EFL Tips 15/4 Acca | Gab Sutton

Despite having lost 2-1 at Mansfield in Conor Hourihane’s first game as caretaker, Barnsley look primed for a honeymoon period under the Irishman.

Darrell Clarke didn’t have the technical coaching nous to maximize a strong Reds midfield, and was arguably too strategically conservative, without drilling them into a brilliant shape either, or how strong his relationship was with his players is up to debate.

As such, there’s a good chance that the South Yorkshire outfit respond positively to his exit in their first subsequent home game, under Hourihane, who seems to be popular with players and supporters alike.

It could be season over for Tarn, who are nine points off the Play-Offs, but the same is true of visitors Cambridge, who are 13 points off safety, as attentions turn to a summer rebuild under Director of Football Mark Bonner and head coach Neil Harris.

It’s natural to be apprehensive about opposing a relegation struggler at the business end, because they’re fighting for their lives and might spring a surprise, but in Morecambe’s case the effort has never really been the issue.

The Shrimps have been competitive in most of their games, with only eight (22%) of their 37 league matches being defeats by more than one goal, but they often come up short in terms of quality, with a squad assembled on what’s at best a low-end National League budget.

Whereas, hosts Port Vale boast a squad jam-packed with individual quality, and have key target man Jayden Stockley back, striking up a valuable partnership with finisher Lorent Tolaj, while Ben Garrity brings a phenomenal stamina from midfield.

Plus, visitors Morecambe have lost 14 of their 17 league encounters with top half opposition.

Wimbledon have been a reliable, consistent side over the course of the season – they’ve never had more than three wins in a now, but never more than two defeats in succession either, churning out a flow of points for the duration.

Johnnie Jackson’s side have achieved this through excellent organisation, regardless of defensive personnel, although Joe Lewis at the back has especially stood out as a key performer.

Elsewhere, they have a nice blend in midfield, where playmaker Jake Reeves keeps things ticking over with his smart use of the ball, while the likes of Callum Maycock and Ali Smith brings power and athleticism.

The Dons should beat Barrow, who are looking ahead to a summer rebuild under Andy Whing, as they look assumed of their EFL status.

* Odds correct at the time of writing. 18+ only. GambleAware.