Bitesize Prediction: Exeter vs Middlesbrough – 31/10/23

Competition: EFL Cup

Market: Middlesbrough win

Odds: 8/11 @ Pribet

Looking to extend on their EFL Cup adventure on Tuesday night, Middlesbrough will make the trip to St. James’ Park when they meet Exeter.

Starting with the hosts, while Exeter might have opened up the 2023/24 campaign with their sights set on trying to mount a genuine play-off charge, Gary Caldwell’s side find themselves in the midst of a public struggle. Although the Grecians might have been las seen over the weekend snatching a 1-1 stalemate at home against Lincoln, the Devon-based outfit have come under some increasing scrutiny. Now firmly looking over their shoulder at a looming relegation scrap, Exeter have collected just a single point from any of their previous seven appearances across all competitions. With that extended struggle underlined by a 5-0 drumming at the hands of Arsenal’s U21s while on EFL Trophy duties earlier in the month, Caldwell’s side have quickly gained a reputation for their rather glaring issues at the back. Likewise, mustering just a single win from any of their last 10 straight outings – a run that stems back to September 16th – the Grecians will be more than aware that they should face another stern examination at St. James’ Park in midweek.

As for the visitors, watching their stellar winning run come to an abrupt end thanks to a shock 2-0 defeat at home against Stoke over the weekend, Middlesbrough will certainly be seeking an immediate response here. Nevertheless, winning each of their other seven straight appearances across all formats, Michael Carrick’s men have their sights set on clinching a play-off spot this season. Riding what has been an extended wave of momentum over the past six weeks, Boro have also really impressed with their continued performances on the road. Last seen away from the Riverside collecting a 2-1 victory against Norwich, Tuesday’s guests have won each of their last four away fixtures by an aggregate score of 10-3, the former Manchester United coach should be smelling a golden chance here. With their away day success underlined by a rampant 4-0 win against Watford on September 30th, Middlesbrough are rightfully tipped as a standout contender at St. James’ Park. Given the recent gulf in class, an away victory can be found at appealing odds here.

Bet: Middlesbrough 8/11 to beat Exeter in Tuesday’s EFL Cup tie @ Pribet