Danny Cowley’s Pompey will make the long trip to the New Meadow as The Blues look to to climb back into the playoffs.
The recent appointment of the Cowley brothers has sparked a lot of excitement amongst the Fratton faithful, especially after ending a four game losing streak with a win over fellow promotion hopefuls, Ipswich. A more high-pressing and passing approach was on show from Pompey, Marcus Harness’s winning strike being a prime example.
Despite sitting nine places below the visitors, Shrewsbury may still come into this one with an air of confidence. They are unbeaten in their last four, as well as picking up an impressive point against top of the league Hull City.
Goals from Curtis Main and Harrison Chapman saw Shrewsbury claim a victory away to Burton Albion midweek. They appear to be safe from the drop zone now and with multiple games in hand over teams above, they could well climb up a few more places.
Embed from Getty ImagesPompey currently sit one point outside the playoff spots, with a favourable run of fixtures to finish of the season. A win this weekend could be crucial in kickstarting a good run of form as they hope this will finally be their year to clinch promotion.
These two sides previously met on the opening day of the campaign in what was a low-key affair, neither side being able to break the deadlock within the ninety minutes. However with both sides now at the helm of different managers, Saturday’s fixture could playout completely differently.
Team News
Shrewsbury will be left without first choice goalkeeper, Matija Sarkic, after he was called up to the Montenegro national team. Donald Love and Aaron Pierre will be missing from the squad due to injury, as well as captain Ollie Norburn after picking up ten yellow cards.
The international break will also affect Pompey with winger Ronan Curtis out on duty for the Republic of Ireland. Ellis Harrison has been potentially ruled out for the rest of the season, following a knee injury a few weeks back.
Top scorer John Marquis is also doubtful to make a return from injury in time, however Callum Johnson could find himself back on the team sheet after returning to full training earlier this week.
Match Prediction: Shrewsbury 0-2 Portsmouth
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