championship games played in the month of May.