Derby host Middlesbrough at Pride Park on Saturday in one of three early kick-offs in the EFL Championship. The home side are looking to bounce back after their opening day defeat to Blackburn, whilst Middlesbrough eye two wins from two after their impressive performance versus Swansea on opening day.
Boro’ really caught the eye last weekend. As expected under Michael Carrick and their abundance of attacking talent, they recorded 18 shots against the Swans, amassed a huge xG of 2.86 and created 5 big chances.
In comparison, Middlesbrough kept Swansea very much at bay and looked assured defensively. Boro conceded just 0.47 xG, 5 shots and 0 big chances.
Ivorian striker, Emmanuel Latte Lath is already up and running for the new season. He has now scored in seven consecutive Championship games either side of the summer, netting nine goals. He is one of the most inform strikers in England at the moment.
The same positivity can’t be said of Derby, as they marked their return to the Championship with a 4-2 loss to Blackburn at Ewood Park. Their vulnerability at the back was very much exposed, conceding an xG of 2.05 and conceding 5 big chances. Despite scoring twice, the Rams only registered an xG of 1.08 and managed to create just two big chances in the game.
Middlesborough were early pre-season favourites for a playoff spot this term, and fourth most likely to win the league this season. Their performance last weekend has only elevated those beliefs.
I think the difference between the two sides quality is quite evident, and Boro’ will be able to continue this momentum against a Derby side who are finding their feet in the new league.
TIP: Middlesborough 0.0, -0.5 Asian Handicap @ 1.850 (Bet365)
