Birmingham – Preston

Birmingham host Preston in what promises to be a decisive clash at St. Andrew’s, with the home side perched in ninth place on ten points after two wins, four draws and a single loss, edging a modest +1 goal difference (10‑9). Preston, languishing at the foot of the table in 23rd with just three points from one victory and six defeats, sit on a bleak –7 margin (6‑13) and will need a full‑scale turnaround to keep their survival hopes alive. The disparity in recent form is stark: Birmingham have been unbeaten in their last six league outings, while Preston have failed to secure a point in five straight games. A win for the hosts would cement their push for a top‑half finish, whereas a surprise result for Preston could spark a remarkable revival in the relegation battle.