Northampton vs Bristol Rovers Predictions

• Both teams have scored in each of Northampton’s last four games.
• Only five League Two sides have managed more than the 52 league goals scored by Bristol Rovers this season.
• Just three points now separate the two promotion-chasing sides, with Bristol Rovers winning November’s return fixture 2-1.

Promotion hopefuls meet with visitors in fine form

After a run of seven wins in nine matches, Joey Barton’s Bristol Rovers occupy the final playoff place in League Two, albeit having played more games than some of those chasing them. However, their fine form, which includes three successive victories ahead of their trip to Northampton, has fans dreaming of an immediate return to the third tier.

Although Northampton have one of the best home records in League Two, with only two clubs bettering their record of 11 wins from 18 matches on home turf this term, there is plenty to suggest that this contest will be close. The Cobblers have only won two of their last six games, and just three points now separate the division’s second-placed team from 7^th-placed Rovers.

Indeed, Bristol Rovers managed a 2-1 home win over Northampton in November’s return fixture, and the hosts’ defence, although it remains the joint-best in the division after conceding just 32 goals in 37 games, has begun to creak. Both teams have scored in each of Northampton’s last four games, and only five League Two teams have outscored Barton’s visitors this season.

Both teams to score could be the best play

Northampton are usually strong at Sixfields, but with their promotion charge wobbling and Bristol Rovers in good form, punters may be best advised to neglect the win markets for this clash, and to back both promotion-chasers to net.

Since the turn of the year, Northampton have managed almost as many draws (five) as wins (six) in league action, so a 1-1 draw could be a decent correct score prediction.