Oxford v Blackpool predictions: Free-scoring U's can seize the initiative

Free football tips, best bets and analysis for the League One playoff semi-final first-leg match between Oxford and Blackpool.

Where to watch

Sky Sports Football, 6pm, Tuesday

Best bets

Oxford
2pts 6-4 Hills

J Henry first goalscorer
1pt 16-1Betfred

Team news

Oxford
Right-back Sam Long is hopeful of overcoming a hamstring problem.

Blackpool
Centre-back Daniel Gretarsson hasn't recovered from a shoulder injury. Sulley Kaikai, Ethan Robson and Grant Ward are doubts.

Match preview

Oxford's scoring power can ensure they nick an edge over playoff specialists Blackpool at the Kassam Stadium.

The two form horses of the League One playoff complement go to post in front of a few thousand U's fans, who can cheer their side to a first-leg lead.

Karl Robinson's men go into the game in great nick as the top scorers of the four sides with 77 goals to their name. Twenty-four of those were bagged in their last seven matches, six of which were wins.

The last of those was a 4-0 romp past Burton which, coinciding with Portsmouth's bottle job against Accrington, gifted Oxford their chance in the post-season promotion free-for-all. Not bad for a team who were bottom of the table in November.

The goal threats are obvious with a front three of Elliott Lee, Matt Taylor and Mide Shodipo who have weighed in with a combined haul of 34 goals. For a first-scorer bet, however, the 16-1 about dead-ball whizz James Henry looks far too big. He's scored seven times this season and is the type of big-match ace who will thrive in this contest.

Blackpool head for Oxfordshire boasting the best defensive record in the division and, like Oxford, have turned their fortunes around after slow starts.

They are ever so well organised under ex-Anfield coach Neil Critchley, although they are sweating over the fitness of a number of players.

Clean sheet king Chris Maxwell – he's had 21 shutouts this term – is likely to be the busier of the two goalkeepers.

Key stat

Oxford have scored 14 goals in their last four home matches, winning them all.

Not got a bet365 account? Sign up today and get up to £100 in bet credits

Up to £100 in Bet Credits for new customers at bet365. Min deposit £5. Bet Credits available for use upon settlement of bets to value of qualifying deposit. Min odds, bet and payment method exclusions apply. Returns exclude Bet Credits stake. Time limits and T&Cs apply.

CLAIM OFFER HERE

MORE FREE BETS

Today's top sports betting stories

Follow us on Twitter @racingpostsport