Millers to grind out Bantams win
Bradford v Rotherham
Only pride will be played for in this Yorkshire derby on Saturday.
The two sides have been going in opposite directions recently, so much so that a Rotherham win will take them above Bradford in the table.
Expectations were high at Valley Parade this season, but a run of nine games without a win has contributed to their fall from promotion contenders to mid-table makeweights.
The latest installment of their dreadful form came at Dagenham and Redbridge, where a 3-0 defeat almost certainly ended their chance of a play-off spot.
Manager Stuart McCall was as honest as ever afterwards, admitting he had “underachieved”, “failed”, and “let the club down”.
He also reiterated his stance of leaving the club at the end of the campaign, although recent reports suggest he may have been persuaded to stay after an outcry from supporters at his proposed departure.
It’s also been a season of ifs and buts for Rotherham, who would be 3rd were it not for their points deduction.
Gaffer Mark Robins credited the change in formation from 4-3-3 to 3-5-2 for his team’s 3-2 win over Morecambe in midweek.
He will fancy his side’s chances here whatever formation they use, as the Millers have the best away record in League Two this season, winning more games on the road than any other club in the division.
However, despite their desperate form of late, the Bantams have only lost twice at home so far this season, so it will be far from a walkover.
Uncertainty is surrounding the club now though, with McCall’s future set to be in the balance until he sits down with the club’s board at the end of the season.
Until then, City’s form could continue to suffer, whilst the visitors will have a top-half finish in their sights.
The prospect of Bradford finishing below Rotherham in the table back in August seemed almost impossible, but a Rotherham win will make it almost certain.
Verdict: Bradford 1-2 Rotherham