Randers-FC Midtjylland

Sunday 30/3 14.00

Randers (9th) got an impressive point in Parken against FC Copenhagen (1-1) last weekend. Randers are however the only team without a victory in 2014. It is surprising when you notice that Randers have been dominating most of their matches. Poor finishing and under average keeping has been costly though. Randers have a quality team though and it will only be a matter of time until someone else than the strong midfielder Kasper Fisker finds the net. Randers will be without central defender Mads Agesen who is suspended. Agesen is the only defender who has been a part of all matches in 2014, so naturally it is not good. Fortunately for Randers, the alternative Chris Sørensen’s main weakness, his speed, will probably not be challenged by the FC Midtjylland attack. Randers might be without their striker Ronnie Schwartz who left the last match with a sore collarbone. He is doubtful for this match. Schwartz is vital for Randers but has not been fit yet, which is an obvious reason for Randers’ poor striking accuracy. FC Midtjylland (1st) have lost two matches in a row and have actually been poor in the last three matches. This coincides with when they lost central defender Erik Sviatchenko to injury. It is obvious that the defence is less stable without him at the back. The last two conceded goals have been from crosses to a strong header; something that Sviatchenko was particularly good at preventing. Sviatchenko is probably not available for this match either. Offensively FC Midtjylland have been looking more modest in the last three matches. They have had 12 shots or less in the last three matches. Their average for the season is close to 15; a good indicator for the current lack of creativity.

We are likely to see a very intense ball game on a poor pitch in Randers. FC Midtjylland have been weak lately, while Randers have been decent but just inaccurate. FC Midtjylland’s team is better, but we believe that the match will be closer than the bookies predict. Therefore we pick the home win.

Recommendation: 1 (DNB) – 2.35 at Tipico

UPDATE: Izunna, FC Midtjylland's ever important defensive midfielder is out for the season. A huge blow for FC Midtjylland who are without a defensive midfielder of anywhere near Izunna's standards. Should allow Randers to dominate the midfield. Plus Randers coach Colin Todd is finally back after more than a month's absence with a heart condition. Assistant Thomasberg has had limited success in Randers in this period: 0 wins. Players like Todd so expect renewed energy.