Prediction League Week 22

A special Prediction League update as we turn our focus on the FA Cup third round with both Preston and Forest in action.

We like to think we're expert predictors here at Soccer AM/MW so we've decided to go head to head with the BBC's very own Mark Lawrenson [right] for this week's predictions.


Nottingham Forest vs. Birmingham City




Lakes: 2-1

I think Forest will buck the predictions and win deservedly against Birmingham.

Nobes: 1-1

Birmingham lost to Huddersfield in this competition a couple of years back, so they're no strangers to being on the end of an upset. They're a stronger team now though, and on a long unbeaten run. So are Forest though, and a draw looks likely.

Turls: 1-2

Forest seem to have picked a bit of a bum draw here. Although they have drawn a Premier League team it's not one of the exciting high-flyers. I reckon Forest will give a good go at it but Birmingham's quality will prove too much.

Lawro: 2-2

In Forest and Birmingham we have the form team of the Championship taking on the form team of the Premier League. I just wonder whether Alex McLeish will be tempted to leave out one or two players. Billy Davies is doing a fantastic job at the City Ground and they've had no problems scoring goals.


Preston North End vs. Colchester United





Lakes: 1-0

I can see this being a lacklustre game overall, but Preston should have enough to overpower Colchester.

Nobes: 2-1

Alan Irvine was harshly dismissed by North End this week and I wonder if they're ripe for an upset. Colchester are bang in form and Aidy Boothroyd's sides are always difficult to face, but surely Preston will want to impress any potential new manager?

Turls: 2-0

The FA Cup is meant to be romantic and cause upsets. There's a reason one team is a higher league than the other though. Preston will outclass a Colchester side who does not travel well.

Lawro: 1-0
Lawro neglected to include his prediction for his own team on the BBC website [You don't think he actually spoke to us, do you?] Therefore, we'll put him down for a Preston win, as he's always biased. Let's just say, 1-0. Sorry Mark.