- Team form: Queen of the South are unbeaten in their last five League One matches (D4, W1).
- Away form: Cove Rangers have failed to win either of their last two away matches (D1, L1).
- Head-to-head: The last two League One meetings between the sides have finished all-square, including a 1-1 result eight weeks ago at Cove Rangers.
An exciting clash of contrasting styles
Standings and recent meeting
Queen of the South are sitting 4th in League One, having picked up 46 points from 32 games, while Cove Rangers are 8th with 28 points from 31 matches. These two sides have had contrasting recent runs, and the last time they met was only eight weeks ago in a 1-1 draw at Cove Rangers.
Tactical profiles
Peter Murphy has done a good job at Queen of the South, instilling a compact, solid style upon the side, and making the most of the ability of the players at his disposal. Queen of the South play a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3, they are physically strong in the box with a wide option, and can change the pace of the game. They’re a front-foot team with an emphasis on attacking in a direct manner. On the other hand, Paul Hartley has a more flexible side that can play both 4-3-3 and two up top. Cove Rangers have a little bit of experience up top, and the ability to both press and stay compact in their own half.
This should be an exciting match, as Queen of the South are a direct side while Cove Rangers are a little more possession based and adaptable. The visitors have a decent chance here but Queen of the South will be looking to add to their tally in the race for promotion and the play-offs.
Queen of the South can squeeze a win
Queen of the South haven’t won either of their last two home matches in League One and Cove Rangers are coming into this game in mixed form (W1, D2, L2). However, the hosts have drawn their last two home matches in League One, and the draw against Cove Rangers was away from home.
Queen of the South are unlikely to have enough to outplay Cove Rangers but they should have enough to win this game. Queen of the South are a solid, but not spectacular side, so it may be close and the odds for a home win are good value. Queen of the South have conceded 20 goals in 16 home matches, while Cove Rangers have conceded 20 in 15 away fixtures, so goals should be expected on Saturday.
Backing Queen of the South to get a win with both teams to score is the main selection for this one, with a 3-1 home victory the correct score prediction.
- Kai Kennedy is the best player on the pitch more often than not for Queen of the South, he is the club's top scorer in League One this season with eight goals and he has three assists in the side’s last five.
- Nicky Clark has three in the same period and should be a threat in the box.
- Christopher Maguire has scored two of Cove Rangers' last five goals, Mitchell Megginson is Cove Rangers' top scorer in the league this season with nine goals in 25 appearances.
