Walsall vs Barnsley: League One Play-Off Preview & Prediction

Walsall have it all to do in the second leg of their play-off semi-final; they will be trying to overturn a 3-0 deficit at home to Barnsley on Thursday night.

Two goals from Sam Winnall and an own goal from Jason Demetriou has left their play-off dreams hanging by a thread.

The Saddlers’ home form though is a cause for optimism as they have won four of their last five home games in the league. But; most importantly, they recently lost 3-1 the last time Barnsley visited the Bescot back in March.

The hosts will need to score three times if they’re to prevail – though at home this season they have only scored more than two goals on two occasions.

Form is with Barnsley as they’re unbeaten in eight games on the road – with their defence also being one of the best in the league, conceding five goals in their previous 12 outings.

Star striker Winnall is in fantastic form having scored four goals in his last two games – including a brace in the impressive 4-1 demolition of champions Wigan on the final day of the league campaign.

Wales international Tom Bradshaw is Walsall’s top goalscorer in all competitions this season (20) – Photo: Paul Roberts / Offside.

Team News:

There are no new injury concerns for Jon Whitney, who will look to change the team around following the disappointing first leg.

On-loan striker Jordy Hiwula could possibly start at the Bescot.

Likewise; Barnsley’s caretaker boss, Paul Heckingbottom has no new injury worries ahead of Thursday night’s game and will most likely name the same side for the fifth successive match.

League Position: Walsall – 3rd (84pts); Barnsley – 6th (74pts)
Previous Meeting: Barnsley 3-0 Walsall (May 14th, 2016)
Form: Walsall – DLWWWL; Barnsley – DWDDWW
Key Men: Walsall – Tom Bradshaw; Barnsley – Adam Hammill
Shoot Says: Walsall 2-2 Barnsley