Barrow vs Salford City: Prediction, Team News, and Lineups Preview
The upcoming clash between Barrow and Salford City on New Year’s Day is critical for both teams. Barrow aims to secure a victory to alleviate their relegation woes. Currently, they sit in 19th place in the League Two standings, while Salford City occupies the fifth position, just five points off the top.
Match Preview
Barrow recently parted ways with manager Andy Whing, and Neil McDonald has stepped in as the caretaker. Under his guidance, the team experienced a much-needed boost with a 3-1 victory over Tranmere Rovers. This win was their first in the league since October 18. Despite finishing the game with ten players, Barrow held onto their lead, creating a seven-point buffer between themselves and the relegation zone.
- Current League Position: Barrow 19th, Salford City 5th
- Last Win: Barrow – October 18
- Recent Victory: 3-1 against Tranmere Rovers
- Home Record: 9 points from 11 matches at Holker Street
Salford, managed by Karl Robinson, is among the league’s most competitive teams. They have remained undefeated in their last six League Two matches, earning 14 points during this stretch. Their latest match ended in a goalless draw against Fleetwood Town. Salford maintains the joint-second best home record in the league with 24 points from 12 home games.
- Last Six Matches: W D W W W D
- Away Performance: 16 points from 11 matches
- Upcoming Fixture: Match against Shrewsbury Town
Team News
Barrow will be without goalkeeper Ben Winterbottom, who suffered a shoulder injury, and Niall Canavan, who received a red card. Wyll Stanway is set to take over in goal, and Lewis Shipley is expected to join the backline. Josh Gordon is likely to retain his position in attack, barring any fitness issues.
On the other hand, Salford City may see Fabio Borini earn just his second league start, possibly replacing Cole Stockton. Robinson might choose to maintain the starting lineup unless he opts to introduce fresh legs in pivotal positions.
Predicted Lineups
| Barrow | Salford City |
|---|---|
| Stanway | Young |
| Williams | Turton |
| Raglan | Oluwo |
| Shipley | Cooper |
| Whitfield | Grant |
| Harper | Longelo |
| McCann | Butcher |
| Jackson | N’Mai |
| Smith | Garbutt |
| Fletcher | Stockton |
| Gordon | Udoh |
Match Prediction
Considering Barrow’s renewed spirit from their recent win and Salford’s formidable form, this match promises to be competitive. However, it is anticipated that Salford City might edge out Barrow with a close scoreline of 2-1.
