Nick's Picks from the Championship - 21/2/09
 
Another weekend, another tough fixture list to pick from in the Championship. Lots of ties featuring struggling teams at home to high-fliers means the value is there, but so is the risk. However, we don't know the meaning of the word risk at Premier Picks Central so let's get this party started.
 
Norwich v Burnley
Last week I outlined my reasons why I usually avoid making picks involving my team, then proceeded to accurately predict that Norwich would get nothing away at Preston. This week I took one look at the fixture list and the first thing that jumped out at me was that Burnley are widely being offered at 6/4. As a neutral I would be tempted by this offer. Burnley are on a very impressive run, fighting for the playoffs while Norwich have just dropped into the relegation zone with many fans talking about relegation as if it was a certainty. I still expect Carrow Road to be jumping at kick off, but if Burnley can silence that noise early it could be a long day for Bryan Gunn's team.
 
Burnley @ 6/4 Bet365
 
Southampton v Preston
Tricky one this. Preston are still riding high in the league, but they have been a little patchy of late, while Southampton haven't started to show faint signs of life under new management. That said, Southampton have conceded 2 goals in each of their last 5 matches. Preston have struggled a little on their travels, so I'm not sure if that run will continue for the Saints, but I still can't see Southampton getting their second home win of the season. The various handicap markets don't immediately seem to offer much value, but might be worth a look if you're looking to safeguard your investment. I'm recommending the draw at 12/5.
 
Draw @ 12/5 Coral
 
QPR v Ipswich
The late game on Sky sees two teams who both had high hopes coming into the season after a summer of spending by wealthy owners, but have not lived up to that promise. As the homestretch looms now is the time to make a push for the playoffs and both sides will be looking to launch that push here. QPR have been strong at home, while Ipswich have been inconsistent both home and away. Ipswich are without a few useful players and you have to think the growing clamour for Jim Magilton to be sacked is going to prove an unwelcome distraction. I'm taking QPR here.
 
QPR @ 21/20 Bet365
 
Treble pays 16/1

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