The72’s writers offer their Derby County vs Middlesbrough prediction ahead of the Championship clash on Saturday.
Derby County host Middlesbrough at Pride Park in the Championship this Saturday.
Derby County will be looking to bounce back from their opening day loss to Blackburn Rovers away. They were beaten 4-2 by John Eustace’s side at Ewood Park.
Paul Warne’s men responded on Tuesday night with a 2-1 home win over League Two new boys Chesterfield in the first round of the Carabao Cup. Liam Thompson and Kayden Jackson were on the scoresheet for them.
The Rams have delved into the market so far this summer to bring in the likes of Jerry Yates, David Ozoh and Ben Osborn, among others. They have the chance to sign more players before the deadline later this month.
As for Middlesbrough, they have enjoyed a decent start to the new campaign. They won 1-0 against Swansea City at the Riverside Stadium last Saturday after Emmanuel Latte-Latth’s first-half penalty.
Boro then battered Leeds United 3-0 away in the cup on Wednesday evening so will be full of confidence. Michael Carrick’s side finished 8th in the table in the last campaign and missed out on the play-offs.
Here, a handful of our writers make their predictions for the game…
Harry Mail
“I think Derby County are in for a tough season and they will have their work cut out against Middlesbrough here.
“Michael Carrick’s side look full of confidence and will fancy their chances of going to Pride Park as getting another victory as they aim to keep their momentum going.
“The Rams lack quality at the moment and could do with a few more additions between now and the end of the transfer window. Their loss away at Blackburn Rovers was a bit of a damaging one and a reality check.
“Middlesbrough should to be too strong for Derby County here and I can see them getting another win.”
James Ray
“Best believe that Derby County are going to be right up for this. It’s their first Championship game back on home turf and the home faithful are sure to create a lively atmosphere.
“There’s been a bit of needle between these two in years gone by as well, so it might get a bit feisty.
“However, in terms of the talent on the books, you have to lean towards the visitors. They’ve started brightly and possess the attacking threat to give the Rams some real defensive problems if they play how they did against Blackburn Rovers.
“I can see this being a closer affair, but I’ll be giving the edge to Carrick’s side. This should be a good game though.”
