After finishing with just three wins in their last 13 games in League One last season, Crawley were many people’s tips to be involved in the relegation battle this term. That opinion was further strengthened as they lost four of their first six this season but they have rallied of late, losing just one of their last five games and limiting the amount of goals they have conceded. After losing 10 during the four successive defeats they have conceded only four in the next five. Manager John Gregory can also point to the fact that they will have played eight of the current top 10 following their home fixture with Peterborough.
Despite reaching the play-offs, last season was considered something of an anti-climax for Peterborough. They have started this season relatively well, especially when you consider the player exits they have had in the close season, most notably the sale of Britt Assombalonga to Nottingham Forest for a club record £8m. Six wins and two draws from their first 11 games see’s them occupying third place at the moment, five points off of leaders Bristol City. They have struggled of late on the road, however, losing their last two after winning three on the bounce on their travels. They will be looking to put that right against Crawley.
Gregory has sought to build his team on an experienced defence and forward line with plenty of youth in the middle of the pitch. There’s little doubt which aspect of Crawley’s game needs improving as they have managed only eight goals in their first 11 games, a tally only equalled by bottom club Crewe. If they can improve on that tally then they will stand a good chance of staying in this division as they look solid enough in defence.
The sale of Assolmbalonga has meant that there was a big void to fill for the Posh as they look to win promotion this season. The striker managed 24 goals in the league in his only season at the club so the challenge is there for the likes of Kyle Vassell and Conor Washington to fill that void. They have seven goals between them thus far but will be looking to improve on that over the coming weeks as the bid to improve their club’s run of form of one win in their last five league games.
Come the end of the season, these two sides are likely to be separated by a considerable number of points as they are expected to be competing at opposite ends of the table. Peterborough have struggled of late but there’s no doubt that when they are in form they’re one of the top sides in this league. Crawley are not the most offensive of sides and that could allow the away side the chance to dominate the ball. I think they’re value to get back to winning ways here.
Peterborough 5/4 @ Betfred
