Morecambe vs Barnet; Sky Bet League Two
Morecambe vs Barnet. Sky Bet League Two.
Globe ArenaAttendance2,073.
Morecambe v Barnet preview
Friday 27 April 2018 10:41, UK
Morecambe boss Jim Bentley could name an unchanged line-up for the Sky Bet League Two relegation clash with Barnet.
The Shrimps, who drew with Cambridge in midweek, will ensure their league status by avoiding defeat on Saturday. Garry Thompson missed the goalless draw with the U's due to an Achilles injury and it remains to be seen whether he will be fit to feature.
Midfielders Andy Fleming and Gregg Wylde and striker Vadaine Oliver are among the players pushing for starts.
Barnet manager Martin Allen has said he has no fresh selection problems ahead of the crucial game. The Bees will be relegated to the National League if they fail to win at the Globe Arena.
Long-term absentees Jamie Stephens, Elliott Johnson and Dave Tarpey (all knee) and Harry Taylor (broken metatarsal) are unlikely to return. Midfielder Mauro Vilhete is not expected to play again this season.
Opta stats
Morecambe have only won one of their last six games against Barnet (D2 L3), having won four of their previous six in League Two against the Bees (D1 L1).
Barnet have won two of their last four trips to Morecambe in League Two (L2), having failed to win any of their first four against them on the road (D2 L2).
Morecambe are now winless in eight League Two games (D6 L2), the longest run in the division.
Barnet have won just one of their last 12 away league games (D2 L9), and just three all season. Only Chesterfield (two) have picked up fewer victories on the road.
Prutton's prediction
Is the Great Escape still on? Barnet have picked up 10 points from their last five games to give themselves a chance, but they need to win on Saturday to give themselves a chance on the final day.
Morecambe are in a difficult position because they know a draw would be enough to ensure their survival. They missed a chance in midweek to guarantee it, and they'll be feeling the nerves for sure. I think the Bees will do enough to keep their fight going.
David Prutton predicts: 0-2 (12/1 with Sky Bet)
