Introduction
After a short break for International fixtures, the Championship returns to normal duty this weekend meaning there will probably be a lot of unexpected results this weekend. Hopefully one of these ‘unexpected results’ can see Charlton win a home game, something the Addicks haven’t done since January.
However, in order for the Reds to do that, they must beat in-form Bolton who have won five out of their last six matches and will be fighting for that final play-off spot come the end of the season.
To add to the nerves of Saturday, we will have to put up with Trevor Kettle as our referee, the same ref who failed the give even a yellow card when Grant Basey broke his leg following a challenge from Dominic Blizzard many years ago against Bristol Rovers and also harshly sent off both Danny Hollands and Scott Wagstaff last season against Oldham.
The Opposition
Despite a poor start to the season which eventually saw the sacking of manager Owen Coyle, Bolton have had a great run of form since 2013 mainly thanks to our old Palace foe Dougie Freedman. Infact due to Bolton’s recent good form, they are now in 8th place and only five points away from the Play-Off spots.
However, despite winning five out of their last six matches, Bolton lost their last match away at relegation-threatened Ipswich, a match which Dougie Freedman described as ‘disappointing’.
Bolton’s squad is also much better than their league position actually shows mainly due to the side only getting relegated from the Premier League last season and not losing too many players. The likes of Chris Eagles, David N’Gog, Chung-Yong Lee all have Premier League quality, something that the Addicks will need to be aware of come Saturday. It may also be worth noting especially for those gamblers out there that on-loan centre back Craig Dawson has scored four goals in eight games since his arrival from West Brom.
The Line -Up
After the embarrassing defeat to Milwall in our last fixture, I expect Chris Powell to make a lot of changes come Saturday. Firstly, it is likely that Powell will recall Ben Hamer back in goal after he was dropped for the last four fixtures.
The back-four may stay the same, although Leon Cort will be pushing for a starting spot ahead of Matt Taylor if the Guyana International is fit enough.
In midfield is probably where the changes will happen. Firstly, the right-hand side of midfield will be up for grabs and one of Scott Wagstaff, Lawrie Wilson or Danny Green will likely get the starting spot.
Alternatively, Bradley Pritchard may occupy the right-hand-side with one of Dale Stephens or even Mark Gower going in the middle. Callum Harriott should continue on the left and it is likely that Johnnie Jackson will continue to lead the side in the middle of midfield. Also, despite Danny Haynes’ poor performance against Millwall, he is likely to continue upfront alongside Yann Kermorgant.
The Prediction
A very optimistic 2-1 victory.-Just seems like one of those games we might actually win.
0
Comments
In an act of acute desperation, the entire Grumpy family is moving seats en mass from the NWQ D block to the tranquility of the East stand to change our luck at home.
If we win I will have to buy a tartan blanket and thermos flask but it will be worth it.
3-2 home win.
Massive demand for season tickets, singing in the Floyd Road, Easter eggs all round and Spring arrives at last.
Jackson, Gower, Stephens the other three.
we have not got an earthly of winning.
0-5.
1-1 draw.
1-3.
I'll take a point now if offered.
we can but dream
But if its not, i can see us getting a hiding.
Missing the game on Saturday going for a 2-2 draw
CAFC 1 v Bolton Wanderers 3