Championship preview

15 September 2009 10:48
Both West Bromwich Albion and Middlesbrough have an eye on top spot in the Championship as the action continues on Tuesday evening. Leaders Newcastle are not playing until 24 hours later on Wednesday, which gives their rivals the chance to leap-frog them. The three relegated teams from last season's Premier League have wasted little time in flexing their muscles in the Championship as they lead the way after six games. West Brom are in pole position to take top-sport as they lie a point ahead of Boro and they face a home clash with Doncaster at The Hawthorns. Middlesbrough would need West Brom to slip-up to take advantage, and they would also need to take maximum points from their trip to South Yorkshire where Sheffield Wednesday await. Whilst the former top-flight clubs have all made bright starts, they are closely followed by Sheffield United and Preston North End - who are both undefeated thus far. The Blades face a trip to the Ricoh Arena against Coventry City, whilst Preston are also on their travels as they take on Scunthorpe United. There are still four winless teams in the Championship and they all go into games on Tuesday looking for their maiden victories. Bottom of the league Barnsley have just one point to their name and new boss Mark Robins failed to inspire them in his opening clash against Watford at the weekend, but he will be hoping for a better showing at Derby County. Roy Keane's Ipswich Town will be hopeful of opening their account as they host Nottingham Forest, while under-pressure Plymouth boss Paul Sturrock will also be hoping for the same outcome as Watford visit Home Park. Peterborough are finding Championship life much more difficult than they imagined - unlike Leicester - who have adapted to life in the higher division excellently. The top-two from League One last season meet at The Walkers Stadium. Bristol City have made an excellent start to the new season and they will be looking to continue their good form as they make the short trip into Wales to face Swansea. The final game of the evening is a late kick-off in the capital as Queens Park Rangers host Crystal Palace at Loftus Road. There are two further games on Wednesday, as leaders Newcastle travel to Blackpool and Reading host Cardiff.

Source: SKY_Sports