Bristol City welcome Middlesbrough to Ashton Gate in what promises to be an entertaining clash between two attacking sides. Boro arrive in 2nd place, while the Robins have been competitive despite an inconsistent season.
The state of play
Bristol City sit mid-table in the Championship, looking to build momentum heading into the festive period. The hosts have shown they can compete with the best, drawing 2-2 with Leicester recently in a game that highlighted their attacking intent.
However, defensive frailties have cost them dear at times, and they will need to be more solid against a Middlesbrough side that has been scoring freely this season.
Middlesbrough are in 2nd place with 37 points from 21 matches, firmly in the automatic promotion picture. Michael Carrick's side have been one of the division's most entertaining teams, though a patched-up defence has been a concern in recent weeks.
Boro's 3-1 home win over QPR last time out showcased their attacking quality, but they have been without several first-team defenders and have gone eight games without a clean sheet.
Key battle
Bristol City's home crowd can create an intense atmosphere at Ashton Gate, and Middlesbrough's defensive vulnerabilities could be exploited. However, Boro's firepower makes them dangerous against any opponent.
The visitors' ability to score goals will be tested against a Bristol City side that is unpredictable but capable of causing problems when on form.
Prediction
This has the makings of an open, entertaining game. Both teams to score seems almost certain given the attacking profiles and recent form. Middlesbrough's quality should see them edge it, but Bristol City will make them work for it.
Prediction: Bristol City 2-2 Middlesbrough
