- Burnley U21 have scored eight goals and conceded nine in their first four Premier League 2 games.
- Aston Villa U21 have scored seven goals and conceded eight in their opening four fixtures.
- Aston Villa U21 have the advantage in the Premier League 2 - Division 1 standings (16th with five points) over Burnley U21 (23rd with three points).
Open game expected in clash of styles
Both Burnley U21 and Aston Villa U21 have shown some vulnerability in the Premier League 2 Division 1 during the opening few weeks of the season and we're predicting an open contest when the two clubs come together in their match at The Barnfield Training Centre on Saturday.
Chris Casper and Ash Higgins run a well organised academy in which the development of players is the first priority, but the Clarets haven't exactly been full of confidence in their 1-0-3 start to the season.
They have shown the capacity to win games, most recently a 4-1 win over Derby County U21, but also the tendency to concede too many in games they have either let slip or got a point in the bank.
Villa can push the pace
It's an interesting contrast to Jimmy Shan's style, which usually revolves around possession-based development and sharp, attacking patterns through the centre of the pitch, but the Young Lions have been just as inconsistent as Burnley in their results.
Their 2-2 draw against Middlesbrough U21 and 3-3 thriller against Fulham U21 were both exciting, but their 4-1 cup defeat to Crewe was a shocker and they have one defeat to show for their 1-2-1 record so far.
Clash of wide boys
The most likely outcome of this game is for it to be a tight game that stays open with goals at both ends as both teams have the ability to score, but also to concede, goals. The odds reflect that too, with Aston Villa U21 about 7/5 for the win, Over 2.5 goals at 21/50 and Both Teams to Score - Yes at 9/25.
Burnley are more patient and structure their side in a 4-2-3-1 with moderate pressing, but will be just as happy to let the game open up if the tempo rises. Villa prefer 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 shapes and are usually looking to play at a high tempo, so their wide players will be keen to get the ball.
Brandon Pouani is the spark for Burnley, but Aston Villa have Oscar Johnson to add another dimension when the game gets open, so the Villa are our choice to just edge it. Burnley should get a goal and make them sweat it out, however.
