Middlesbrough vs Luton Predictions & Tips

Middlesbrough can power past Luton and re-take their position in the top six when the two playoff contenders clash at the Riverside Stadium on Saturday.

The Hatters jumped into the last playoff spot as a result of Boro’s shock defeat at Barnsley last weekend, but Chris Wilder’s team are as trustworthy as any in the division when it comes to performing in front of their own supporters.

Boro, with seven straight home league wins, have amassed more points on their own soil than any other club over the last three months. Luton’s away form has been good enough to keep them in contention, but they have not beaten a team currently in the top ten on the road this season.

Injuries and fatigue harm Hatters’ chances

Nathan Jones’ side did avoid defeat away to Blackburn in September and Nottingham Forest in November, but neither of those clubs could boast the kind of home momentum that Boro have right now. The hosts should also still be buzzing from their FA Cup fifth round victory over Tottenham Hotspur, which again showcased how much confidence and toughness they exude right now.

Luckless Luton lost 3-2 to Chelsea in the cup and were even more unfortunate in that their game was scheduled 24 hours after Boro’s clash with Spurs – granting Wilder’s side an extra day to rest and prepare. Another blow came their way when starting goalkeeper Jed Steer sustained what appears to be a season-ending Achilles injury early in the first half. Neither midfielder Henri Lansbury or top scorer Elijah Adebayo, who picked up knocks against Derby last weekend, were fit to face the Blues.

None of it boosts their prospects of holding onto sixth place this weekend and we see no reason to overcomplicate a bet on Middlesbrough to win when they are available at a shade under even money. A 2-1 home success looks worthy of support because Boro have conceded in each of their last five league games.