Preview: Barnsley vs. Bristol City - prediction, team news, lineups

Barnsley play host to Bristol City on Tuesday evening looking for the win which could move them to within one point of moving outside of the Championship relegation zone.

Meanwhile, having recorded a surprise win at Blackburn Rovers at the weekend, the visitors are attempting to progress closer towards the 50-point mark.

Match preview

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If someone had offered Poya Asbaghi and his Barnsley squad a point against Fulham before the game, they would undoubtedly have accepted it, but there was a small feeling of deflation after only claiming a 1-1 draw with the leaders on Saturday.

Although there was an air of good fortune about their opener from the penalty spot, Barnsley held on until the 86th minute before a moment of magic from Harry Wilson earned a share of the spoils for the visitors.

On a positive note, Barnsley watched on during the rest of the afternoon as Reading suffered a heavy defeat at Nottingham Forest, leaving them a point closer to their rivals and now with a better goal difference.

Once Asbaghi takes time to reflect on Saturday, he will be optimistic about finishing above the Royals, but a three-day turnaround after their exertions against the standard-setters of the division will be tough on the legs.

Barnsley have now gone four matches without suffering defeat at Oakwell, collecting eight points in the process, although they now face a Bristol City who remain as unpredictable and inconsistent as ever.

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Ahead of their trip to Ewood Park to face Blackburn, the Robins had failed to post an away success since October 2, and that run appeared set to continue during the 90 minutes in the North West.

However, Andreas Weimann's last-gasp goal secured all three points for Nigel Pearson's side, ending an 11-match wait to win away from Ashton Gate.

Already 18 points ahead of their next opponents, Bristol City do not head into this fixture with any concerns about relegation, but Pearson will be eager to get another three points on the board to ensure that his team do not go through the entire season without posting back-to-back wins.

The clean sheet against Blackburn also ended a 15-game wait for a shutout, while Weimann chipped in with his 17th goal in the Championship this season.

Team News

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Despite their impressive showing against Fulham, Barnsley looked out on their feet during the final minutes, and Asbaghi may feel forced to rotate some of his players.

Josh Benson and Romal Palmer are both alternatives in midfield, but Carlton Morris will hope to retain his spot after a tireless display.

Clarke Oduor is also an option of the left-hand side of midfield if Domingos Quina is handed a rest.

Pearson must decide whether to stick with a Bristol City system that saw Weimann deputise at right wing-back and Robbie Cundy make his first Championship start at centre-back.

Barring any fitness issues, the Robins XI could stay the same, although it would come as no surprise if Han-Noah Massengo is recalled in the centre of midfield.

Pearson has previously spoken about not wanting to take too many risks on Joe Williams's fitness, possibly leading to him dropping down to the substitutes' bench.

Barnsley possible starting lineup:
Collins; Brittain, Andersen, Helik, Kitching; Palmer, Gomes; Vita, Bassi, Quina; Morris

Bristol City possible starting lineup:
Bentley; Weimann, Cundy, Klose, Atkinson, Dasilva; Scott, Massengo, James; Martin, Semenyo

We say: Barnsley 1-1 Bristol City

With Bristol City having finally ended their barren spell on their travels, they will fancy their chances of another three points. However, Barnsley's character has kept them in the hunt for survival, and we feel that the Tykes will earn another share of the spoils.

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