Barnsley Preview

After an opening day defeat at the ‘boing boing baggies,’ City play their first home game against Yorkshire rivals Barnsley tomorrow night. Parky will be looking to build on a promising performance against the Albion by picking up the first points of the season in this encounter. With Barnsley one of the favorites for relegation this season, the Tigers should be looking for nothing less than a win – especially with local pride at stake.

Vital Quotes:

Hull City Team News:

A lot could depend on whether or not Tottenham winger Mark Yeates is signed in time for the match. With Yeates’ arrival imminent, is seems it is Elliott’s position most under threat – especially as he only lasted thirty minutes before being subbed at the Hawthornes.

City don’t have any fresh injury worries but long term casualties whom are still recovering include Danny Coles, Stephen McPhee, Ian Ashbee, Nick Barmby and Sam Collins.

Player to watch: Daryl Duffy

Perhaps not most people’s choice but I have chosen him for an alternative reason. This isn’t necessarily the danger man but it is the man everyone in the crowd will be watching as his place in the first-team comes under scrutiny. After missing several chances against West Bromwich Albion, Duffy needs a goal quick – to increase both his confidence and ease the pressure some fans are already putting him under.

Barnsley Team News:

Michael Nardiello is the only player missing from the Yorkshire team as Richie has a fully fit squad to choose from. Barnsley came through their opening day defeat against Cardiff unscathed and will more than likely field the same starting eleven.

Player to watch: Michael McIndoe

Someone that needs no introduction to City fans. I lost county of how many times he would score against us whilst playing for Doncaster Rovers and he is someone whom right-back Sam Ricketts will have to mark closely in order to keep Barnsley quiet. A main attacking force, stop him and we may be half-way there.

Match Facts & Stats

The recent record between the two clubs have seen Hull City win three of there last seven encounters home and away with Barnsley matching that…Only one of the last seven games has been drawn.

The last encounter at the KC Stadium saw City run out 2-1 winners with a goal from Craig Fagan proving decisive as City won promotion from League 1.

Ref Watch:

Referee: S W Mathieson

Assistant Referee’s: B Parry and D J Roberts

Fourth Official: A H Greenwood

Match Prediction:

Despite suffering an opening day loss, the performance of the Tigers left many fans encouraged about the season ahead. City appear to be lacking firepower up-front but with the right service, City might just start to click.

Barnsley also suffered an opening day defeat at home to Cardiff City 2-1. With Barnsley strongly tipped for relegation, City must win this game…Vital Hull’s opinion: 3-0 to City!

Next Fixtures:

Coca-Cola Championship:

Sat 12th Aug: Hull City v Derby County (5.30 K.O – Sky)

Sat 12th Aug: Colchester v Barnsley (3 p.m)