Preston v QPR
Preston's play-off hopes have diminished quickly in recent weeks, losing four of their last five Championship matches following a 4-0 defeat to Cardiff at the weekend.
The Lilywhites squandered chances to get back in the game at 2-0, missing two penalties before folding tamely.
A possible reason behind Preston's poor run below par form is a decline in defensive solidity.
Alex Neil's side were excellent at the back earlier in the season, but they've conceded nine times in their last five league fixtures, allowing an average of 1.61 expected goals against (xGA) per game.
In contrast, QPR are flying, quashing their relegation fears after an impressive four-game winning streak that has seen them rise up to 13th place heading into the midweek fixtures.
They beat promotion contenders Watford, Brentford and Bournemouth in that spell, highlighting the good shape Mark Warburton has his team in.
The rate at which QPR are creating chances has been especially impressive in the Hoops' 2021 revival, averaging 1.45 xGF per game since the turn of the year. With Charlie Austin up top, they have the requisite quality to dispatch those chances
QPR do concede scoring opportunities at a similar rate, though, making BOTH TEAMS TO SCORE AND OVER 2.5 GOALS an intriguing price at 13/10.
This should be an entertaining match-up between two teams heading in opposite directions. QPR have the edge given their current form, but goals is the play here.
Score prediction: Preston 1-2 QPR (Sky Bet odds: 17/2)
Preston v QPR best bets
- 1pt Both Teams to Score and Over 2.5 Goals in match at 13/10 (William Hill)
Odds correct at 1500 GMT (23/02/21)
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