Although 13 points seperate Crewe and Hull, the game provides Crewe with a real opportunity to drag Hull back into the relegation mire. Crewe, who have a game in hand, have closed the gap between themselves and safety to just 7 points. Fellow relegation battlers Sheffield Wednesday host Preston today, whilst Brighton travel to QPR and Millwall host Leicester.
Hull City Team News:
Dario Gradi has more options for the trip to Hull following the return of Luke Varney, Anthony Tonkin and Darren Moss from injury. However, the balance to the team has been much better of late meaning that full-backs Moss and Tonkin may find it difficult to re-establish themselves in the side. Following a promising return from injury last weekend, David Vaughan may be recalled to the side at the expense of the below-par Steve Jones. Meanwhile, Gary Roberts continues to join Juan Ugarte and Ben Williams on the injury list.
Player to watch: Luke Rodgers
The forward has been an important part of the team who have seen their fortunes improve recently. Not only did Rodgers bag an equaliser last weekend, but his tireless work rate ensured that defence started in attack for Crewe.
Crewe Alex Team News:
Keith Andrews is rated as doubtful, having picked up a knock in last weekend’s 1-0 victory over Plymouth. Nick Barmby remains sidelined through injury though Ryan France had returned to training. Jon Parkin may well start for Hull, after Dario Gradi declined the opportunity to sign the solid forward whilst he was at Macclesfield.
Player to watch: Craig Fagan
The striker, who scored against Crewe on boxing day, has 5 goals for Hull this since, and leads the way in terms of assists with 7. Fagan could partner Jon Parkin up front, and Crewe will have to be wary of the combination of pace and power.
Match Facts & Stats
Last Time Out: A 2-2 draw on Boxing Day wasn’t of great help to either side, though Billy Paynter’s long range screamer ensured that the Tigers took something from the game.
Recent Meetings:
Crewe 2-2 Hull
Hull 1-5 Crewe
Hull 1-2 Crewe
Crewe 1-0 Hull
Hull 7-1 Crewe
Crewe have won just 3 of the 19 games between the sides at Hull.
Games between the two sides are often high scoring occasions, with the 37 meetings producing 124 goals.
Hull’s top scorer: Stuart Elliott – 6
Hull’s top assistsman: Craig Fagan – 7
Stuart Elliott has had the 14th highest amount of shots in the division with 79 shots in total.
The game promises to be a fair one, with Crewe the best disciplined side the in the division, and Hull the 3rd best.
Crewe have taken 6 points from their last 6 games, whilst Hull have taken 5.
Crewe have never lost with Madjid Bougherra or Tony Grant in the side.
Ref Watch:
T M Kettle
Match Prediction:
Hull 2-3 Crewe
A vital chance to close the gap has gone missing, your current form is not bad so keep on rolling, you never know.