Barnsley vs Bolton tips and predictions: Terrible Tykes to struggle against Bolton attack

Barnsley were in the thick of the automatic promotion race as recently as mid-March, but two wins in 12 saw them come perilously close to crashing out of the play-offs.

Now the out-of-form Tykes must compose themselves for a tricky two-legged tie with favourites Bolton Wanderers, who finished third on 87 points.

Their only loss in 12 came against promoted side Derby County and although they’re guilty of drawing too many matches, they’re a tough team to beat.

Notably, the sides have drawn both of their meetings this season, 1-1 in Bolton and more recently 2-2 in Barnsley, yet the visitors' form doesn’t fill us with confidence.

The Tykes haven’t been a defensive juggernaut all season, but they’ve often limited sides to one or fewer goals and outscored opponents when needed.

However, their defence since March has been shambolic. The goals have dried up to an extent, but their defensive numbers have fallen off a cliff. As a result, Collins was sacked last week.

They’ve shipped 25 goals in 12 matches, making an average of 2.08 per game, and struggled to respond in their typical fashion with just 18 goals.

There was no new manager bounce at the weekend as Martin Devaney’s positivity failed to produce a response and Barnsley struggled to control the game in a 1-1 draw with Northampton.

It seems to us there’s too much uncertainty and a lack of confidence at Oakwell, so it’s tough to back them to win either leg against a well-rounded Bolton side.

Key stats

- There have been over 2.5 goals in 12 of Barnsley’s last 15 matches
- Barnsley are winless in six and 10 of their last 12 matches
- Bolton have lost one of 12 despite facing six top-10 sides
- Bolton are unbeaten in 18 of 19 league meetings with Barnsley

Suggested bets

Bolton Wanderers to win

Both teams to score

Over 2.5 goals