West Brom vs Barnsley tips and predictions

No surprise to see home side odds-on

It's tenth placed West Brom versus 24th placed Barnsley in this Championship clash as the hosts look to add to the 34-point gap between the sides.

It's a short price favourite here but all might not be what it seems. It doesn't feel like value but they'll likely get the job done.

There is something of a pattern emerging in their recent results. The hosts have secured 3 home wins from their last 5 games while the travelling side has suffered reverses in 16 of their recent 19 matches on the road. They need to ready themselves for another defeat here.

There's been a lot of exuberant commentary about the home side's defence. The strategies are working. This clash is an opportunity for them to keep a clean sheet; they have kept a clean sheet in 11 of their last 20 home games. While the hosts have been rolling with the punches, the opposition here has had some disruption in defence lately. Barnsley have conceded two or more goals in all of their last 4 matches. And when trying to create chances the visitors haven't been making the most of things. They've scored one or less goals in all of their last 8 matches.

West Brom are justifiable favourites and it's possible they just don't give any chances away. There are better bets available but the No BTTS bet seems sensible. As far as the goal line is concerned, it's Under 3.5 in this match given the prices available.