While some teams played as normal in the English Football League last weekend, others were out of action due to the first international break of the season. The schedule is back to normal this weekend, in what is Matchday 5 in the Championship and Matchday 8 for League One and League Two. There are once again some excellent fixtures to look forward to, and you can get involved at BetVictor sports betting, with full coverage provided.
Championship
Charlton Athletic vs Millwall
One of the Saturday lunchtime kick-offs in the Championship is a London derby between Charlton Athletic and Millwall. Only 2 points and a few places separate them in the league, and both sides will see this fixture as a chance to kick on. Millwall probably expected to be doing better than they are at this stage, and will be keen to show their quality.
Stoke City vs Birmingham City
Stoke City were arguably the top side in the Championship up until their last game, which saw them lose at the hands of West Brom. Birmingham City also lost last time out, but they’re proving they can hold their own in the second tier. Both sides will want to bounce back from defeat, and based on the season so far, Stoke will fancy their chances of taking three points.
Southampton vs Portsmouth
The pick of the Championship action is Southampton vs Portsmouth, with the fierce south coast rivals clashing at St. Mary’s. While the Saints start as favourites, Pompey are ahead of their rivals in the table with an extra win to their name. But it will be a tough ask to defeat Will Still’s side on home soil.
League One
Bradford City vs Huddersfield Town
Bradford City vs Huddersfield Town promises to be one of the best games in the EFL this weekend. The Yorkshire derby sees 5th host 3rd, with both teams performing well in the third tier. It’s still early days, but the Bantams and Terriers are dreaming of promotion, and this is a chance to make a statement on that front.
Northampton Town vs Blackpool
Northampton Town vs Blackpool may not immediately jump off the page as a standout fixture, but with Blackpool 22nd and having only taken 4 points from 18, the pressure is on Steve Bruce. If Kevin Nolan’s side run out winners, it could be the end of the road, with Ian Evatt linked with replacing Bruce.
Peterborough United vs Wycombe Wanderers
Another fixture where managers could be at risk, adding a bit of extra spice to the game. The Posh continue to struggle, with only 1 point to their name after 7 matches played. Wycombe, who like Posh will have been expecting a lot better, are 19th on 5 points. So, Darren Ferguson and Mike Dodds will be desperate for a win and performance, or the pressure will mount further.
League Two
Chesterfield vs MK Dons
Chesterfield and MK Dons were tipped as favourites for promotion this season. And while both are still in and around it, they’ve both flattered to deceive as well. You’d argue that MK Dons are seriously underperforming, and having lost their last two games, questions are already being asked. Chesterfield may capitalise on this.
Fleetwood vs Walsall
Walsall are going great guns in the fourth tier once again, and with three consecutive wins to their name, which includes victories over Chesterfield and MK Dons, they will fancy their chances of visiting Fleetwood and taking all three points home with them. Fleetwood continue to be patchy in form and performance.
Gillingham vs Notts County
Gillingham have been the best side in League Two so far this season. They’re top of the league and remain undefeated. They welcome Notts County this weekend, a team that has won their last two games and will be confident as a result. However, Gillingham are one of those teams that have become renowned for being difficult to beat.
All of the games above, and the rest of the fixtures this weekend, are available to bet on by visiting the football betting page at BetVictor.
