These two teams are currently stuck in midtable as neither of them have been able to put a consistent run together.
Oxford were close to claiming a playoff place last season, howe but they will have to turn their inconsistent form around quickly if they are to make a charge for the top six this time around. This inconsistent form is demonstrated by the fact that the U’s have failed to win back-to-back matches this season.
The main problem for Pep Clotet’s side has been their back line which has now kept just one clean sheet in their last seven games. Having said that, they have been able to balance this out with several strong performances in the final third – Oxford have scored 13 goals in their last five in all competitions. Unfortunately though, despite this decent Goals For record, the aforementioned poor performances at the back mean Oxford find it hard to pick up wins.
The U’s have been decent at home this season with no league losses at the Kassam Stadium so far this campaign.
After suffering two defeats on the spin a couple of weeks ago, Walsall have now recovered to go undefeated in their last two. Despite operating on one of the lowest budgets in the division, Walsall’s ambition to reach the League One playoffs every season is admirable. However, they need to pick up some form quickly if they are to achieve their objectives this term.
Much like Oxford, Walsall have been poor at the back but decent in the final third. The Saddlers are yet to keep a clean sheet this season, however, they have managed to score in all of their competitive matches since their opening day defeat to Bury.
Jon Whitney’s side have had a huge problem on their travels this season with just one point taken from a possible 12 away from the Banks’s Stadium. Having said that, this is no different to the last campaign – The Saddlers’ have failed to win a competitive away match since Boxing Day 2016.
Given the performance of these two teams in the final third, I am expecting goals at the Kassam on Saturday. However, looking at Walsall’s terrible away record, I can also only see an Oxford win. Oxford United to Win and Both Teams to Score is excellent value at 14/5.