EFL expert issues prediction on Derby v Barnsley six-pointer

Sky Sports EFL expert David Prutton has predicted that Derby County and Barnsley’s relegation six-pointer will end as a 1-1 draw at Pride Park tomorrow. 

The two clubs have spent much of the season in the bottom three but as the business end of the season approaches, both will feel as though Championship survival is not out of reach.

The Rams have been deducted a total of 21 points this season and continue to be plagued by off-field issues but a win against the Tykes could see them move to within just five points of safety.

Barnsley, meanwhile, have sparked into life under Poya Asbaghi over the past month by winning three of their last four games and rising up the table into 22nd – moving just six points off Reading.

The pair meet at Pride Park on Saturday afternoon, with both knowing that a win could be vital to their survival hopes.

However, in his predictions for Sky Sports, Prutton has forecasted a 1-1 draw between the two relegation candidates.

He explained: “It is all starting to unravel again for Derby on the pitch. Three straight defeats has left them back in the mire and staring relegation in the face again. Wayne Rooney cut an extremely frustrated figure as they were beaten by Cardiff in midweek as it looks to all be catching up with him.

“Barnsley have turned their season on its head with three wins from four. Whether it is too little, too late remains to be seen. A win here would give them real belief, but I think this will be a draw.”

That result would mean 21st-placed Reading extend their gap over Barnsley to eight points and to 10 points over Derby, should the Royals beat Millwall.

It may also see the Rams drop to the bottom of the Championship table, assuming Peterborough United beat Huddersfield Town