Barnsley made it two wins out of two in 2025 with a convincing victory over Crawley thanks to goals from Jon Russell, Max Watters, and Davis Keillor-Dunn. A strong start from the Tykes paid off in the 11th minute when Corey O'Keeffe's cutback from the right was turned in by Russell to break the deadlock. Junior Quitirna had an opportunity to equalise for Crawley midway through the first half but lashed his effort over the bar. Watters made it 2-0 in the 51st minute as the hosts broke forward, converting past Jojo Wollacott from inside the box after being played through by Adam Phillips. Keillor-Dunn added the third just three minutes later, curling in a left-footed effort from the edge of the box for his fifth in six matches. Crawley should have pulled one back with 20 minutes to go when Mael De Gevigney gave the ball away at the back but Rushian Hepburn-Murphy's effort struck a post and Barnsley cleared. Report supplied by PA Media.
Promotion hopefuls Notts County will be aiming to get back on track after suffering their first defeat in four games against Walsall last time out, which saw them drop down to seventh. The Magpies have, nevertheless, won six of their past nine home league games played on Saturdays, keeping seven clean sheets during this time. It's no defeats for Swindon in their past four games, and George Cox's last-gasp penalty handed the League Two strugglers a much-needed home win over Colchester on Wednesday. Ian Holloway’s side must improve their away form before their trip to Meadow Lane this weekend, having won just two of their past 25 away league games. They are also facing Notts County, against whom they have lost five of their past seven away league matches.
This Saturday's schedule features several key showdowns, including Burton Albion hosting Northampton Town at the Pirelli Stadium. Currently positioned at the bottom of the table, Burton can only boast 14 points from their 23 matches, whereas Northampton stands 19th with 23 points from 24 games. Predictions favored Burton to secure their first win of the season under new management, forecasting a 2-1 outcome.
Meanwhile, Cambridge United will battle Bristol Rovers, both of whom are desperate to avoid relegation. Cambridge sits 23rd with 17 points, and Bristol holds 20th place at 22 points. Matches like this often end tightly contested, and many expect this one to finish 1-1.
Barnsley's continued success will face off against Crawley Town as they look to achieve their fourth consecutive victory. Barnsley, currently sixth, is positioned strongly against Crawley's 21st place, with Barnsley predicted to win by 3-1, though Crawley might put up some fight, having had additional rest prior to the match.
The encounter between Charlton Athletic and Reading promises to be significant as both compete for playoff spots. They’ve recently won their last three matches, with pundits favoring Charlton to edge past Reading with a predicted score of 2-1.
On the playoff front, Exeter City takes on Bolton Wanderers, with both teams aware of the impact the match could have on their aspirations. Exeter trails Bolton by three points, and tight forecasts suggest Bolton will win 2-1, potentially shifting playoff ambitions.
Huddersfield Town welcomes Rotherham United this weekend, with hosts striving to break back toward the upper echelon of the standings after their schedule had previously included some delays. Most outlooks predict Huddersfield to triumph 2-1.
Elsewhere, Leyton Orient is aiming for playoff enhancement against Shrewsbury Town. Recent performances have both sides hopeful, but Leyton Orient maintains the edge and is projected to win 2-1.
Lincoln City faces Stevenage with aspirations for maximum points. Being close on the table does not guarantee easy victories, and their recent struggles present this match as one likely to end 1-1.
Stockport County will host Mansfield Town, both aware of promotion ramifications. Given Stockport's form, this is projected to be another draw, likely ending 1-1.
Wigan Athletic takes on Birmingham City, with Birmingham fighting for the top spot. Historically, Wigan has been more stable; yet there is belief Birmingham will manage to secure the away win at 2-1.
Wrexham, sitting third, will come home against Peterborough, who is dangerously close to relegation. Expectations are for Wrexham to press for victory, predicting they will win 2-0 and maintain their strong home record.
Lastly, league leaders Wycombe Wanderers hope to extend their unbeaten streak against Blackpool, who's been struggling as of late. Forecasts suggest Wycombe should secure their spot through another win, finishing 2-0.