Both of these sides were playing top flight football last season and bearing that in mind, one would think that both would be serious contenders for automatic promotion. However, it hasn’t worked like that for either and at the time of writing, both sides are sat outside of the top six. However, with Blackpool sat in 7th position and Birmingham just one place lower in 8th, that is something that could certainly change this weekend.
Having completely reshaped their squad during the summer, nobody knew what quite to expect from Blackpool. It would be fair to say that the Seasiders have been fairly inconsistent so far although their form has definitely picked up in recent weeks and they approach this game sat just one point away from the playoff positions. The club have won three out of their last four fixtures and with one of those results being a 5-0 away victory against Leeds, Ian Holloway’s men are certainly showing signs of improvement and it looks as though they could break into the playoff positions very soon.
Birmingham meanwhile are just one point worse off than their opponents although after playing two games less, they are most definitely in a very healthy position. Europa League commitments mean that the Blues have had to rearrange several fixtures this term and this of course reflects badly on their league position. However, after collecting twenty five points from their opening fifteen games they are still in the playoff hunt and just like Blackpool, a victory this weekend could even propel them into the top six. It could be said that recent form for Chris Hughton’s men has been slightly inconsistent, although the Blues did manage to beat Burnley in their last encounter after drawing 1-1 with Peterborough in the game before that.
There’s not much to report in the way of team news although Blackpool striker Lomana LuaLua is hopeful of regaining his place in Ian Holloway’s starting eleven after being dropped for the last clash. However, Holloway does not have any fresh injury concerns to contend with and after recent form, he may decide to keep changes to a minimum. Birmingham on the other hand will hand late fitness tests to Liam Ridgewell and Morgaro Gomis as the duo recover from thigh and calf injuries. On a more negative note, Chris Hughton still won’t be able to rely on Jordan Mutch as he struggles with an ankle problem.
As for a prediction, our tip is going to be a victory for the Seasiders. Blackpool have pieced together some good form in recent weeks and while Birmingham have amassed a similar number of points, we think the home advantage will count for everything – 2-0 Blackpool.
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