SKY BET: Pearson’s Tigers can prove coupon-busters at City Ground

Once again the problem for Simon Grayson’s side is defending, with eight goals conceded in their last three games.

Norwich City and Barnsley have picked up points at Elland Road from 2-2 and 3-3 draws, respectively, and with their confidence restored by a 3-1 win at Derby, Sean O’Driscoll’s side will also fancy themselves to pinch a draw.

Rovers, too, have been struggling to keep clean sheets – only one in the last 14 games – so a flurry of goals is distinctly possible at Elland Road this afternoon.

Hull City have their work cut out at the City Ground, where Nottingham Forest are unbeaten in their last 36 matches.

Billy Davies has led his side to 27 wins in that time, yet Forest are going through a difficult spell with only one win in their last six games.

Hull boast a proud record on their travels, having not lost any of their last 12 away games, so Nigel Pearson’s side could be one of the day’s coupon-busters.

Derby County have vowed not to sack manager Nigel Clough despite taking only one point from their last eight home games, but Barnsley can test their resolve by getting a result at Pride Park.

Given their woeful recent form, the Rams look much too short at 11-10.

Steve Cotterill’s methods finally look to be paying off for Portsmouth, who have won their last five games without conceding a goal.

They can continue that run by beating hapless Sheffield United at Fratton Park.

Plymouth Argyle have greater things on their minds than today’s visit to Hillsborough, with the club in imminent danger of going out of business due to a financial crisis.

Gary Megson’s Sheffield Wednesday really should be able to take full advantage as they bid to build on two solid away performances.

Lee Clark’s Huddersfield Town are unbeaten in 12 league games and should be heavily backed to win at Yeovil, who have lost their last three home games without scoring.

Peter Jackson has a tough task as he begins his audition for the vacant manager’s job at Bradford City.

The former Huddersfield and Lincoln City chief takes the Bantams to Gillingham, who have lost only to Chesterfield and Wycombe – the division’s top two teams – in their last 18 games.

The Gills are sure to be prominent in the day’s multiple bets, but they have drawn six of the last seven and Jackson, who will also be in charge for Tuesday’s home game against Rotherham, can inspire his new team to capture a point.

The Millers’ home form is fairly solid, with nine goals scored in three straight wins, and Ronnie Moore’s men should see off Barnet at Don Valley Stadium today before Tuesday’s trip.