Bristol Rovers vs Carlisle Predictions

• Carlisle are without a league clean sheet in seven matches
• Both teams have scored in Bristol Rovers’ last three league outings
• Rovers have the joint-worst defensive record in the division with 17 goals conceded across their ten games

Out-of-form duo could serve up a thriller

Neither Bristol Rovers nor Carlisle are yet to match their pre-season expectations and this is an important fixture for two under-fire managers.

Rovers were relegated from League One last season and, despite making a number of eye-catching summer signings, find themselves in 20th with just ten points from as many games.

Carlisle are only above struggling Rovers courtesy of a better goal difference and, with confidence low in both camps, this may be a game where attacks come to the fore.

The Cumbrian visitors are without a clean sheet in seven and they head to the Memorial Ground on the back of losses to nil against Sutton (4-0) and Forest Green (2-0).

That said, Carlisle racked up 33 chances across those two losses, so are clearly creating plenty of goalscoring opportunities. They are averaging 12.2 shots per game which is considerably better than Rovers, who have seen only basement boys Scunthorpe register a lower average of efforts on goal than themselves.

Carlisle have conceded ten goals across their last four matches and have suffered three straight away defeats, while the Pirates have the joint-worst defence in the division with 17 goals conceded across their ten outings.

Both teams have scored in each of Rovers’ last three league games and that looks likely to continue against Carlisle.

Correct-score punters should opt for the visitors to win 3-1. Rovers have lost their last two home games against Leyton Orient and Swindon by that scoreline and Carlisle have been creating chances at a higher rate.