Tuesday night could see the League One champions crowned, with Portsmouth needing a win to wrap up the third tier title.
A singular point would also seal their promotion, but they’ll be thinking far higher than that and knowing that a win against Barnsley will confirm them as Champions, a strong showing is expected. Had Pompey beaten Bolton Wanderers last weekend, then they would’ve already been promoted, but a draw would mean that the promotion and potential title party was delayed.
John Mousinho’s side will be looking to make amends when welcoming Barnsley to Fratton Park and they’re overwhelming favourited given the Tykes’ recent form. With just a singular win in their last six matches it’s fair to say that any sort of automatic promotion chance that the Yorkshire side once had, has now well and truly gone.
Sat in fifth on 75 points, it looks highly likely that Neill Collins’ side will make the play-offs this season, but the job is not yet done with Oxford United, Blackpool and Lincoln City all looking to either break into the play-offs, or dislodge Barnsley from fifth.
Realistically, a single point from their three remaining matches could be enough to get them into the post-season but Collins will be hoping that his side can pick up a bit of form prior to the commencement of the season.
This may however not be the game for the Tykes to get back to winning ways, with the hosts currently on a 16 match unbeaten run.
Here’s how two of The Real EFL’s writing team see the game panning out…
“At this point of the season it’s very much Portsmouth’s title to lose and only an absolute miracle can stop them from taking the title on the way to the Championship. It’s hard to say they don’t deserve it and they’re certainly a team to look out for next season.
“This looks to be their night and after missing out on winning the title last weekend, John Mousinho will be looking to wrap the title up in front of the Fratton faithful and in turn allow the fans to enjoy the final few games of the season.
“Barnsley will want to put up a fight but their recent form speaks for itself. They’re arguably a team going in the wrong direction at the minute and whoever comes up against them if they do make the play-offs will fancy their chances.
“This one looks to only be going one way, and there could be quite the party in Portsmouth if so.”
Portsmouth 2-0 Barnsley
“Portsmouth have been by far the best team in League One this season and will finally secure their place in the Championship tonight. They will have been disappointed to have not beaten Bolton at the weekend, but it will be a fantastic occasion at Fratton Park.
“Barnsley will be hoping that they can be the party poopers here though, with themselves knowing that three points would secure a play-off place. However, the Tykes have been in funny form as of late. With three wins from their last 10, they are limping over the line.
“Pompey will prove to be far too strong for Neill Collins’ team. Expect them to produce an emphatic win in front of their own fans to trigger a night of wild celebrations.”
Portsmouth 3-0 Barnsley
