Blackburn Rovers will be looking to end a dismal run of form when they host Cambridge United in the FA Cup. The visitors are currently in 18th place in the League One standings. Rovers are in 17th place in the Championship.
Preview (Blackburn Rovers vs. Cambridge United)
As Blackburn’s manager, Jon Dahl Tomasson has had a somewhat successful tenure. He nearly led the team to the Championship playoffs the previous season and faced early challenges this time around. Nevertheless, with just four points from eight Championship games, the Dane might be one more loss away from losing his position at Ewood Park. Blackburn put more pressure on Tomasson on New Year’s Day when they twice let a lead go against Rotherham United, who were in last place, following four straight losses. While climbing to the Championship league will take precedence over FA Cup progress. A home loss against a side in a lower tier might be the tipping point for Blackburn’s leadership.
This match is being played precisely 31 years to the day after their last match. Blackburn prevailed 3-2 in a League Cup tie. Even though Cambridge has never triumphed at Ewood Park, newly appointed head coach Neil Harris is looking forward to the task of creating history on Saturday. Harris started League One with seven points from his first three games. He lost consecutive games against Oxford United and Leyton Orient. However, Cambridge is currently four points clear of the drop zone and will now focus on attempting to extend their winning streak in this competition. Both their victories have come at home against League One opponents Fleetwood Town and non-league Bracknell Town. The latter team won 4-0, scoring three goals in the first 13 minutes of play.
Team News
Tomasson usually switches up his squad for cup matches, but since his job might be on the line, there might not be as many changes this time. Lewis Travis and Jake Garrett could make a comeback in central midfield, while Niall Ennis is expected to take Samir Telalovic’s spot in the Blackburn attack. It is unlikely that any of Blackburn’s long-term injury absences will be healed in time for this match.
In the meanwhile, Ryan Bennett might be called up to replace Jubril Okedina in the Cambridge backfield for this match. Sullay Kaikai might also play in the last third, but Harris might decide not to make too many changes. With Blackburn’s previous performance, Cambridge will be confident in their ability to pull off an upset at Ewood Park. But Blackburn has a strong offensive line despite their weaknesses, therefore we predict a comfortable victory at home.
Blackburn Rovers 3-1 Cambridge United
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