Big Match Preview

Burton Albion vs. Crewe Alexandra

Saturday September 18, 15:00, Pirelli Stadium

Two sides who've made an encouraging start to the new season meet in Staffordshire this weekend as Burton Albion host Crewe Alexandra.

Both teams currently sit just outside the play off places in League Two after the opening half a dozen games.

Their current form also suggests that those in attendance at the Pirelli Stadium should be able to look forward to two sides who know how to find the back of the net.

Indeed, the Railwaymen are the top scorers in the division, with 14 goals already bagged in their six matches. Half of those were accrued in just one game, too, a 7-0 demolition of Barnet at Gresty Road.

Alex, with their veteran manager Dario Gradi back at the helm, also saw off Bury 3-0 last weekend in a performance of attacking and footballing verve that was their trademark for so many years under his stewardship.

They will hope to continue that form on Saturday as they go in seek of a first away victory of the campaign. So far a loss at Cheltenham has been accompanied by draws against Lincoln and new boys Stevenage.

Shaun Miller, with four goals to his name, has enjoyed a profitable start to the season up front for Crewe. He's joined by former York man Clayton Donaldson, who has bagged himself a couple of goals.

Summer signing from Morecambe, defender Dave Artell, has also scored two for his new side, and is a threat from set pieces.

Paul Peschisolido is in his second season in charge at Burton Albion

It's something Burton will need to be aware of as the home team look to maintain their unbeaten home record so far this season.

The Brewers have already beaten Morecambe and Hereford on home soil, scoring three goals on both occasions. They were also held to an opening day 0-0 stalemate against Oxford.

They also drew last weekend, but in contrasting style. After finding themselves 3-0 down at the break away at Rotherham, Paul Peschisolido's men engineered a stunning comeback in the second period to level matters 3-3.

Instrumental to that fightback was striker Shaun Harrad - who grabbed a hat trick to take his tally for the season to six goals in all competitions.

His partnership up front with Greg Pearson will once again be key to Albion - now in their second season as a Football League club.

This should be a highly entertaining game, with two sides who like to play good football and approach matches with the intention of going for the win.

Both sides should be full of confidence, too. Home advantage might just swing it the Brewers way though as they continue their fine start to the season.

Nobes' Prediction: Burton Albion 2 Crewe Alexandra 1