Prediction: Blackburn vs West Brom

23rd January 2011

Blackburn remained well clear of the relegation zone despite losing at Stamford Bridge and they can now make a giant step towards survival by beating their relegation rivals. West Brom finally ended the dismal run as they beat Blackpool at the Hawthorns, but the Baggies need to continue picking up points if they want to survive this season.

Blackburn have been starring into the eyes of relegation for quite a while now, but they somehow always find a way to survive. Sam Allardyce was the man who kept the Rovers above the danger zone over the last few years and now that he is gone, I am not really sure that Blackburn can avoid relegation struggle this term. Rovers have been notching up decent results under Steve Kean, but they were also very lucky in some of the games, with their recent performances far from the desired level. They could have a difficult job against revived West Brom as the Baggies have shown they can match every team in the top flight, especially as Rovers still have some important absentees. Brett Emerton and Phil Jones remain unavailable, whereas Ryan Nelsen is doubtful with a knee injury. New signing Jermaine Jones is likely to be handed a debut after joining the club on loan from Schalke.

West Bromwich have started the season in excellent fashion and while many pundits were surprised by Roberto Di Mateo’s side, they could soon see that the Baggies full deserve the good position in the standings. The Italian boss has created a homogenous unit from players with little or no Premiership experience, the absence of which didn’t stop them from recording a nice string of results early into the season. West Brom did suffer a small dip in form at the beginning of December, when they embarked on a six-match losing run that threatened to ruin their great start of the season. Nonetheless, I have to say they were extremely unlucky to lose six straight games as they managed to completely outclass Manchester United and Bolton during that run, which goes to prove they are a very serious side. With the players restoring the lost confidence with the win over Blackpool, I can definitely see West Brom getting something from this match. Roberto Di Mateo will have Jonas Olsson back from suspension, but Graham Dorrans is doubtful after twisting his ankle in training.

Conclusion

Blackburn have not been as good as their results would suggest and it is my opinion they don’t have the quality to match exciting West Brom side. The Baggies have dominated most of their games this season and I honestly think they can bring all three points from Ewood Park.

Verdict: Away win West Brom (2)

Best Odds: 12/5

Bookmaker: Victor Chandler